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Nutritional Deficiency And Gray Hair

Both men and women will experience the graying of hair at some point in their lives. While age does play a big part in going gray, some teens can experience premature graying. Heredity is often to blame, as is poor nutrition.

  1. Significance

    • Gray hair is the result of the loss of pigmentation that is produced by the hair's cell. As a person ages, less and less pigmentation is available and the hair turns white, gray or a combination: salt and pepper.

    Considerations

    • Thyroid conditions can cause premature graying. Smoking can also speed up the graying process. Anemia and poor circulation are other causes.

    Effects

    • Vitamin deficiencies can effect the graying of hair. A lack of B12, B6, niacin, biotin, Vitamin A, Vitamin C and Vitamin E can promote early gray growth.

    Potential

    • Copper is also used to treat gray hair. Zinc, iodine, and iron deficiencies can also come into play in early graying.

    Prevention/Solution

    • Dieting, fasting, eating disorders, and poor nutrition can all cause hair to turn gray. Lack of sleep, stress, anxiety, and too much sun exposure are other culprits.

    Potential

    • Keeping a healthy and vibrant head of hair can be attributed to healthy habits, healthy eating, and exercise. Avoid harsh chemicals and bleaches on the head and scalp, and use hair dryers sparingly to keep gray hair at bay.

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