Yes, vitamin D deficiency can contribute to premature grey hair, as studies show a link between low vitamin D levels (along with deficiencies in iron, B12, copper, zinc) and a loss of hair pigment (melanin), potentially causing hair to turn white or grey earlier than usual. Addressing the deficiency with proper nutrition or supplements (after consulting a doctor) might help restore color, though results vary, and genetics are a primary factor.
A review of research suggests that proper supplementation may reverse premature graying in those who are deficient in certain nutrients, including iron, vitamin D, and vitamin B12. However, even though some supplements are specifically sold as “anti-graying,” there aren't any studies that prove they work.
A severe vitamin D deficiency can cause hair loss (as well as other issues), but not gray/white hair.
Here are 10 unexpected signs of a vitamin D deficiency that may surprise you.
When vitamin D levels are low and the body isn't able to properly absorb calcium and phosphorus, there is an increased risk of bone pain, bone fractures, muscle pain, and muscle weakness. In older adults, severe vitamin D deficiency (levels less than 10 ng/mL) may also contribute to an increased risk of falls.
“This is one of the first studies to show that women with low levels of Vitamin D gain more weight, and although it was only two pounds, over time that can add up,” said study author Erin LeBlanc, MD, an endocrinologist and researcher at the Kaiser Permanente Center for Health Research in Portland, Oregon.
However, research suggests that Vitamin B12 deficiency may also contribute to premature graying. By incorporating Vitamin B12 into your diet or through supplementation, you can help prevent premature graying and maintain your hair's natural color for longer.
When deficiency disrupts vitamin D in your scalp, the anagen (growth) phase shortens. This prematurely pushes more resting follicles into the telogen (rest) phase. Excessive shedding occurs, resulting in thinner hair.
Sometimes, melanocytes - the pigment-producing cells in hair follicles may start functioning again, leading to darker hair regrowth. This is rare, but not unheard of in people recovering from hormonal shifts, an illness or medication adjustments. The other possible cause is your medication.
Vitamin deficiencies such as low iron, copper, b12, and hypothyroidism can lead to premature greying. Compelling evidence suggests that prolonged intense stress can cause premature greying. Oxidative stress from the sun and tanning damages the pigment cells of the hair root causing hairs to become grey.
It is less known that magnesium deficiency can slow down hair growth and cause premature hair graying. It's estimated that well over 80% of adult Americans do not consume the desired daily amount of magnesium.
As of now, there are no effective treatments that can reverse or prevent gray hair.
Taking too much vitamin D leads to calcium buildup (hypercalcemia), causing physical signs like nausea/vomiting, fatigue/weakness, frequent urination & excessive thirst, constipation, and confusion/disorientation, alongside potential bone pain or kidney stones, often from supplements, not sun exposure.
Vitamin D receptors are present in the hair follicles, and low levels of this vitamin are thought to disrupt the hair's growth cycle (the anagen phase). We also check zinc for hair loss, as this mineral plays a vital role in hair tissue growth and repair.
Symptoms when vitamin D is low
Fatigue. Not sleeping well. Bone pain or achiness. Depression or feelings of sadness.
You can begin to restore hair growth immediately, with a full recovery time usually taking between 6 and 8 months for those with long hair. For those with shorter hair, new hair growth can begin to look thicker and fuller within 2-4 weeks.
To quickly increase Vitamin D, combine safe sunlight exposure (10-20 mins daily without sunscreen for lighter skin), taking high-dose Vitamin D3 supplements (consult a doctor first), and eating foods like fatty fish (salmon, tuna), egg yolks, fortified milk/cereals, and sun-exposed mushrooms, ensuring you take supplements with a fat source for better absorption.
ca and vitamin D3 levels were significantly lower in patients with premature graying of hair. Vitamin D3 levels were either deficient or insufficient in all the individuals of case group indicating probably an important role in pigmentation of the hair.
3. Diet and Nutrition for Melanin Production
Calcium and vitamin D supplementation is associated with decreased abdominal visceral adipose tissue in overweight and obese adults.
In children, it can cause rickets. Rickets is a rare disease that causes the bones to become soft and bend. African American infants and children are at higher risk of getting rickets. In adults, severe vitamin D deficiency leads to osteomalacia.
Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin, which means it doesn't dissolve in water and is best absorbed into blood when combined with foods rich in fat. For this reason, it is recommended to take vitamin D with meals to enhance absorption.