Grey hair is a natural part of aging. By the age of 50, about half of Caucasians find that half their hair has turned grey (see Reference 3). Grey hair is caused by decreasing levels of melanin, which is a pigment that gives hair its color. This is an inevitable part of getting older, but consuming certain nutrients can slow the process.
Para-Aminobenzoic Acid
Para-Aminobenzoic acid (PABA) is one of the less commonly known members of the B vitamin family and it has proven to reduce grey hair. People with grey hair were given 200 mg of PABA after each meal. After a few months, 70 percent of the grey hair returned to its original color. Foods that contain PABA include: liver, kidney, whole grains and yeast (see Reference 1).
Copper
Because grey hair is caused by decreasing levels of melanin and having a lack of copper in your body leads to decreased production of melanin, it makes sense that a copper deficiency leads to more grey hair. Eat foods with a lot of copper such as crab, sunflower seeds, cashews, almonds and oysters (see Reference 3).
Vitamin B12
A deficiency of vitamin B12 is one of the most common reasons for premature grey hair. Because the body stores B12 for several years, it is uncommon to have a deficiency. But, if you are deficient, eat fish, meat and dairy products to increase your B12 intake (see Reference 4).
Zinc
Zinc also prevents hair from greying and can be found in wheat, yeast, oysters, egg yolks and pumpkin seeds (see Reference 1).
Biotin
Biotin is more commonly known for its ability to enhance hair growth and prevent hair loss. But some studies have found that it prevents hair from greying, as well. Biotin is found in egg yolks, animal liver, milk and yeast (see References 1& 2).
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