Why your Hair Relies on Amino Acids and Proteins

  There is a simple relationship between amino acids and hair. Amino acids are the building blocks of all the proteins found in the body and hair is composed of keratin, a protein. It is this keratin which gives hair strands their strength.

If amino acids are insufficiently supplied to the cells of the hair follicles, the level of keratin production will drop or the keratin produced might lose most of its strength. Both of this will lead to reduced hair growth, discolored hair and hair strands that easily fall off.

While the body uses about 22 amino acids to build all the proteins in the body, those proteins go on to serve as enzymes, hormones, neurotransmitters, and form into tissues, muscles and organs.

Of these amino acids, 9 are considered essential because they are not synthesized in the body. These amino acids need to be ingested either from dietary sources or from supplements. While animal protein sources (meat and dairy products) contain all 9 amino acids, plant sources don’t usually contain all of them.

The hair is an example of the complexity and beauty of how amino acids form into proteins. They are not simply strung together. Rather, each protein is made from specific sequence of amino acids to form a superstructure.

This superstructure must then be folded into the exact 3-dimensional form for the protein to function at all or properly. For example, the set of amino acids making up keratin, the hair protein, must not only be pieced together in a perfect sequence but must also be folded up in the right way to fulfill its role.

Lastly, amino acids have different functions and they do not all perform the same ones.

Some amino acids are interrelated, though, and some functions are complimentary. For optimal hair growth and to reverse hair loss, the amino acids that provide the most benefits are discussed below.

Amino Acids for Hair Loss:

Arginine

The active form of arginine is L-arginine. It is a semi-essential amino acid that is normally synthesized in adequate levels in the body.

However, in distressed states due to disease conditions, stress and aging, the level of arginine will drop in the body and the amino acid is recommended for supplementation then.

Dietary sources of arginine includes nuts such as pecan, cashew, hazelnut, peanuts and coconuts; seeds such as those of sunflower and sesame; as well as wheat germ and flour, beef, fish, poultry and dairy products.

Arginine as a precursor of nitric oxide is essential for hair growth.

Hair growth is stimulated due to the properties of arginine increasing the amount of nitric oxide in the body to help potassium openings. This helps to improve blood supply to the roots of the hair and encourage hair growth.

Arginine also improves capillary microcirculation to the cells of the skin follicles through the vasodilation caused by the nitric oxide it produces in the body.

It is also known to strengthen hair shafts and accelerate the development of hair follicles.

Methionine

This is an essential amino acid, and a very strong anti-oxidant. It is an excellent source of sulfur, which is something that can prevent problems with the hair, nails and skin.

Basically, Methionine is a lipotropic, meaning that it aids in breaking down fats and keeping fat from building up in certain areas of the body, including the arteries.

It can prevent premature hair loss, as well as act as a detoxifying agent for the body.

Methionine’s greatest attribute is the sulfur in its chemical structure. It supplies sulfur to hair cells and connective tissues, thereby improving hair strength as well as normal growth and appearance of the hair.

Dietary sources of methionine include cereal grains, eggs, sesame seed, fish, meat and Brazil nuts.

Cysteine

This is one of the non-essential amino acids that our bodies are able to produce.

Cysteine is one of the many amino acids that are necessary for healthy hair growth. Adding more cysteine to your diet can increase the rate of hair growth substantially.

Cysteine also supplies sulfur to hair cells to improve hair strength. Cysteine is also known to bind to and transport minerals such as iron and zinc which are essential agents in the reversal of hair loss.

Dietary sources of cysteine include pork, chicken, sausage meat, milk, eggs, yogurt, ricotta, whey protein, cottage cheese, wheat germ, granola, oats, garlic, broccoli red pepper, onions and Brussels sprouts.

Cystine

This non-essential amino acid actually makes up approximately 10 to 14 percent of our skin and hair.

Cystine is formed from the disulfide bonding of two cysteine molecules. This bonding of two amino acids provides strength for hair shafts.

