Natural From Within: The Low Down On Sugar and Your Scalp

This detox/rejuvenation has really opened up my eyes to the specific ways in which certain food groups and your overall diet can affect your health.  Yesterday Felicia sent me a video she made with the super knowledgeable trichologist Dr. Kari about the effect sugar can have on your body.  And we’re not talking sugar that comes from some honey infused conditioner or a curling souffle, we’re talking sugar from cookies, frappucinos, snickers,  blueberry pancakes with whipped cream, OH and that red velvet cake you couldn’t say no to.  We all know that sugar can cause cavities and weight gain, but what you see in this video might surprise you!

WOW!  So your itchy flaky scalp might be directly related to how much sugary food you’re eating!  If you have an itchy scalp an easy way to see if sugar’s the culprit is to STOP EATING IT!  I’ve been 2.5 weeks sugar free and as a gal with the most major sweet tooth, I never thought I’d be able to do it.  Here are a couple tips for kicking the sugar and maintaining a healthy scalp:

• Instead of adding sugar to your tea, cereal, oatmeal or whatever you’re sweetening, try agave nectar!  I’ve really been enjoying the subtle sweetness and unique flavor it brings to the flavor.
• Opt for fruits over candy and cookies.  The goal is to avoid processed sugar, but those found naturally are generally a-ok to keep around.  Eat ‘em plain, chop em up, or try em dried!  My faves are apples, oranges, dried apricots, grapes, dried mango.  Delish snacks all around!
• Massage your scalp with a healthy oil or butter!  If you’re prone to dry scalp, keep it moisturized and give yourself a little treat while your at it by using your finger tips to massage your scalp.
• As Dr. Kari and Felicia said, “H2O: GET YOU SOME!”  For serious!  Nothing moisturizes like good ol’ water.  And if you want some sweetness and flavor with your water, try tossing in some slices of lemon, cucumber, or sprigs of mint for a delightfully refreshing, natural flavor.  In fact, make a big bottle or container of it and keep it cold in the fridge for whenever you’re ready!