20 Aug 2025 : Nowadays, people’s hair is turning white at a young age. Most people consider hair turning white a natural process, and many see it only as a cosmetic issue, using hair dye to cover it. However, very few know that premature greying can also be a sign of underlying diseases. According to experts, white hair is not only a sign of aging but may also indicate thyroid disorders, heart problems, and other serious health issues. Additionally, the use of artificial hair dyes can negatively impact other parts of the body.
In fact, white hair is not always a normal sign of aging. In many cases, it may be an early warning of health concerns, organ dysfunction, or nutritional deficiencies in the body. In such situations, everything from diet to lifestyle must be taken care of—eating nutrient-rich food, managing stress, avoiding smoking, and undergoing regular health checkups. By doing so, you can prevent both premature greying and long-term health problems.
Why does hair turn white at a young age?
- Nutritional deficiencies – Lack of Vitamin B12, folic acid, iron, and copper reduces the natural pigment (melanin) in hair.
- Heart health – People whose hair turns white early may face a higher risk of heart disease.
- Stress and lifestyle – Mental stress, smoking, and lack of sleep are also major causes of premature greying.
- Genetics – If early greying runs in the family, the problem is more likely to occur.
Causes of hair color changes
Vitamin B12 deficiency
Vitamin B12 is essential for red blood cell formation and neurological functions. Its deficiency reduces melanocyte activity, leading to premature greying. Apart from changes in hair, B12 deficiency can also cause fatigue, anemia, and neurological problems.
Thyroid disorders
The thyroid gland regulates metabolism and skin follicle activity through thyroid hormones. Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can disrupt melanin production in hair follicles, leading to premature greying, thinning, and dryness of hair.
Autoimmune diseases
Autoimmune disorders can directly affect melanocytes and hair follicles. Vitiligo destroys melanocytes in both skin and hair, causing white patches. Alopecia areata leads to sudden hair loss, and regrown hair often appears white. A 2015 study published in the Journal of the American Academy of Dermatology found that patients with autoimmune diseases experience premature greying at a much higher rate than the general population.
Nutritional problems
Nutrients are crucial for a healthy body. Deficiency of iron, folic acid, and zinc reduces hair follicle activity. Copper deficiency inhibits an enzyme called tyrosinase, which is essential for melanin production, thereby causing premature greying.
Summary:
Experts suggest premature white hair could signal thyroid or heart-related problems, emphasizing how hair color changes may reflect underlying health conditions affecting vital body organs.