Since cysteine is formed from cysteine, it shares the same nutritional benefits and dietary sources as that amino acid.

It is important to have cysteine in our bodies, both for our overall health and for the health of our skin and hair. Cystine can be used to treat hair loss, and has been known to promote natural hair regrowth.

Tyrosine

Tyrosine is produced in the body from another amino acid, phenylalanine.

Dietary sources of tyrosine include fish, chicken, turkey, dairy products, peanuts, almonds, lima beans, pumpkin seeds and soy products. It is also available as a supplement.

This is another non-essential amino acid that the body naturally produces. This amino acid creates melanin, which is the pigment that colors our hair and skin.

We need to have tyrosine for our metabolism, as well as for adrenal, pituitary and thyroid glands.

Not only is tyrosine a good amino acid for hair loss, it can also be used to treat many other health problems, including insomnia, anxiety and depression.

Tyrosine is also known to contribute to reduction in stress hormone levels in the body. Since stress is a strong factor in hair loss, tyrosine can slow alopecia too by reducing stress.

Taurine

Taurine is an unusual amino acid because it contains a sulphonate group instead of a carboxyl group.

It is also synthesized in the body from cysteine but can also be ingested in food. Dietary sources of taurine include marine animals and meat. It is present in breast milk, and added to both energy drinks and infant formulas.

Taurine is the sulfur amino acid that is most abundant in humans, and can affect the health of organs and tissues. It is stored in the hair bulbs, and if there is not enough taurine in your system, it could result in thin, weak hair.

Apart from its benefits in the development and functioning of the central nervous system, and skeletal muscles, taurine has been shown in studies to maintain skin health and prevent the breakdown of hair follicles.

Hair Health & The 6 Amino Acids

Arginine - Stimulates hair growth through the vasodilatory effect of Nitrous oxide; strengthens hair shaft and stimulates hair follicles.

Methionine - Supplies needed sulfur to the hair for improved appearance and healthy growth.

Cysteine - Improves hair strength through the contribution of sulfur

Cystine - Promotes natural hair growth and strengthens hair shafts with its disulfide bond.

Tyrosine - Contributes melanine to the skin and hair; improves general health by reducing the levels of stress hormones.

Taurine - Provides sulfur for hair growth and appearance; prevents breakdown of hair follicles.   Kassie Kuehl is a health coach and consultant, in addition to being a professional stylist and specialist in natural hair color. Kassie opened Kasia Organic Salon, a chemical-free, natural and euphoric experience, located in Minneapolis, MN. Kasia believes that beautiful hair and skin is directly linked to beautiful health. Our hair and skin reflects the state of the body\'s health and looks its best when all cells in the skin\'s layers are properly nourished and hydrated, naturally. “Be in the know” and learn more about Kasia Organic Salon at the Author’s Site: www.kasiaorganicsalon.com Reference http://www.progressivehealth.com/amino-acids-hair-loss.htm

Simple Nutrition Tips for Healthier Hair

Because of today's fast pace lifestyles many people are concerned that they may not be obtaining the proper daily nutrition that will support healthy bodies, healthy skin and hair growth.

Invest in HIGH Quality Proteins

Since hair is made of keratin protein, a diet deficient in protein will show up in hair thinning and hair loss.  The first signs of this may be that your hair is dull and/or increased breakage.  Increase your intake of high-quality (hormone free and organic) protein-rich foods such as lean meats, fish, poultry, eggs, nuts, beans and seeds. Amino Acid Savvy

Women especially need quick and efficient complete chains of amino's for the body's.  There are eight essential amino acids included in “complete proteins,” which are necessary on a daily basis for overall healthy hair growth. Some complete proteins include meat, fish, poultry, yogurt and cheese, soybeans and eggs.

Consume Essential Fatty Acids

These nutrients are essential to shiny, vibrant, healthy hair and the cellular function necessary for hair growth, but they are not produced within the human body and must be consumed instead. The daily use of seeds and nuts and the cold-pressed oils from them, such as flax seed oil, on salads and in any dishes that do not require heating will bring the essential omega-6 fatty acids to your diet. Omega-3s, the other important fatty acids, are contained in oily fish and walnuts.

