Prevent greying of hair

Hair colour is the result of pigmentation, attributed to the presence of certain specific chemicals known as eumelanin and pheomelanin (broadly referred to as melanin). The stem cells at the base of the hair follicles are responsible for producing melanocytes, the cells that produce and store pigment in the hair and skin. The more the melanin, the darker the hair colour.

Grey hair is often associated with ageing, but the change in hair colour is also caused by the gradual decrease of pigmentation that occurs when melanin to production in the hair root ceases, and new hair grows without pigment. The death of the melanocyte stem cells causes the onset of greying.

Since hair is made up of protein, a low protein intake can result in a change of hair colour. Grey hair can also be caused due to stress.

Food items that help to tackle greying of hair: Consume sufficient antioxidants, both in the natural form such as vegetables and fruit juices, and raw nuts like almonds, walnuts, cashews as well as the synthetic form by taking supplements of vitamin E, selenium, zinc, folic acid and B-vitamins Have protein in appropriate quantities to give your hair a natural shine and good texture. Include sprouted whole grains, cereals, eggs and soy in your diet Include orange and yellow fruits, and vegetables in your diet, as they are rich in vitamin A, which aids in promoting a healthy scalp, while preventing greying of hair Minerals like zinc (present in chicken and eggs), iron (green leafy vegetables and sesame seeds) and copper (wholegrains and fish) promote healthy hair and prevent greying Avoid food with artificial colours and preservatives, as they put a strain on your digestive system and can lead to dull and brittle hair along with a dehydrated scalp Instead of reaching for a packet of commercially processed hair dye, try some natural applications such as olive oil, avocado or banana as your nourishing masks Choose products that are gentle, preferably without any harsh detergent like sodium lauryl sulfate. For daily washes, use a mild shampoo that is gentle and moisturising Massage your scalp with your fingertips; it helps regulate the blood circulation. Reportedly, massaging the scalp with amla (gooseberry) paste, warm coconut oil and lemon reverses the process of greying Boiling soaked reetha (soap nut) and shikakai (hair fruit) pods for few minutes and using this liquid as shampoo also improves hair health.