Graying hair is typically considered a sign of old age, and with old age comes an increased likelihood of health-related issues. While some may consider gray hair a sign of experience and wisdom, according to a new study presented at a European Society of Cardiology conference, the amount of gray hair in adult men is correlated with an increased risk of heart disease.
In the United States, heart disease is the number one cause of death in adults. It is a consequence of plaque buildup composed of cholesterol, fat, calcium, and other substances, collectively part of a disease condition called atherosclerosis. When these plaques become calcified over time, they reduce the elasticity of the blood vessels and limit the blood supply to various tissue and organs—most importantly the heart. If left untreated, atherosclerotic plaque buildup can lead to stroke, heart attack, and even heart failure. According to researchers’, atherosclerosis and graying hair have similar causes—damaged DNA due to aging increases oxidative stress and the aging of cells….