Hair follicles regulate the continuous three phases of hair growth: anagen (active growth), catagen (degeneration),

and telogen (shedding). In normal hair cycles, about 90% of hairs are in anagen phase and 5-10% are in telogen

phase. An imbalance of these two phases results in hair loss. In addition, disruption of normal hair growth may

occur due to nutritional deficiencies, endocrine imbalances, and/or sudden changes in routine. Several clinical

studies have shown that supplementation with a combination of taurine (150 mg), zinc (10 mg), grape seed extract

(150 mg), and green tea extract (375 mg) helped maintain hair balance. This was marked by an increase in the

anagen rate and decrease in the telogen rate after 12 weeks, which resulted in decreased loss and increased hair

density. The combination also improved hair quality by increasing hair mass and volume.

Free radicals caused by oxidative stress can promote cellular damage and induce the secretion of transforming

growth factor (TGF)-ß1 to inhibit the growth of hair matrix epithelial cells. Taurine is synthesized in the body from

amino acids and has been shown to promote hair survival by protecting hair follicles against TGF- ß1 in vitro. Zinc

is an essential trace mineral that requires daily intake, as it cannot be stored long-term in the body. Among its

many biological functions, zinc provides support against oxidative stress and contributes to factors involved in the

regulation of hair growth.

Polyphenolic compounds possess a multitude of health benefits, and their ability to promote hair growth and

protection has been evidenced in various studies. Grape seed extract (GSE) provides a unique profile of

proanthocyanidins and other polyphenols that support blood microcirculation. Proanthocyanidins from GSE were

shown in preclinical research to promote proliferation of hair follicle cells in vitro and play a role in promoting the

transition from telogen phase to anagen phase in vivo. The polyphenolic compounds in green tea are known as

catechins. Green tea extracts were shown to support hair regrowth compared to the control group in vivo.

Preliminary data also suggest that epigallocatechin-3-gallate (EGCG), a unique catechin, may promote hair growth

by maintaining dermal cell viability.

Pea sprouts are rich in isoflavones, polyphenolic secondary plant metabolites that possess health-promoting

properties. AnaGainTM Nu is a water-soluble pea sprout (Pisum sativum) extract developed to support hair growth

cycle balance. In a human pilot study, individuals who supplemented with 100 mg of AnaGainTM Nu had a

significant hair loss reduction of 34% and improved hair density after two months. Concurrent enhancement of

noggin and fibroblast growth factor 7 (FGF7) gene expression suggest involvement of these proteins in the

mechanism of action. Noggin is a protein required for the induction of hair follicle growth phase, while FGF7 is a

signaling factor required for hair development.