Premature grey hair can be more than just a style issue. Experts believe it might indicate health problems that should be addressed. The reasons behind early greying often include nutrient deficiencies and hormonal imbalances. Interestingly, some studies point to the possibility of reversing greying by tackling these underlying issues.
Leslie Kelly, who founded Oxford Healthspan, is a prime example. At 59, she hasn’t dyed her hair. Instead, she credits her vibrant tresses to a balanced diet, stress management, and certain nutrients like spermidine and iron.
Deficiencies in key nutrients can lead to early grey hair. Factors like stress, age, and infections can also play a role. Leslie explains that a lack of thyroid hormone or iron is common, especially in women, and low vitamin D levels might contribute as well.
Research shows that some children as young as 12 can experience premature greying due to thyroid hormone deficiency. Remarkably, when these young patients received treatment, their natural hair color returned.
“Grey hair can be reversed, but it requires the right conditions for each person,” Leslie states, emphasizing the importance of blood tests. These tests can help identify deficiencies that may be affecting hair color.
Lifestyle choices greatly influence the greying process. Smoking and drinking alcohol can decrease antioxidants in the body. Glutathione, the body’s main antioxidant, diminishes when we consume too much of these substances, leading to earlier greying.
Infections can also cause premature greying. For instance, H. Pylori, a bacteria linked with stomach cancer, can deplete iron levels in the body, potentially resulting in early greyness.
Medical professionals often suggest comprehensive blood tests to look for mineral deficiencies, including zinc, copper, magnesium, and iron. These tests help identify the causes of premature greying.
Interestingly, traditional Eastern medicine practitioners consider hair characteristics important for diagnosing health issues. They analyze not just the color, but also the texture and shine of the hair, along with other signs, like ridges or infections in the nails, to gain insights into a person’s overall health.
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Lifestyle,Hair