Can Vitamin B12 Reverse Premature Gray Hair? Graying Chart, 13 Causes & 8 Tips

If vitamin B12 deficiency is the cause of premature graying, then it can be reversed with vitamin B12 supplementation.

Premature graying may be reversed with vitamin B12 supplementation only if vitamin B12 deficiency is the cause. If you are graying due to other factors, such as genetics, zinc deficiency, and medications, your gray hair cannot be reversed.

If you are going gray early, you must contact your doctor to know the underlying cause. Vitamin B12 deficiency is one of the most common causes of premature graying. It is, however, advisable to see a dermatologist and not try self-treatment for premature graying. 

You may have other underlying causes of premature graying or have additional nutritional deficiencies besides B12 deficiency (such as folic acid, iron, or pantothenic acid deficiency). Hence, a proper diagnosis is essential for treatment.

How does vitamin B12 affect your hair?

Vitamin B12 is an important nutrient for overall health. It is essential for making DNA which is the genetic material found in all cells of the body including blood, nerve, and hair follicles. 

• Hair follicles are present around the lower end of the hair, called hair roots, which help keep the hair anchored to the scalp.
• Hair follicles produce a substance called melanin that provides hair its color.
• Hair follicles depend on the blood cells for getting oxygen and nutrients.

Because vitamin B12 deficiency hampers the growth of healthy blood cells, it can lead to the under-nourishment of hair follicles. Hair loss and premature graying are, thus, commonly seen in people with vitamin B12 deficiency.

Vitamin B12 is naturally present in foods of animal origin, such as meat, eggs, and dairy. Thus, vegetarians or vegans may be at a higher risk of vitamin B12 deficiency. It can also occur in individuals who have some problem with vitamin B12 absorption.

What is premature graying of hair?

Premature graying of hair (also called PGH) is a condition in which hair starts graying at a much earlier age than expected. The normal or expected age for premature graying differs with ethnicities.
 

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