Hair greying is related to aging. It might be unpreventable, but it can be delayed. It has much to do with genetics. However, lifestyle choices also play a significant role.
There are known cases when people could stop hair greying and even partially reverse it. Similarly, some individuals develop the condition at quite an advanced age.
One can slow down the process by using the right kind of supplements, dietary choices, and hair care.
Lifestyle Changes and Hair Care
Studies show that regular stress is one of the leading causes of early hair greying. This is because stress results in a greater release of norepinephrine into the follicle. It is not rare for people to experience significantly faster hair greying after periods of stress. So, begin with stress management. Some of the ways could be meditating a few times a day and breathing exercises multiple times a day. Here, it is vital to understand that such measures only work when practiced consistently and for a long time.
Next, consider hair care measures that are also relaxing, such as scalp massage. This reduces stress and increases scalp blood flow.
Additionally, changing your shampoo might also help. Choose hair care products that are free of harsh chemicals.
Dietary Secrets to Combat Grey Hair
Next, consider certain dietary changes known to reduce hair greying. Start by focusing on increasing your intake of healthy fats, especially omega-3 fatty acids. Omega-3 fatty acids have many other benefits. So, increase fatty fish consumption (consume thrice weekly) and consume flaxseeds and walnuts. Seeds and nuts also contain other micronutrients that prevent hair greying.
Increasing protein intake is another way of promoting hair growth and preventing hair greying. Human hair is mainly made of proteins. So, increase your intake of lean proteins like fish, poultry, and legumes.
Among various foods, eggs are especially worth mentioning. Eggs are an excellent source of high-quality proteins, fats, vitamin Bs, biotin, and minerals. Always consume eggs along with yolk. Some people worry about egg yolkās cholesterol content. However, that is not the reason for concern, and two boiled eggs a day are safe and good.
Studies show that iron deficiency can also lead to early hair greying. The iron requirement is best met through diet. Heme-iron present in animal products like red meat is especially highly bioavailable. Another iron food source to consider is lentils.
When making dietary changes, also consider boosting dietary intake of antioxidants. It is generally good to increase the intake of colorful fruits and vegetables. Higher antioxidant intake is associated with a range of health benefits, like slower aging, better heart health, and many more.
Supplements for Hair Health
Dietary and lifestyle changes are the primary ways to prevent hair greying. However, supplementing these efforts with food supplements is a good idea.
With aging, people need higher amounts of micronutrients. However, with aging, the body also starts losing its ability to absorb certain nutrients. Thus, aging poses specific challenges in meeting the requirements of specific nutrients. This underlines the importance of using health supplements.
When it comes to vitamins and supplements, one should especially consider supplements rich in biotin, vitamin B12, and folic acid. These vitamins are proven to boost hair growth. Further, studies show that those living with premature hair greying are more likely to be living with a deficiency of these vitamins.
These vitamins have a range of health benefits. Vitamin B-complex, including B12 and folic acid, are known to reduce inflammation, enhance energy production and DNA damage, and thus help counter aging. Biotin also belongs to group B, but this vitamin is not always present in B-complex supplements. Biotin is especially good for hair and nail health.
Among minerals, one should consider supplementing zinc, selenium, and copper, as these minerals are especially known to help slow down premature hair greying.
Among fat-soluble vitamins, consider vitamin D. Vitamin D deficiency is widespread these days, especially among adults. Its deficiency increases the risk of hormonal issues and even metabolic disorders. However, more importantly, it is vital to understand that vitamin D plays a vital role in hair and skin pigmentation.
Among fat-soluble vitamins, vitamin E is also good to consider. However, one should be careful with vitamin E and only supplement intermittently. It is vital to understand that vitamin E hypervitaminosis is also harmful. However, in adequate amounts, it is good for skin, hair, and heart health and is among the most potent antioxidants.
The Bottom Line
Hair greying occurs due to aging. Genetics also plays an important role in the process. It might not be completely unpreventable, but one can significantly slow down hair greying. There are many individuals who can successfully stop hair greying, and some even reverse it through lifestyle interventions.
One might consider various hair care methods for slowing hair greying, like protective styling, conditioning, and scalp massage. However, the greater focus for preventing hair greying must be on nutrition therapy. Specific dietary changes and health supplements can help slow down hair greying.
Finally, one must remember that any effort focused on preventing or reversing hair greying must be prolonged and consistent. One must remember that hairs grow slowly. Thus, it would take months, and even a couple of years, to see the results of the consistent efforts.
