Effects
According to the National Institutes of Health (NIH) the typical person has five million hairs. Healthy hair will grow approximately half an inch per month. Protein is a major component of the organs, muscles, glands, skin and hair. Protein also exists in bodily fluids with the exception of urine and bile. It is vital for the growth of children and of fetuses during pregnancy. An adequate amount of protein in your diet is essential for cell repair as well as for the production of new cells.
Causes
Insufficient amounts of protein can contribute to hair loss. According to the Dermatology Online Journal, (DOJ) the hair follicle is one of a handful of tissues in the human body that contain stem cells. The root of the hair is contained in the follicle. The DOJ suggests that certain proteins stimulate papilla cells (small lumps of tissue at the root of each hair) and accelerates hair growth.
According to Skincarephysicians.com, when the body is protein deficient, it rations its limited supply of protein by moving hair growth into a stagnant state. If a protein shortage persists, hair loss is usually visible within a couple of months. Normal hair growth can resume when the person gets an adequate amount of protein.
Treatment
The easiest way to prevent hair loss and encourage hair growth is by eating a nutritionally balanced diet. Foods rich in protein include meat, poultry, fish, nuts, eggs, milk, cheese, yogurt and soybeans. A healthy diet contributes not only to the condition of your hair but your overall health.
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