You've probably heard someone bemoaning the discovery of her first grey hair. Such a find can be a landmark moment in life, providing evidence of aging. Genetics contributes to grey hair's development as well. But it's also possible that poor nutrition is accelerating your development of grey hair.
Greying Process
Hair follicles contain pigment cells. These pigment cells produce melanin, a chemical that gives your hair its color. Melanin is also the coloring agent in your skin. Pigment cells gradually die out as you age, eliminating melanin from the hair and resulting in strands that are grey or white. This is a gradual process that happens over the course of years, in some cases, although many health factors affect when and how quickly hair color fades.
Protein
Your hair is composed of keratin, a protein produced in the body. This protein is formed from the amino acids obtained through dietary protein sources. You need to eat protein to produce keratin and maintain your hair follicles. According to Good Housekeeping, protein deficiencies can result in a loss of hair color.
Other Nutrients
Protein isn't the only nutrient that affects your hair. A deficiency of vitamin B-12 can lead to greying hair, according to CNN.com. This vitamin is found in protein-rich animal products like fish, meat, milk and eggs. A doctor's blood test can reveal whether you have a B-12 deficiency contributing to your greying hair. Many of these foods also contain iron to bolster hair health.
Considerations
You can also get essential nutrients through multivitamins, but the body best processes the nutrients when they are consumed in natural sources. If you experience greying hair and suspect a nutritional deficiency, talk to a doctor. It can be difficult to determine the cause of greying hair on your own, and your doctor will be able to examine your overall health and identify other concerns related to a possible deficiency. Your doctor will also be able to advise you on the proper course of action.
References
- Daily Mail; It's Official, Stress Really Does Make Your Hair Go Grey; Cher Thornhill; June 2009
- Library of Congress: Everyday Mysteries: Why Does Hair Turn Gray?
- KidsHealth: Why Does Hair Turn Gray?
- Good Housekeeping; Top 10 Foods for Healthy Hair; Hilary Parker
- CNN.com; I Noticed a Strand of Gray Hair on My Child; Dr. Jennifer Shu; May 2009
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