There are different types of causes that lead to hair loss. Genetics is the most common factor and comes in the form of androgenic alopecia. It is characterised by a gradual progression of a receding hairline from the temporal, frontal central and vertex regions of the scalp. This continues until the only hair that is left is found on the lower portions at the sides and back of the head. Stress is also one of the most common causes for hair loss. In fact, it is the reason why most of the other causes occur. Examples of stress related hair loss conditions are telogen effluvium, trichotillomania and alopecia areata. This is temporary however, and will cease as soon as the cause of the stress stops as well.
Taurine on the other hand, has been reputed to help treat hair loss. It is not a cause but a supposed remedy. Taurine is an amino acid and acts as a building block for the proteins that make up hair, among one of its functions. Keratin is such a protein and is aided by amino acids to establish strong and healthy hair. A sharp decrease in amino acid levels in the body would result in a subsequent decline in the production of keratin. Without keratin and the amino acids necessary with which to build on, hair will gradually lose its color and ability to grow. This would in turn, have a final effect of hair loss.
Taurine is essential to promote hair growth and protect against damaging influences on the hair follicle. This amino acid can be found in breast milk, meat and fish. The body also synthesizes cysteine to naturally produce taurine. It is the most abundant sulfur amino acid that is stored in humans and can be found in the hair bulbs. The lack of taurine will result in weak, wispy hair that is easier to be lost. This amino acid is important for the proper functioning and development of the skeletal muscles and the central nervous system. It is important to keep its levels up to ensure continued proper skeletal and nervous system functions but also to maintain good skin and healthy hair follicles.
Taking supplements might be proper if there is a confirmed lack of amino acid levels in the body. This can be done in the form of vitamin a, c, e or biotin. It should be stressed however, that there must be a confirmatory finding that it is indeed the lack of taurine or vitamin deficiency in the body that is causing the hair loss. As discussed previously, hair loss can be attributed to a different range of factors. Trying to treat it directly with taurine or vitamin supplements might not address the condition adequately or at all. All it would do is increase already normal levels of taurine or other vitamins in the body. It might even be expelled because it does not need it in the system.
The situation can become worse in cases of a vitamin oversupply or an overdose in taurine. Side effects of too much taurine in the body may include: hypoglycemia, abnormal heart rate or rhythm, mania, digestive problems, dehydration, brain and nervous system damage. These are the factors that should be considered before proceeding to take a taurine supplement to treat hair loss.
