Preventing Grey Hair Through Diet: Healthy Guide
May 03, 2023 | By Queenie
Preventing Grey Hair Through Diet: A Comprehensive Guide
As we age, our hair loses its natural color and turns grey. Although this is a natural part of the aging process, some people experience premature greying of hair. Premature graying can occur due to various factors, including genetics, stress, and nutrient deficiencies.
While there is no guaranteed way to prevent grey hair at a young age, modifying your diet may help slow down the process. This article will discuss some dietary modifications that may help prevent grey hair.
How to Modify Your Diet to Prevent Grey Hair
Vitamins and minerals play an essential role in maintaining healthy hair. Certain nutrients help slow down the greying process since they have anti aging properties. Here are some vitamins and minerals that you should include in your healthy diet too:
Vitamin B12
Vitamin b12 plays a critical role in producing red blood cells and maintaining healthy hair. A deficiency in vitamin B12 may lead to premature greying. It's important to note that while Vitamin B12 is essential for hair health, it is not produced by the body and must be obtained through diet or supplementation. Foods that are high in vitamin B12 include the following:
- Eggs
- Red meat
- Seafood
- Curry leaves
- Dairy products
- Fortified cereals
Vitamin B9 (Folate)
Folate, also known as vitamin B9, is essential for the healthy growth of cells, including cells in the hair follicles. This vitamin is involved in DNA synthesis and cell division, which is necessary for healthy hair follicles and scalp tissue growth and maintenance. Good sources of folate include:
- Beans
- Citrus fruits
- Fortified grains
- Dark leafy greens
Copper
Copper plays a role in melanin production, the pigment that gives hair pigmentation. Adequate copper intake can help to improve the strength and resilience of hair and scalp tissue. Not enough copper in your diet may contribute to your hair turning gray early. Eat more food rich in copper, such as:
- Nuts
- Seafood
- Chia seeds
- Organ meats such as beef liver
Zinc
Zinc is another essential mineral that plays a role in the production of melanin. This mineral is essential for the growth and repair of hair tissue. It helps to support the structure of hair follicles and promote healthy hair growth. Zinc deficiency in your daily diet may lead to premature greying due to less melanin. Foods high in zinc include:
- Beef
- Oysters
- Spinach
- Pumpkin seeds