Why Do We Go Grey? Possible Nutritional Deficiencies That Contribute to Premature Greying

Grey hair is a natural part of aging, but some individuals experience premature greying of hair. This occurs when our hair starts to lose its pigment and turns grey or white earlier than it should.

While there are some factors that contribute to this phenomenon that we cannot control, it is believed that certain nutritional deficiencies can also lead to premature greying. By understanding the relationship between premature greying and nutrition, we can make informed decisions on the foods we eat to help promote healthy hair.

Iron Deficiency: Iron plays a crucial role in the proper functioning of our hair follicles. When we don’t have enough iron in our system, our hair can become weak and brittle. This can result in premature greying, as well as hair loss. Foods that are rich in iron include dark leafy greens, red meat, lentils, beans, and fortified cereals.

Vitamin D Deficiency: Vitamin D is essential for the absorption of calcium and the development of healthy bones, which includes our hair follicles. Without enough Vitamin D, our hair can become thin and grey. Foods that are rich in Vitamin D include fatty fish, mushrooms, and dairy products. You can also get Vitamin D from exposure to natural sunlight for 20-30 minutes a day.

Vitamin B12 Deficiency: Vitamin B12 is important for the proper functioning of our nervous system and red blood cell development. It is also essential for healthy hair growth. Without enough Vitamin B12, our hair can become thin and grey. Foods that are rich in Vitamin B12 include shellfish, fish, red meat, eggs, and fortified cereals.

Copper Deficiency: Copper is an essential mineral that helps our body produce melanin, which gives our hair its color. Without enough copper in our system, our hair can become brittle and grey. Foods that are rich in copper include nuts, legumes, whole grains, and leafy greens.

Zinc Deficiency: Zinc is an essential mineral that is involved in the formation of healthy hair cells. Without sufficient zinc, our hair can become weak and grey. Foods that are rich in Zinc include oysters, beef, pumpkin seeds, and spinach.

Premature greying can be a result of several factors, but nutrition plays a big part in maintaining healthy hair. In this blog, we’ve discussed some of the key nutritional deficiencies that can lead to premature greying: iron, Vitamin D, Vitamin B12, copper, and zinc.

By ensuring we are incorporating foods rich in these nutrients into our diets, we can help promote healthy hair and potentially delay the onset of premature greying.

Remember, it’s never too late to start eating for healthy hair – so let’s get cooking!