Moderate Liquids such as Caffeine and Carbonated drinks

What is "moderate?"    One drink a day is are best.  These drinks actually leach important vitamins and minerals from your body and provide not much of anything in return. They also take the place of healthier choices such as water,  herbal tea and fresh, all-natural fruit juices.

Drink Your H2O

The human body needs about 64 ounces of water (that’s eight 8-ounce glasses) to maintain healthy body systems, including hair growth. Are you getting enough? After urinating the first time upon waking up, your urine should be colorless and odorless for the remainder of the day. If it is a concentrated yellow or has a strong odor, increase your water intake.

Diets That Make You Crash

A diet very low in calories (fewer than 600 calories per day) deprives hair, as well as the rest of your body, of the necessary nutrients for health and growth and will result in breakage and dull hair.

Amino's and Dietary supplement used to combat hair loss:

By maintaining a well-balanced diet and eating protein-rich foods, hair thinning and hair loss can be reduced. If you’re concerned that your diet is lacking, consider taking a high quality dietary supplement. This will not only promote healthy hair, it will also support overall health and well-being.

L-lysine

The amino acid L-lysine plays a major role, as it stimulates collagen synthesis and thus leads to improvement of repair mechanisms. Furthermore, the roots need the essential amino acid to functional properly. This is why an appropriate supplementation with L-lysine in it can lead to a significant reduction of hair loss in affected persons.

L-cysteine

L-cysteine is an integral component of the keratin of the hair blocks. Several studies in which B vitamins and L-cysteine were taken, led to a significant improvement in androgenetic alopecia.

From L-cysteine, the body forms, together with the amino acids L-glycine and L-glutamine to form the strong antioxidant L-glutathione, which can protect sensitive hair roots against oxidative stress.

L-Methionine

L-methionine is the second, in addition to L-cysteine amino acid important for the formation of healthy hair. Methionine is also very sulphurous and just like L-cysteine is essential for the construction of procollagen. An L-methionine deficiency can lead to decreased formation of hair.

L-Arginine

L-arginine can stimulate blood circulation in the delicate skin tissue, thus ensuring that the roots are better supplied with micronutrients. L-arginine also supports the immune system and may thus help prevent disease-related hair loss.

Kassie Kuehl is a health coach and consultant, in addition to being a professional stylist and specialist in natural hair color. Kassie opened Kasia Organic Salon, a chemical-free, natural and euphoric experience, located in Minneapolis, MN. Kasia believes that beautiful hair and skin is directly linked to beautiful health. Our hair and skin reflects the state of the body\'s health and looks its best when all cells in the skin\'s layers are properly nourished and hydrated, naturally. “Be in the know” and learn more about Kasia Organic Salon at the Author’s Site: www.kasiaorganicsalon.com

Reference: http://aminoacidstudies.org

How Shampooing Your Hair Daily May NOT be Harmful After All?

You may be skeptical as I flip to the other side of the common hair myth about how shampooing causes hair loss, how it dries the hair and also how it depletes it of natural oils.  It's important to remember there are NO ABSOLUTE formula's, nor am I trying to "sell" more shampoo.

The fact is - we all have different lifestyles, time on our hands, DNA makeup, etc.   Let's skim over the other side of "washing your hair daily."

HYGEINE

Your hair and scalp frequent the same places you take your body and face – and while washing off the daily "grime" on your face is refreshing and cleansing, so too - it is for your scalp and loverly locks!

Even more so actually if you think about it – hair tends to brush directly against more surfaces. I.e. the back of underground, bus and taxi seats. Eeew..... I get grossed out just thinking about it.

