What your gray hair may be telling you

Wednesday, January 29, 2014 by: Carolanne Wright
Tags: grey hair, aging, TCM

(NaturalNews) When Ann Wigmore was in her 50s, she was riddled with health issues and had a full head of gray hair. She then began a life-changing journey of living foods, which included green smoothies and ample shots of wheatgrass. Before long, she regained her health along with a fresh glow. Interestingly, her hair returned to its youthful color as well. Considering the condition of the hair reflects nutritional status and overall vitality, Ann Wigmore's dramatic transformation isn't surprising. In light of this, it's important to keep in mind that premature graying hair is much more than a cosmetic concern, it can indicate serious nutritional deficiencies and foreshadow a future of disease.

The root issue behind gray hair - and what to do about it

Scientists have isolated the cause for gray hair, namely, melanin pigment producing stem cells located at each follicle. Depending on our genetic disposition, these cells begin to produce less pigment as we age, which eventually results in gray hair.

Be that as it may, Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) and Ayurveda, the time-honored medical system of India, believe the reasons for gray hair extend far beyond simple genetic heritage. According to TCM, the quality of blood and the health of the kidneys are reflected in the strength, color and condition of hair. Foods that fortify the blood and kidneys include chlorophyll, blackstrap molasses, black sesame seeds, hijiki seaweed, nettles and, Ann Wigmore's favorite, wheatgrass. TCM recommends the avoidance of excessive dairy, meat and salt.

In Ayurvedic thought, graying hair is related to an underlying disturbance with the pitta and vata body constitutions. Pitta is your typical Type A personality - active, fiery and driven, while vata is quick and light with a tendency towards nervousness. Reduction of stress is important for balancing both. Exercise, yoga, deep breathing, massage, acupuncture and meditation are all beneficial. Amla, a popular Ayurvedic herb, is also recommended as it slows down aging.

Furthermore, premature gray hair can indicate thyroid disorders like Grave's disease, Hashimoto's disease, hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Vitamin B5, B6 and B12 deficiencies, as well as iron anemia, are also common. These vitamin and mineral problems are often linked with malabsorption issues stemming from Crohn's disease, celiac disease, intestinal bacterial overgrowth or fish tapeworms. Lack of adequate vitamin A, zinc and copper are troublesome too and can lead to poor immunity, weakened blood vessel integrity and, in some cases, stroke and cardiovascular disease.

Ann Wigmore seemed to intuitively sense the value in reversing health issues and the aging process through living foods and nutrient dense green drinks. Unknowingly in agreement with the principles governing TCM and Ayurveda, she embraced a diet teeming with A and B vitamins, minerals and plant-based protein, effectively healing disease and defending against future problems - all with a glossy, full head of hair to boot.

Sources for this article include:

http://altmedicine.about.com/od/drcathywongsanswers/f/grayhair.htm

http://www.foxnews.com

http://www.wigmore.org/miracles_wheatgrass.html

http://www.mindbodygreen.com

About the author:
Carolanne believes if we want to see change in the world, we need to be the change. As a nutritionist, wellness coach and natural foods chef, she has encouraged others to embrace a healthy lifestyle of green living for over 13 years. Through her website www.Thrive-Living.net she looks forward to connecting with other like-minded people who share a similar vision.

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