Healthy Foods That Delay the Appearance of Gray Hair

Stress is one of the most common causes of gray hair

Gray hair is a natural phenomenon, the timing of which is influenced by several factors, including genetics, stress, and diet. In this context, a Japanese study has revealed three types of vegetables that contribute to delaying the appearance of gray hair. Learn about them below.

The appearance of gray hair is a source of concern for many women and men, and this situation is exacerbated when the premature appearance is the result of genetic or psychological factors.

Experts in this field point to two factors that contribute to the premature appearance of gray hair: stress and heredity. If you have parents or grandparents who suffered from gray hair early in life, you may face the same fate.

Foods That Delay the Appearance of Gray Hair

While it is difficult to influence this factor, there is another factor that can be influenced in this area: psychological stress. This can be done by avoiding its sources or learning techniques to deal with it in daily life. The Role of Stress

Psychological stress leads to an increase in the body's production of the hormone cortisol. This hormone affects the functioning of the vagus nerve, which connects the brain to the stomach via the lungs and heart. This nerve regulates most bodily functions. Stress can impair breathing and digestion, lower immunity, and increase stomach acidity. When these functions are disrupted, stress increases, which promotes the appearance of gray hair.

Foods rich in magnesium, copper, and omega-3 fatty acids help prevent stress and prevent premature graying.

3 Types of Vegetables

A new study conducted by researchers at Nagoya University in Japan has shown the effectiveness of certain vegetables in delaying the appearance of gray hair, due to their content of luteolin, an antioxidant from the flavonoid family. These vegetables are:

• Broccoli, rich in antioxidants and vitamin C, which helps protect scalp cells from oxidative stress that accelerates aging.

• Celery, rich in minerals and antioxidants, boosts the production of melanin, the natural pigment that gives hair its color.

• Carrots, rich in beta-carotene, which promotes scalp health and delays graying.

Anti-Graying Foods

The vegetables mentioned in the Japanese study aren't the only ones capable of delaying graying. Experts in this field note that there's a long list of foods that, when included in a balanced diet, can help maintain a youthful scalp and hair for as long as possible.

• Fatty Fish

Sardines, salmon, and mackerel are rich in essential fatty acids and omega-3, which help reduce stress and promote a state of rest and relaxation.

• Avocado

Avocados are rich in vitamin B, magnesium, and potassium, which contribute to optimal nervous system function, thus relieving stress. • Chickpeas

A member of the legume family, chickpeas provide significant amounts of magnesium and vitamin B1, known for their benefits in combating stress.

• Spinach

Contains high levels of magnesium, potassium, and vitamin B6, which contribute to improving nervous system function. It is recommended to consume them raw or cook them briefly to prevent them from losing their properties.

• Whole Grains

Whole-grain bread, rice, and pasta contain significant amounts of magnesium and tryptophan, which converts to serotonin, known as the happiness hormone. They are also full of B vitamins, which are beneficial for emotional balance.

• Bananas

This fruit contains tryptophan, an amino acid the body needs to produce serotonin. Bananas also contain other nutrients such as magnesium, vitamin B6, potassium, and phosphorus.

• Almonds

Rich in zinc, iron, and fatty acids, they combat brain fatigue, which causes low energy and increases anxiety. It is recommended to consume a few almonds as a snack. • Dark Chocolate

Every 100 grams of dark chocolate contains 120 milligrams of magnesium. Therefore, it is recommended to consume one or two squares of it daily, as it plays an anti-anxiety and anti-depression role.

• Green Tea

Green tea contains theanine, which has a calming effect. However, to benefit from its anti-stress effects, you should consume at least three cups of it daily.