Arjun asks: Can kids have grey hair? Is there anything we can eat for healthier hair?
Wynnie says: Our natural hair colour is provided by melanin, a pigment produced by special cells in our hair follicles. As we get older, the activity of these melanocyte cells starts to slow, which results in grey hairs. Each person's 'melanocyte clock' is different, so the greying process can happen very quickly in some people, while others remain grey-free for years.
However, premature greying of hair in children can be due to a number of medical conditions that reduce the production of melanin or destroy the melanocytes, such as vitamin B12 deficiency, anaemia and thyroid disorders.
Genetics, hormones, lifestyle and environment influence the growth and health of hair. The adage 'you are what you eat' holds especially true for hair health. Apart from a balanced diet containing lean protein, fruit, vegetables, whole grains, legumes, fatty fish such as salmon and low-fat dairy products, certain vitamins are vital for a healthy head of hair.
Biotin, sometimes known as vitamin H, is a B-complex vitamin that promotes healthy hair growth by increasing the elasticity of hair follicles, so preventing damage and breakage. Good sources include tomatoes, romaine lettuce, carrots, cow's and goat's milk, almonds, eggs, onions, raspberries, strawberries, halibut, oats and walnuts.
Beta carotene and vitamin A protect cell membranes, including those of the hair follicles. They're also needed to make your own natural hair conditioner - sebum, an oily substance that hair follicles secrete to keep the scalp moisturised and healthy. Beta carotene is converted into vitamin A in the body and is found in orange, red, yellow and green coloured fruits and vegetables, such as spinach, kale, sweet potatoes, carrots, pumpkin, peppers, mango, cantaloupe melon and apricots. Eggs, cheese, oily fish, yoghurt and organ meats like liver are rich in vitamin A.
Vitamin C helps repair blood vessels, bone and connective tissue, and hair. By maintaining the blood capillaries, which carry blood to the follicles, vitamin C helps to improve circulation on the scalp, thus encouraging healthy hair growth. Foods rich in vitamin C include citrus fruits, strawberries, papaya, kiwi fruit, melons, peppers and dark green leafy vegetables.
