Why do hair, skin and nails need amino acids?
Amino acids are organic compounds that make up proteins. And these in turn are part of the body’s own structures. Hair and nails, for example, are made up of keratin, and collagen is responsible for the elasticity and youthfulness of the skin. Without a sufficient amount of these building blocks, it is difficult for the body to produce the necessary proteins.
Amino acids are also necessary for digestion, tissue repair, energy and the normal functioning of all organs. They are also involved in the synthesis of hormones and act as neurotransmitters – substances that contribute to the transmission of nerve impulses.
Humans need 20 amino acids, some of which the body can synthesize itself. Nine of the essential amino acids can only be supplied to the body from outside, which is why they are referred to as essential. To obtain them, it is sufficient to eat a healthy diet and consume protein products every day – regardless of whether they are of animal or plant origin.
Proline
It is one of the main components of keratin and collagen, which is necessary not only for the elasticity of the skin, but also for the prevention of brittle nails and the normal functioning of joints and tendons. Among other things, proline strengthens the heart muscle and contributes to normal heart function.
The human body is able to produce this amino acid itself. However, sometimes this process can slow down, for example in cases of stress, depression, increased mental activity or a weakened immune system. In such cases, it is worth including foods containing gelatine in the diet, e.g. jelly and cold cuts, bone broth, Greek yogurt, meat, seaweed.
Leucine
One of the essential amino acids. Leucine helps to maintain the elasticity of the skin, to recover more quickly after physical activity and to control blood sugar levels, and promotes the growth of muscle mass.
The recommended daily dose of leucine is 39 milligrams per kilogram of body weight. This amount of the amino acid is easy to achieve with an adequate diet, as it is found in many foods. Meat (beef and pork), chicken, cottage cheese, tuna and eggs, for example, help to store leucine. If you do not eat foods of animal origin, you can include beans, tofu, tempeh or soy powder, brown rice, buckwheat, algae, pistachios, chia seeds, hemp seeds and linseed in your diet.
Threonine
A lack of threonine affects the quality of your smile, the health and youthfulness of your skin, as it is essential for the production of tooth enamel, collagen and elastin. This amino acid is also involved in fat metabolism and prevents fat from accumulating in the liver. Threonine is also useful in combating intestinal discomfort, mild depression and anxiety.
