Well, we’re all too gullible to fall for marketing campaigns that hail a particular product as a hair-boosting miracle. But deep inside we know that these products may not work for us and may not give long and strong hair. We also know that maybe the problem is in our diet. Most of us are not eating a healthy diet as we should – thanks to our hectic, and processed-food-driven lifestyles.
So, let’s all admit we know where the problem is, so let’s mark Step 1, tick. Now the next step is to correct the diet.
Having said that, what do you think is essential for hair growth? You know you need vitamin E, iron and zinc to grow strong and luscious hair locks. But there’s one vitamin that is missing from this list. We’re talking about amino acids. Heard about it? You must have. They’re basically proteins, which are the building blocks of hair.
So, let’s understand the pivotal role amino acids play in hair growth and good hair health. Keep reading.
What are amino acids?
Amino acids are organic compounds that serve as the building blocks of proteins. Proteins when consumed through diets or supplements are broken down into amino acids. Amino acids then create as well as repair tissues.
Proteins are composed of 22 different amino acids. These amino acids are categorised into three groups.
Essential amino acids:
There are 9 essential amino acids that cannot be produced by your body. So, they have to be taken externally, through diet. These amino acids include threonine, tryptophan, leucine, lysine, histidine, isoleucine, methionine, phenylalanine, and valine.
Nonessential amino acids:
These types of amino acids can be produced by your body through synthesising essential amino acids consumed through diet.
Conditional amino acids:
These types of amino acids aren’t essential but can become so in certain situations, such as when you are unwell or in a period of growth.
Contrary to what the marketing campaigns of the supplement industry tell you, you don’t require a precise amount of each amino acid with every meal. However, it’s best to eat a balanced diet consisting of these nutrients.
The goodness of amino acids
Amino acids play a crucial role in various functions and processes within your body. These include muscle growth, tissue maintenance and production of some hormones. Additionally, the body may use amino acids as fuel in some circumstances, especially when you exercise.
Benefits of amino acids in hair growth
Helps fight damage
Damaged hair looks brittle and lifeless. The causes of damaged hair can be many, starting from pollution to exposure to heat and chemicals. This is where amino acids come in as they can help restore your hair and repair the damage. They can even make your hair stronger, and improve the colour.
Helps with hair loss
Do you find lumps of hair in your hand every time you comb? If yes, you would understand how distressing hair fall can be. Amino acids can come to your rescue by strengthening your hair and enhancing its elasticity especially if you have low porosity hair.
Hydrates hair
Certain amino acids enhance your hair’s ability to seep in and hold moisture. Dryer hair is more vulnerable to breakage and frizz, making it look dull. Amino acids help increase the moisture and improve hair growth.
Other benefits:
Apart from promoting hair health and growth, amino acids have other benefits too. Here are a few of them:
Neurotransmitter production:
The essential amino acid phenylalanine serves as a significant precursor for dopamine, tyrosine, norepinephrine and epinephrine. These neurotransmitters regulate your mood, behaviour and cognitive function. Hence, a diet rich in amino acids can do wonders for your mental health by boosting your mood.
Repairs skin and connective tissues:
Want clear and healthy skin? A diet rich in amino acids can help you. Threonine, one of the many amino acids, plays an integral role in the repair of connective tissues that boost skin health.
Growth hormone and histamine production.
One amino acid called leucine is responsible for regulating the production of growth hormones. Likewise, another amino acid called histidine is integral in aiding digestion, sexual health and maintaining sleep-wake cycle.
Closing thoughts
So, now you know how amino acids are crucial for healthy hair. They’re the building blocks that keep your locks looking fabulous. So, don’t forget to munch a mix of protein-packed goodies to give your hair the love it needs. Your tresses will thank you for it, and you’ll be rocking those good hair days in no time!
