Lifestyle
Discover the Foods That May Help Keep Your Hair Color Vibrant, According to New Research
While the onset of gray hair is a natural part of aging, many seek ways to delay this change. A promising study suggests that certain foods rich in antioxidants might hold the key to maintaining your hair’s natural color for longer.
Recent research highlights a yellow-pigmented flavone called luteolin, found in many common fruits and vegetables, as a potential agent in preventing gray hair. This study, conducted using a mouse model, compared the effects of luteolin with two other antioxidants, hesperetin and diosmetin, to determine which had the most significant impact on hair pigmentation.
“Luteolin was the only antioxidant that prevented gray hair, which authors note was ‘surprising.'” Mice treated with luteolin retained their natural black hair, unlike those treated with the other antioxidants, who developed a gray coat.
The study’s findings underscore the role of luteolin in influencing endothelins—proteins essential for cellular communication. “Luteolin’s anti-graying effects are closely linked to its influence on endothelins,” explains the study’s press release. This preservation of endothelins and their receptors supports healthy signaling pathways, preventing the decline in melanocyte activity, which is often associated with the graying process.
“Interestingly, luteolin had limited effects on hair cycles,” said Masashi Kato, a researcher at Nagoya University and study author. “This targeted action makes luteolin a particularly intriguing candidate for addressing age-related hair graying.”
For those who enjoy salads or frequently cook with onions and peppers, you’re likely already consuming a diet high in luteolin. This antioxidant is prevalent in many vegetables and some citrus fruits. The U.S. Department of Agriculture’s Food Database provides a detailed list of luteolin-rich foods, emphasizing their density levels.
In addition to dietary sources, luteolin is available in supplement form for both topical and oral use. However, it’s advisable to consult with a healthcare provider before introducing any new supplements into your routine.
This study opens up exciting possibilities for a natural approach to preventing gray hair. Although further research, particularly involving human trials, is necessary, the findings offer a glimpse into potential future applications.
Nagoya University researcher and study author Takumi Kagawa expressed enthusiasm for the broader implications of this discovery. “It would be interesting to investigate whether luteolin’s anti-aging effects could also be applicable to other age-related changes, including balding,” Kagawa noted.
As the science progresses, luteolin may become a key player in the fight against age-related hair changes, offering a natural solution for those hoping to maintain their youthful appearance.
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