Modern medicine believes that premature graying of hair is related to psychological factors, malnutrition, endocrine disorders, and systemic chronic wasting diseases. Traditional Chinese medicine believes that this condition is mainly caused by deficiency of the liver and kidneys, as well as deficiency of qi and blood. Congenital premature graying of hair is mostly related to genetics and is difficult to treat. Acquired premature graying of hair, in addition to treating the underlying cause, should also focus on improving nutrition.
Experiments have shown that a lack of protein and severe malnutrition are among the causes of premature graying of hair. A deficiency of trace elements such as copper, cobalt, and iron in the diet can also lead to graying of hair.
In recent years, scientists have discovered that the pigment particles in hair contain a mixture of copper and iron. When the nickel content in black hair increases, the hair turns gray; golden hair contains titanium; reddish-brown hair contains molybdenum; and chestnut-red hair contains copper as well as titanium.
From this, it can be seen that trace elements are closely related to hair color. In order to prevent premature graying of hair, it is important to consume foods rich in iron and copper. Foods high in iron include animal liver, eggs, black fungus, kelp, soybeans, and sesame paste. Foods high in copper include animal liver, kidneys, shellfish, nuts, dried apricots, and beans. Pay attention to the intake of B vitamins. Medical experts have confirmed that a deficiency of vitamins B1, B2, and B6 is also an important cause of premature graying of hair.
Hair care
In order to prevent premature graying of hair, it is important to increase the intake of foods such as grains, legumes, dried fruits, animal liver, heart, kidneys, dairy products, eggs, and green leafy vegetables. It is also important to consume foods rich in tyrosine. The process of melanin formation is the oxidation of tyrosine by tyrosinase. In other words, tyrosine is the basis for melanin formation. A deficiency of tyrosine can also cause premature graying of hair. Therefore, it is recommended to consume foods rich in tyrosine, such as chicken, lean beef, lean pork, lean lamb, rabbit meat, fish, and nuts.
In addition, it is beneficial to regularly consume foods that promote hair health and hair color, such as raw sugar, soy products, fresh vegetables, fruits, seafood, and eggs, as they provide the necessary ingredients for synthesizing melanin. Traditional Chinese medicine believes that "hair is the surplus of blood" and "the kidneys govern the bones, and their beauty is reflected in the hair." Therefore, it is recommended to eat foods that nourish the blood and kidneys to promote hair health and color, such as walnuts, black sesame seeds, black beans, black dates, and black fungus. These foods are rich in protein and trace elements necessary for hair growth and beauty.
