Effects of Nutrition on Human Hair Growth - Research Paper Example

In reference to this, the presence of protein in the body means that exist more raw materials to be made into hair. However, it does not mean that the more protein consumed translates to more hair or increased hair growth. Considering that proteins are made of amino acids, the absorption of these amino acids is crucial to the growth of hair; as for healthy hair, all amino acids which are essential for the body should be ingested and digested (The Educational Resource Center of Women’s International Pharmacy, 2003).

Moreover, of all the components that make up the hair follicle, lipids are a significant component. These lipids are the result of the breakdown of amino acids through enzymes that are protein in nature. The consumption of fatty substances that are made up of lipids determines the composition of the hair in the form of sebum; of which Sebum, in this case, is a lipid based substance that coats the hair and skin protecting it from the adverse effects of water. In turn, this prevents the growth of microorganisms in the hair and blocks the penetration of toxic substances into the body through the hair.

This way, intake of lipids affects the overall wellbeing of the body by creating a protective barrier in the hair (Dunnett, 2001). In addition, as was the case with proteins, lipids are crucial to hair growth, but supplementing intake of fatty acids does not necessarily translate to increased production of sebum and advanced protection and a glossy look of the hair. However, increases in sebum production do increase in some cases leading to improved hair appearance (Dunnett, 2001). In addition, consumption of fatty foods, lipids, contributes towards healthy hair in that they stop it from turning grey.

Intake of lipids strengthens the hair by adding to its thickness from the 90% that is made up of protein, collagen (Treasured Locks, 2005). Intake of iron in the body allows for proper circulation of blood around the body various organs; skin and hair included. This way, iron ensures that the follicles responsible for the production of hair are well supplied with nutrients such as protein and that oxygen is supplied in adequate amounts to hair follicles. Furthermore, electrons are transported in the blood with the help of the iron available in the blood; thus by consuming more iron, the hair benefits in that the body synthesises some of the crucial minerals necessary for the total wellbeing of the body and the hair, altogether.

In addition, iron works with other minerals that are not so essential such as molybdenum, in detoxifying the body from radicals and breaking down certain products (Arkworld International, 2005). Waste products in the body act as toxins to the body in that they affect the texture, colour and overall appeal of hair. The direct impact of silicon to the hair is seen in what it does to the skin. This concerns the hydrating effect the skin enjoys from adequate supplies of silicon through nutrition.

By the skin experiencing improved hydration, one’s hair, in turn, benefits from a fine texture emanating from the sebum that is held by the skin giving it a glossy feel and look (Piccardi and Patricia, 2009). In addition to this, the sebum produced from silicon helps in keeping the hair healthy by protecting it from infections, and the adverse effects felt from water. Moreover, silicon toughens hair by making it strong and, as well