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List of amino acids that are essential for healthy skin, hair and nails

by Vladimir Levitsky

Arginine
The most important contribution of arginine to health and beauty is its involvement in the synthesis of nitric oxide. This compound helps to regenerate the skin and keep it young, and improves blood flow to the hair roots, stimulating their growth. Arginine also strengthens the immune system and digestion, protects the lungs, heart and blood vessels and helps control blood sugar levels by stimulating the production of insulin and glucagon.

The body of a healthy adult produces arginine in sufficient quantities, and this amino acid is absorbed with protein-containing foods. Arginine is also found in walnuts, peanuts and fish such as tilapia.

Lysine
Another member of collagen synthesis. A lysine deficiency can not only lead to a deterioration in body quality and premature skin ageing, but also to hair loss, reduced muscle mass and poor calcium absorption. This amino acid is also important for maintaining a good mood: its deficiency can be the cause of rapid fatigue, loss of appetite and energy and increased irritability.

The human body cannot synthesize lysine itself, and the recommended daily dose of this amino acid is 30 milligrams per kilogram. Lysine is found in meat, eggs, pulses, fish and seafood; it is also found in quinoa, Brussels sprouts and almonds.

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