stress and gray hairImage Credit source: Getty Images
Some people’s hair starts turning gray prematurely. Often it is linked to increasing age, but in many cases the color of hair starts changing even at a young age. The natural color of hair is determined by a pigment called melanin, which is produced by special cells of the body. When the work of these cells is affected, hair may gradually start turning grey. However, there can be many reasons behind premature graying of hair. In recent years, many researches have been done on the relationship between stress and hair health. However, its effect may vary from person to person.
Nowadays, busy life, work pressure and mental stress Have become a part of many people’s daily routine. In such a situation, people also want to know whether stress can affect the health of hair. There is not just one reason responsible for premature graying of hair, but many factors together can play a role in it. In such a situation, it is important to know how stress can cause premature graying of hair, what other reasons can be responsible behind it and what things should be kept in mind to maintain the health of hair.
How can stress cause premature graying of hair?
National Institutes of Health (NIH) According to, there may be a link between stress and premature graying of hair. The study found that excess stress can affect the body’s stem cells, which produce melanocyte cells that give hair color. When these stem cells decrease or die, the ability to produce melanin in the hair can be affected and the hair may appear prematurely grey.
However, this does not mean that stress is the only cause of gray hair in every person. Every person’s body’s reaction is different. In some people, the effect of prolonged mental stress on hair health may be more visible, while in others it is not. Along with stress, other health and genetic factors can also play a role. Therefore, if hair starts graying rapidly at an early age, then instead of blaming stress alone, one should consult a doctor and find out the real reason.
What other reasons can be responsible for premature graying of hair?
Apart from stress, genetic factors are considered to be the most common cause of premature graying of hair. If there has been a problem of graying of hair at an early age in the family, then its chances may increase. Apart from this, deficiency of nutrients like Vitamin B12, iron, copper and folate in the body, thyroid related problems, some autoimmune diseases, smoking and poor lifestyle can also affect the color of hair.
In some cases, the effects of long-term nutritional deficiency or health-related problems can also be visible on the hair. If hair suddenly starts turning gray in large numbers at a young age, it is better to get it checked by a doctor.
What to do to prevent premature graying of hair?
To maintain hair health, take a balanced and nutritious diet, which contains adequate amounts of vitamins, iron and other essential nutrients. Get enough sleep and adopt habits like yoga, meditation or regular exercise to reduce stress. Avoid smoking and do not repeatedly use products containing harsh chemicals on hair.
Regular care of hair and scalp is also important. If hair starts graying rapidly at an early age or it is accompanied by hair fall, fatigue or other health problems, then necessary tests should be done after consulting a doctor.
