How Protein Helps Healthy Hair Growth
A majority of the population does not get the recommended amount of protein necessary for a healthy body. Getting adequiate protein is necessary for your body tissues and healthy hair growth.
Why is protein important for hair growth? It helps to build and repair the hair shaft, which is made up of a protein called keratin. When a person doesn't get enough protein in their diet, their hair may become weak, brittle, and prone to breakage, which can slow down the growth of new hair. Studies show, the two main causes of hairloss are; dietary & hereditary causes or genetics (autoimmne diseases, hormonal fluctuations, thyroid disease & medical treatments).
In order for your hair to grow, you need protein, more specifically the building blocks of protein called amino acids. Your body can produce 11 of the 20 aminos acids, but you need to get the remaining 9 essential amino acids from food. If your diet is low on complete proteins, which include the 9 essential amino acids, you can experience hair loss. When you take in protein, your body goes through a systematic process of using it. Your body's priority for protein is to support muscle tissue. So if you're not getting enough to support all the body's requirements, it will start to ration what protein you do ingest, for essential muscle function over hair growth and meatendance. This leads to weak, thin and brittle hair and in some cases, hair loss.
Protein also supports the production of keratinocytes, the cells that produce keratin and help to build and repair the hair shaft. These cells are found in the outer layer of the skin including the scalp. They produce and secrete keratin, which makes up the hair shaft and produce mature, keratin-rich hair fibers.This process requires a steady supply of amino acids, which you get from protein. Protein also supports healthy blood flow and nutrient delivery to the scalp with is necessary for healthy hair growth.
While protein plays a major role with hair growth, it's always important to have a balanced diet that supports your body's needs.The kind of protein you consume matters. To support hair growth, ensure you're getting enough protein per day and getting premium protein that can be absorbed efficiently. Consume lean meats, whole grains, eggs, nuts and clean ingredient sourced, pasture-fed protein shakes.