BBC Breakfast: Robbie Savage teases Charlie over his 'grey hair'

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Although the attitude towards grey hair is rapidly evolving, it has long been something people have tried to delay. It is widely believed that the mechanisms underpinning the greying process stem mainly from genetics. But researchers probing the biological process, believe a host of vitamin deficiencies may also be at play.

According to a 2020 study published in Nature, the greying process starts with the stimulation of nerve cells that use the adrenal gland to secrete norepinephrine.

This secretion of norepinephrine causes cells in the skin’s hair follicles to divide and turn into pigment-producing cells.

This depletes stem cells called melanocytes in the hair follicle, which can lead to loss of pigment in the hair shafts.

Some studies suggest autoimmune disorders, environmental factors and nutritional deficiencies, and at the root of the greying process.

READ MORE: Vitamin D deficiency symptoms: The sign in the eyes signalling low levels

One analysis, which looked at samples of patients with premature greying identified vitamin D deficiency as one of the culprits behind premature greying.

Vitamin D is a water-soluble nutrient produced in the skin by the action of sunlight.

The vital compound has long been hailed for its boosting effects on the immune system, bone health and mental health.

It is becoming increasingly apparent, however, that it may also play a key role in preventing the loss of hair colour.

One study published in the International Journal of Technology in 2013, found that vitamin D3 levels were low in patients with premature grading of hair.

The researchers wrote: “There was a significantly high number of vitamin D3 deficient and insufficient among the cases compared to the controls.

“According to our study, vitamin D3 may play a role in premature greying of hair in our society.

Further research has highlighted that deficiency in vitamin B, vitamin E and calcium can also contribute to greying.

Hair turns grey as levels of melanin – the pigment that gives hair its colour – gradually depleted with age.

It has long been assumed that when this pigment is lost, hair stays grey.

A growing line of research, however, suggests that the process can be reversed.

Studies have shown that a reversal of grey hair correlates with reduced stress.

Rates of vitamin D deficiency are believed to be lower than ever as a result of social restrictions that deprived millions of Britons of sunlight at the peak of the pandemic.

Data shows the deficiency is more common in older people, in those who are overweight and black and Asian people.

While the vitamin is acquired mainly through sunlight, in the winter months it has to be sourced from food.

Foods rich in vitamin D include eggs, oily fish and mushrooms.

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