HAIR GROWTH

Hair grows its best when your scalp is healthy – and daily shampooing helps keep it this way.  The QUALITY of shampoo is where I draw the line.  Especially if used daily.  Shampooing exfoliates dead skin cells away and helps to rid the scalp of any excess bacteria.  A large population tends to venture into dandruff if the hair is left too long between washes, due to the accumulation of cells. Dandruff is  unpleasant, but more importantly - is also known to cause or worsen hair loss.

MOISTURE

Shampooing does not dry your hair -AGAIN - THE QUALITY OF SHAMPOO AND IT'S INGREDIENTS MATTER.  Moisture is what hydrates your hair. The rule of measure I give to our guests at Kasia Organic Salon is - "How oily is your scalp?"  If you have an abundance of oils sitting on the top of your hair, it's clear that you've experienced greasy, limp, and smelly hair.  Would you forgo washing sweat off of your body to keep it ‘supple’? You use a moisturizing product for that! And it terms of washing your hair, you use the correct shampoo for your hair texture and then a conditioner for your hair texture, length and level of processing to smooth the cuticle, seal in the moisture and add shine.

HAIR LOSS

Shampooing daily does not cause hair loss.  I preface this with - "How fragile is your hair?  Are you going through chemo?  Are you on medications and taking on a lot of stress?  Well then -- you may be more fragile and proceed with caution...."

The action of massage actually helps to stimulate your scalp. What might be happening, however, is that you NOTICE more hair coming out when you shampoo due to it accumulating in the drain. Also, if you are used to washing your hair every 3 days, the hair that comes out when you shampoo will be 3 days worth of accumulation – not what you would see if you shampooed every day. As mentioned before, shampooing too infrequently can trigger dandruff and worsen hair loss.

Your LIfe - Your Time Your Expectations 

Believe me mamma' - I GET IT!  Some people are more than happy to wash their hair on a daily basis, while others just don’t have the time. This also depends on your current style, haircut, and how hard you sleep on those locks at night!  I caution you if you use tools such as curling irons and flat irons every day.  I believe every second or third day is more appropriate for this lifestyle.

TIP:  "Simply reset your hair with a round brush and blow dryer the second day or after a workout."

 Between washes you can use Kasia's REVIVE DRY SHAMPOO to get just 1-2 more days!   All Kasia Shampoo's and Conditioners are made specifically to help keep the hair & scalp clean, moisturized, rebalance of it's pH, shiny and healthy.  "First DO NO HARM!"  

Hope you enjoyed some of the flip side - let me know your thoughts!  What works best for you? 

Fall Fashion and When is the best time to do your Fall shopping?

Major trends are flooding the internet.  We are noticing tons of braided hairstyles, ponytails, polished buns, voluminous hair, bob haircuts ( faux bobs), messy tresses, hair accessories, and big curls.

The season to try something new.  

While switching up your everyday hairstyle is great for the new season, you can also visit our hair specialist and "richen' up" a new haircut or ammonia free hair-color.  Our team is here to assist you in changing your locks, refreshing your sprit, and switching up your your makeup colors ....can you feel the itch?

Action on the runway.....

  

Q.  When is the best time to do your Fall shopping? 

A.  Now.

Department stores and boutiques are celebrating the season ahead and we all know how hard it is to get our mind wrapped around wearing winter clothes when its 90 degrees outside!

Retailers know that and the prices for these 'pre-season' clothes are some of the best early on. Take advantage of the discount, here's how to prepare:

• Get inspired.

• Before heading to the store, look at what you wore! What did you wear to death last year? Does it need to be replaced?

• Shop with the intention of introducing a new color to your closet. You can start small with a necklace, shoe, scarf or sweater.

• Boots are a staple for the upcoming months - and can be pricey. Get them early in the season while they are on sale and have your size.

• If you are lacking scarves and shawls in your wardrobe, get them now in colors that look great on you. They are perfect for transitioning into colder weather and will make your existing wardrobe look fresh and new!

