The surprising connection between diet and white hair has been revealed Dr. Maya Roseman

In one of the studies published in the journal “Nature” it was found that stress activates the nervous system and causes damage to the stem cells that produce melanin, the pigment responsible for hair color. When these cells are damaged, the ability to produce color simply disappears.

Not only that – stress also increases oxidative stress in the body, damages the antioxidant balance, and affects the levels of essential vitamins and minerals, exactly the same nutrients that are important for maintaining hair color. That is, receding hair is not only a matter of age but also a combination of stress, nutrition and what happens inside our body.

Oxidative stress is a condition in which there is an excess of free radicals, molecules that damage cells – and a decrease in the levels of antioxidants. It can be caused by environmental pollutants, smoking, mental stress, and also poor nutrition. For example: a study published in the “International Journal of Trichology” found that young men with premature hair regrowth had lower levels of vitamin B12, copper and iron, compared to a control group.

– Iron is involved in the transfer of oxygen to cells – including hair cells. A lack of it can cause hair loss and early regrowth. This vitamin is found in red meat, lentils, tofu, nuts and oats.

– The copper affects the activity of the enzyme tyrosinase, which is directly involved in the production of melanin. Good sources: dark chocolate, liver, cashews, mushrooms and seeds.

– The folic acids (vitamin B9) and biotin (B7) contribute to the regeneration of hair cells and to maintaining a normal hair structure.

– Folic acid: green vegetables such as broccoli, lettuce and spinach.

– Biotin: egg yolk (especially when half-cooked), nuts, legumes and soy.

To combine foods rich in antioxidants such as vegetables, fruits and quality oils – which reduce oxidative stress and to avoid as much as possible processed food and chronic stress, which may speed up the process.