Your hair is comprised mostly of protein made up of long chains of amino acid, and inside that protein, a pigment called melanin gives your hair its color. Eumelanin, the most common type of melanin, results in brown or black hair color, and phaeomelanin gives blondes and redheads their color. The melanin collects near the hair bulb and forms pigment protein bundles called melanosomes. The type, size and distribution of these melanosomes determine the color and shade of hair. Usually between the ages of 28 and 40 years old, a person will begin to see gray hairs. This occurs as the body produces less and less of the melanin needed to color the hair. Graying hair is a natural part of human aging that you cannot avoid, but certain vitamins have been shown to aid the body in the production of melanin and may help delay graying hair.
Biotin
This vitamin helps the body produce keratin, the protein making up most of your hair's chemical composition. In addition to slowing the loss of melanin that results in graying hair, biotin improves hair growth and strength. It may also prevent hair loss. You can take biotin as an oral supplement or add more whole grains, egg yolks, rice and milk to your diet to get it naturally.
Pantothenic Acid
Also known as vitamin B5, pantothenic acid prevents the loss of melanin that causes graying hair. It may also prevent hair loss. Food sources of pantothenic acid include whole grains, egg yolks, brewer's yeast and organ meats. A basic multivitamin will also contain plenty of vitamin B5.
Vitamin B6
This power-packed vitamin assists the body in the production of melanin and prevents hair loss. Foods rich in vitamin B6 include whole grains, egg yolks, vegetables, brewer's yeast and organ meats. Multivitamins also contain vitamin B6.
Other Vitamins
Certain vitamins play a crucial role in maintaining a healthy scalp and nourishing the hair follicles where melanin is produced. While they don't directly prevent graying hair, they are important for the overall health of your hair and may combat graying hair caused by stress or illness.
Inositol stabilizes cell membranes in the hair follicles and promotes the growth of healthy hair. Food sources include whole grains, liver and citrus fruits.
Niacin and vitamin E increase blood circulation to the scalp and encourage healthy hair growth. Food sources for niacin include wheat germ, fish and poultry. Vitamin E food sources include leafy green vegetables, soybeans, seeds and nuts.
Important Warning about Oral Supplements
Certain vitamins can cause harmful side effects if too much is ingested. If you choose to take oral supplements selectively, as opposed to a general multivitamin, talk to your doctor first, and ask him to help you determine the right dosage to fit your diet and lifestyle.
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