      

When will my hair stop shedding? Guide to Postpartum Hair Loss

Do you ever find yourself asking the question – “when will my hair stop shedding?” Increased shedding or hair loss, often occurring a few months after delivery, is a common postpartum condition known as telogen effluvium or telogen gravidarum, and

results from a disturbance in the normal hair growth cycle.

This condition  affects 40-50% of new mothers, this is a temporary condition that will usually correct itself within 6-12 months postpartum. Temporary or not, hair loss is often met with a significant amount of emotional distress and anxiety for women.

Who Doesn’t Love Hormones?

During pregnancy, a rise in hormones – specifically estrogen – prevents you from losing your hair by binding to local estrogen receptors on the hair follicles, which effects their growth and normal cycling. After pregnancy, your hormones return to normal levels, putting your body in a hypo-estrogen state. This causes you to lose your hair as the normal hair growth-shedding cycle is restored.

Hair loss or shedding in the months following delivery may also be associated with other conditions that change hormonal levels in the body.

Thyroid function – Hair loss is closely related to thyroid hormone levels (i.e. hyper/hypothyroid). It important to speak to your health care provider about testing your thyroid hormone levels if you feel like this may be a contributing factor.

Excess androgens – Natural steroids produced by the adrenal glands and ovaries that act like male hormones within the body. Higher levels of androgens are commonly associated with conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), acne, weight gain, and hirsuitism, and can promote increased hair shedding and loss.

Breastfeeding – Increased prolactin levels associated with breastfeeding can also lead to an increase in shedding and hair loss.

Stress – Physiological stressors like surgical trauma, postpartum hemorrhage, or high fever can result in increased levels of cortisol in the body and can lead to hair loss.

Birth Control – Changing or stopping the birth control pill can also lead to a drop in the sex hormones – estrogen and progesterone – thereby contributing to hair loss.

Supplement your diet with the following nutrients:

• Vitamin B complex
• Biotin (Possibly safe; orally and appropriately)
• Vitamin C
• Vitamin E (Likely safe if amount does not exceed the RDA; possibly safe if it does)
• Zinc (Likely safe when used orally and appropriately; likely unsafe when used orally in high doses)

Contact the Kasia Hair and Skin Health Specialist today!    We provide safe, effective and "beautiful health" alternatives for optimal beauty.  We also specialize in hair loss - and will walk the journey with you.......

Reference: Kristi Prince

Does Your Presence Speak Confidence? A MUST Read on Your Most Powerful Accessory!

First Impressions. Your Most Powerful Accessory?  Your FACE!

As we move about in this high tech world, your face is the reason why people still fly thousands of miles for relationship building and for in-person meetings. Why? Because face-to-face business is paramount in establishing relationships and maximizing productivity.

Think about it; in business you may communicate with someone online for weeks, maybe even months before you actually meet them. Once you do, it’s critical to put your best self forward in order to solidify and enhance the initial impression.

It’s important to feel confident in these physical relationships - so investing in your beauty persona is a wise move, not just for business,  but for every day communication.

Make a Statement! The Kasia Hair and Skin Health Experts…. suggest clients spend money on three main things; 1.) aesthetic/supportive shoes, 2.) fabulous underwear to feel powerful, 3.) hair color and skincare, with skincare and over-all hair style being at the top of that list. When is the last time you replaced your face?

From the Head – UP!  It’s your most powerful accessory. You use it every day – and our team is here to suggest the right natural products and services to keep your hair and skin looking its best!  Putting your best face forward holistically synergizes with your health, natural beauty, self-esteem and positive impressions to the world and who you uniquely are.

So the next time you think it’s selfish to invest in your hair and skin, think harder because a healthy, glowing skin coupled with a great smile are more powerful than you realize.  It IS your PRESENSE that people connect to.

The Kasia team has three price ranges to suite your fiscal needs.  Contact us with any questions you may have.

Autumn Skin Care Tips: Renew & Recover

 

Slough off the old, and bring on the new! To start the fall season with refreshed skin, slough off the summer residue to start the fall season with refreshed skin.  1.)  Treat yourself to at least one good facial treatment to start the season polished and smooth.  2.) Maintain the benefits by doing a gentle exfoliation on a weekly basis with Kasia ReNew AHA + Vitamin C Cleanser.

