How Plant Protein Helped My Hair Growth

My name is Pratibha Dholepuria, and I am in my 40s. Like many women, I began experiencing noticeable hair loss due to hormonal changes. It started subtly—seeing more hair in the shower drain, on my pillow, and in my hairbrush. Over time, the thinning became more pronounced, and my once thick, luscious hair began to lose its volume and shine. The hair loss took a toll on my self-esteem, and I felt desperate to find a solution.

Finally said hello to protein!!

I’ve always been conscious of maintaining a healthy diet, but I never paid much attention to my protein intake. However, after some research and consultation with a nutritionist, I learned that protein is crucial for hair health. Our hair is made up of a protein called keratin, and without adequate protein, hair growth can slow down, and hair strands can become weak and brittle.

A vegetarian’s grouse

Being a vegetarian, I decided to focus on increasing my intake of plant-based proteins. I started incorporating a variety of protein-rich plant foods into my diet, including legumes, nuts, seeds, tofu, tempeh, quinoa, and plant-based protein powders. I made it a point to include a source of protein in every meal, ensuring I was getting a well-rounded intake of essential amino acids.

No changes overnight but ONE day…

The changes didn’t happen overnight, but within a few months, I began to notice a difference. My hair started to feel stronger and healthier. The excessive shedding reduced significantly, and new hair growth became visible. Here’s how plant protein made a difference:

1. Stronger Hair Strands: The increased protein intake provided my body with the necessary building blocks to produce keratin, resulting in stronger and less brittle hair.

2. Reduced Hair Fall: As my body received adequate protein, my hair follicles became more robust, reducing hair fall and breakage.

3. Improved Hair Texture: My hair regained its natural shine and smooth texture. It felt more resilient and less prone to frizz and damage.

4. Visible New Growth: I started noticing new hair growth, particularly around my hairline and the crown of my head, which had thinned significantly.

How I use plant protein to kickstart life

Incorporating plant protein into my daily routine became a delightful and creative process. Here are some of my favorite protein-packed meals and snacks:

• Breakfast: A smoothie made with plant-based protein powder like the one from Gytree - I love the Cafe Mocha, almond milk, spinach, bananas, and chia seeds.

• Lunch: A quinoa salad with chickpeas, avocado, mixed greens, and a lemon-tahini dressing.

• Snacks: A handful of almonds or a homemade protein bar made with dates, nuts, and seeds. (sometimes I have another glass of the Gytree protein…but with one scoop instead of the usual serving of two)

• Dinner: Stir-fried tofu with a mix of colourful vegetables and a side of lentil soup.

Not just my hair…

Beyond hair health, increasing my protein intake had other positive effects on my overall well-being. I noticed improved muscle tone, better energy levels, and enhanced skin health. The holistic benefits of a protein-rich diet made me feel more vibrant and healthy.

I feel you !!

For anyone struggling with hair loss due to hormonal changes, I encourage you to look at your diet and consider the role of protein. Whether you are vegetarian, vegan, or omnivorous, ensuring you get enough protein can make a significant difference in your hair health. Plant-based proteins offer a versatile and nutritious way to boost your protein intake without relying on animal products.

My journey with hair loss and the discovery of the benefits of plant protein has been transformative. By focusing on my diet and embracing plant-based proteins, I have not only improved my hair health but also enhanced my overall well-being. I hope my story inspires others to explore the power of nutrition in addressing hair loss and other health concerns. Remember, healthy hair starts from within, and a balanced diet rich in protein can be a game-changer.