Getting enough protein isn’t just key to building strong, toned muscles—it’s also super important to your hair’s health. And if you’ve been experiencing more hair loss lately, the first lifestyle habit you should examine is your intake of the essential nutrient.

No matter your diet, meeting your daily recommended protein intake (which is 8 grams of protein for every 20 pounds of body weight) by eating healthy foods—including plant-based choices like legumes, nuts, tofu, tempeh, quinoa, and chia seeds—is super important. When your body lacks the protein it needs, it rations its protein allotment by only sending it where you actually need it. Unfortunately, that doesn’t include your hair, since your luscious locks are more of a vanity thing than a keeping-your-body-functioning-properly thing, Fatima Cody Stanford, MD, MPH, told Women’s Health.

When your body lacks the protein it needs, it rations its protein allotment by only sending it where you actually need it. Unfortunately, that doesn’t include your hair.

Aside from getting enough protein, zinc is also important for keeping your hair strong. Dr. Stanford recommends taking a supplement to get enough of the mineral (after talking to your doc, of course!) and also loading up on foods like broccoli, spinach, avocado, and figs for healthy hair growth, as well as great skin and nails. This way, your body will be thriving—and you won’t clog your shower drain with stray strands.

Can collagen replace your post-workout protein powder? Also, here are some protein-packed snacks to keep you satisfied.