Association Between Diet Quality and Premature Gray Hair Among Young Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study in Faisalabad, Pakistan

Abstract

Background: Premature gray hair (PGH) is an increasingly prevalent cosmetic and psychosocial concern among young adults. Although genetic predisposition is considered the primary determinant, dietary quality and lifestyle-related factors have emerged as potential contributors through oxidative stress, micronutrient deficiencies, and impaired melanogenesis. This study investigated the association between diet quality and the prevalence of premature gray hair among young adults in Faisalabad, Pakistan.

Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted among 100 randomly selected adults aged 18–29 years. Data were collected using a structured questionnaire comprising demographic characteristics, anthropometric measurements, family history, lifestyle factors, dietary assessment, Food Frequency Questionnaire (FFQ), and 24-hour dietary recall. Statistical analysis was performed using IBM SPSS version 23.0. Chi-square tests were applied to determine associations between premature gray hair and dietary as well as lifestyle variables, considering p < 0.05 as statistically significant.

Results: Among the participants, 52% were males and 48% were females. Premature gray hair was reported as significant graying (18%), moderate graying (13%), a few gray strands (16%), and almost complete graying (3%). Smoking demonstrated a significant association with PGH (p=0.021). Meal preparation practices were significantly associated with PGH (p=0.035). Dietary assessment revealed significant associations between PGH and the intake of cereals, fruits, vegetables, dairy products, protein-rich foods, and fats and oils, whereas pasta, noodles, bakery products, lentils, and starchy vegetables showed no significant relationship. Participants with poor dietary quality, meal skipping, inadequate supplement intake, and unhealthy eating behaviors exhibited a greater prevalence of premature graying.

Conclusion: Poor diet quality, unhealthy lifestyle behaviors, and smoking were significantly associated with premature gray hair among young adults. Promoting nutrient-rich dietary patterns together with healthy lifestyle modifications may contribute to delaying the onset and progression of premature gray hair.