Moisturize! As we exfoliate, the skin needs the nourishment put back in.  A basic moisturizer that contains vitamins A, C, and E, plus anti-oxidants are great.   These ingredients neutralize the damaging toxins from the sun, and can help prevent further damage when summer is over.   EnMoist and AgeLess are the perfect day and evening moisture option for anti-aging.

Use Sunscreen The use of sunscreen is a very important and is the main cause of aging skin. Don’t skip this step!  Good Day Sunshine + Vitamin D Moisturizer is a great addition for your daily sun-care needs.

Internal - External Hydrate! Drinking at least 8 glasses of water per day will keep your skin moisturized and help eliminate toxins effectively. Have an extra glass of water for every glass of alcohol/cup of coffee you take to prevent possible dehydration. Try to get as much water as possible from fresh fruits and vegetables.

EAT to your beauty! Foods rich in Omega-3 essential fatty acids and antioxidants such as polyphones, Vitamins A, C and E can help reverse summer damage, prepare it for the

challenges it will face during winter and boost the skin’s immune system while preserving its quality and restoring its natural glow.

A comprehensive skin care system can help protect your skin's existing defenses to prevent further damage. Antioxidants and broad-spectrum sunscreen ingredients help protect, while moisturizers help minimize the initial signs of aging.

 

Pay HALF on your next HAIRCUT or CUSTOM EXPRESS ORGANIC FACIAL through September!

BYOB!  Bring Your Own Buddy & Receive 50% OFF!

 

As one of our valued Informed Beautes' … we are offering you 50% OFF your next HAIRCUT or EXPRESS CUSTOM ORGANIC FACIAL with our Kasia hair and skin specialist in September when both YOU and a NEW FRIEND schedule an appointment!

Your BFF will enjoy 50% OFF too!

It's time for an update - Spread the love and UPDATE your Fall look! 

 

*Other promotions or discounts not included.  Valid through September only. 

Fresh Almond Milk Benefits + 2 Yummy Recipes!

Almond milk is a healthy and yummy dairy-free milk alternative. It's my favorite!

When purchasing almond milk at the store,  look for organic and unsweetened. When learning a little bit more about food processing and packaging - most, if not all, of the almond milk available at the store is pasteurized. Pasteurization involves heating a product to a specific temperature for a period of time to kill enough pathogenic bacteria to make the product shelf stable. Refrigerated almond milk is pasteurized too. This destroys many heat sensitive vitamins and enzymes in the process and damages any healthy fats that were once present in almonds.

The best almond milk is the kind you make yourself! If you haven’t tried it, you’re missing out!  Homemade almond milk takes moments to prepare, and is much creamier, nuttier, and less "watered down" from a store bought product.

Almond milk is great on it’s own, but I love it in my coffee in the morning, or a afternoon smoothie.

Ingredients

Makes about 4 cups of almond milk

• 2 cup almonds (soaked overnight)
• 4 cups water
• seeds from 1 vanilla bean or ½ tsp vanilla extract
• 1 tsp cinnamon
• 2 dates

Directions

Add all ingredients to a blender and blend until smooth. Drain entire mixture through a nut milk bag or cheesecloth. Store in a glass jar. Play with the amounts of vanilla, cinnamon and dates if you want a little more flavor!

Banana and Carrot Almond Milk

INGREDIENTS

• 1 cup home-made almond milk
• 1 ripe banana
• 1/2 tsp. cinnamon
• 1 cup of freshly squeezed carrot/ginger juice (from about 1 lb carrots and a small knob of ginger)

INSTRUCTIONS

1. Blend the almond milk, banana and cinnamon.
2. Add the carrot ginger juice and stir to combine. Garnish with more cinnamon.

 Makes one large or two small drinks.

Banana Recipe:  http://betacyanin.com