The Connection Between Gray Hair, Oxidative Stress, and Melanin Production
Melanin is what gives our skin, hair, eyes, and organs their color. It is also a known antioxidant and has anti-inflammatory, radioprotective, and immunomodulatory qualities. It also assists in lowering blood sugar and protecting the gastrointestinal system and the liver.Gray, silver, or white hair results when melanin production slows down. This normally occurs gradually over several decades in the middle to later years of life.
With premature gray hair, high levels of oxidative stress from reactive oxygen and hydroxyl radicals adversely impact melanin-producing cells called melanocytes. Simply put, premature gray hair is essentially evidence of an accelerated aging process.
Other Factors That Lead to Premature Gray Hair
A recent study of Indian persons aged 25 and younger found a connection between premature gray hair and low levels of vitamin B12, HDL (“good”) cholesterol, and serum ferritin. A study of young people, 20 years old and younger who had premature gray hair showed low levels of iron, copper, and zinc.Premature Gray Hair Represents a Higher Risk for Heart Disease and Osteoporosis
A study published in the journal Internal Medicine evaluated over 200 patients with premature gray hair but no history of cardiovascular disease. Premature gray hair was found to be associated with increased Carotid Intima-Media Thickness (CIMT), one of the markers of a higher risk of heart disease.No doubt, ensuring ideal nutrition (especially early in life) is the best way to reduce the risk of premature gray hair. Be sure to get adequate amounts of B12, iron, copper, zinc, and clean (non-toxic) protein in your diet.
If you have serious concerns, check with a trusted, health care provider—who appreciates the value of good nutrition. And avoid cigarette smoke, alcohol, and unwanted (emotional/mental) stress.