Amino Acids for African-American Hair Growth

Amino Acids For Long Locks

Hair can grow long with the proper care. Black hair has special needs due to its unique structure. An adequate supply of amino acids ensures black hair will retain length and health.

Hair Structure

Hair is composed of protein, particularly keratin. Proteins are larger sets of smaller amino acids, arranged in a chained sequence structure. African-American hair is composed of these same amino acids. It differs from other hair types due to its arrangement. African-American hair is generally more curly, making it more dry and prone to breakage.

Function

Amino acids are used to construct proteins. Proteins are essential to life, being used throughout the body's systems. Some proteins kick start chemical reactions and are called catalysts. Other proteins comprise the tissue that helps transmit nerve impulses. Keratin is the protein making up hair. Symptoms of inadequate protein intake can result in hair loss.

Sources

A diet should contain sufficient amounts of proteins in order to have enough amino acids for healthy hair. Great sources of protein are red meat, although there are also higher levels of fats. Healthier protein can be found in fish like salmon and mackerel, beans, nuts, lentils, soy beans and soy products. Daily protein intake should be between 0.8 gram and 1 gram per pound of body weight.

References

• Texas Collaborative: Chemical Composition of Hair
• Clackamas Community College: Structural Proteins
• Treasured Locks: African-American Hair Structure
• W. H. Freeman and Company: Protein Structure and Function
• American Academy of Dermatology: What Causes Hair Loss