Gray hair is a natural part of the aging process for most people and is largely due to genetics. People whose parents went gray at an early age may find their hair turning white early as well. However, gray hair can also be caused by illness, stress, vitamin deficiencies and other conditions. There is some evidence that vitamins---especially B vitamins---may offer some prevention against gray hair.
Folic Acid
Folic acid, or vitamin B9, is a vitamin that is necessary for healthy hair. Folic acid helps with hair follicle growth and cell division. According to the Huntington College of Health Sciences, gray hair is one of the signs of a folic acid deficiency. Also, para-aminobenzoic acid, or PABA, which is related to folic acid, has been shown in some studies to restore natural hair color in people who have gone gray, reports health-care-clinic.org. Fortified cereals are a good source of folic acid. It is also found in whole grains and some fruits and vegetables. Organ meats, spinach, grains and mushrooms are good sources of PABA.
Vitamin B12
Vitamin B12 regulates the formation of cells and promotes growth and longevity. A deficiency of this vitamin has been associated with premature gray hair. According to Dr. Alan Greene, a pediatrician who runs drgreene.com, vitamin B12 deficiency is the most common cause of gray hair in children. Vitamin B12 is found in chicken, fish, eggs and milk.
Pantothenic Acid
Pantothenic acid, also called vitamin B5, is another vitamin that has been linked to gray hair. Experiments in rats have shown that pantothenic acid deficiency caused their coats to turn gray. However, no studies have proven the same effects in humans. You can get pantothenic acid by eating eggs and organ meats---and it also is often added to fortified cereals.
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