- Products that help block DHT which contributes to hair loss
- Natural approach: foods can contribute to hair loss prevention by blocking DHT
- Nutrients helping with your hair loss could be found in these foods
Products that help block DHT which contributes to hair loss
Hair loss is one of the worst things that can happen to a human because it alters our appearance, and it cannot be reversed easily or controlled by us. This is not weight gain caused by laziness or too many calories that could be reversed by trying to diet or eating less and more exercise.
Hormone issues or underlying conditions usually cause hair loss. People are not responsible for these factors. Hair loss is devastating for men because it drastically changes their appearance. While women have makeup, wigs, or hair extensions, it is not easy for men.
However, male pattern baldness is mainly triggered by genetics, and conditions like alopecia cannot be cured. These problems with hair loss are not new, but people in various industries, from medicine, beauty, and even nutrition and food, try to come up with ideas to help those who suffer.
Nutritionists and experts in other fields now discuss particular DHT levels that affect hair growth. Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a hormone similar to testosterone that contributes to facial, pubic, and body hair during puberty. It is revealed that high levels of DHT trigger hair loss in some people[1].
Your body naturally converts around 10 percent of testosterone into DHT using enzymes called 5-alpha reductase. Fortunately, it is revealed that some foods like onions, pumpkin seeds, edamame, and green tea could help lower DHT levels and prevent hair loss.
Natural approach: foods can contribute to hair loss prevention by blocking DHT
While various medications and topical products could help reduce hair loss, blocking DHT production could be a great way to prevent hair loss more naturally and, in some ways, safely. It is especially important when people have issues with excess DHT in their body, which causes hair loss.
"High levels of DHT shrinks the hair follicles and shortens the hair growth cycle. As a result, the hair becomes thinner and more prone to damage," says Dr Pankaj Chaturvedi a known dermatologist in new Dehli.
If you notice your hair thinning or falling out, you might stress about that even more and get yourself into this vicious cycle when hair loss becomes a serious problem that cannot be reversed. Things like lifestyle changes and even diet changes could help you[2].
Nutrients helping with your hair loss could be found in these foods
Green tea, a common beverage derived from the Camellia sinensis plant, is among the most cherished drinks globally. It has gained its popularity when coffee became not so popular among caffeine drinkers. Its popularity is not just due to its refreshing taste but also because of the potential health benefits it offers.
During its production, green tea leaves undergo a steaming process, which helps preserve more of the tea’s natural compounds, including a key chemical called epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG). This compound has caught the attention of researchers due to its anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, which might contribute to preventing hair loss.
By protecting hair follicles, stimulating hair growth, and boosting the immune system, EGCG shows promise in maintaining healthy hair. However, the research in this area is still in its early stages, and it's essential to consult with a healthcare professional before considering green tea supplements as a remedy for hair loss.
Pumpkin seeds, the nutritious gems found within pumpkins, are another food with potential benefits for hair health. Rich in iron, zinc, and magnesium, these seeds have been studied for their effects on hair growth. A study from 2021 revealed that applying pumpkin seed oil for three months helped prevent female pattern hair loss and promoted hair growth.
Similarly, a 2019 animal study found that pumpkin seed oil stimulated hair growth. However, while these findings are encouraging, further human research is necessary before pumpkin seed oil can be recommended for hair loss treatment. Eating them, however, cannot hurt you.
Turmeric, a widely used herb and spice, is celebrated for its numerous health benefits. Turmeric improves immunity and reduces inflammation, but there is more to it. Its active compounds, known as curcuminoids, are responsible for many of its effects, including reducing arthritis pain, improving cholesterol levels, and aiding in exercise recovery.
The most studied of these compounds is curcumin, shown in preclinical studies to lower DHT levels by inhibiting the enzyme alpha-5 reductase. While these findings suggest potential benefits for hair loss prevention.
Edamame, or young soybeans, are a popular snack or appetizer that also holds promise in the fight against hair loss. These beans contain isoflavones, plant compounds that may reduce DHT levels by inhibiting the enzyme 5-alpha reductase. A study conducted in 2007 observed that males who supplemented their diets with soy protein, regardless of isoflavone content, experienced a reduction in DHT levels compared to those who consumed milk protein.
Although the decrease in DHT was insignificant after six months, the results suggest that soy might contain other active components contributing to this effect.
White onions, known for their sharp yet sweet flavor, are a common addition to many dishes. Despite being low in calories, they are packed with antioxidants, including quercetin. This powerful antioxidant has been shown to inhibit the production of DHT from testosterone by blocking the enzyme alpha-5 reductase and reducing oxidative stress.
Some studies have explored the potential of a microneedle combination therapy containing quercetin, copper, and zinc to block DHT, promote hair regeneration, and reduce inflammation. Although these results are promising, no direct evidence shows that eating onions or taking quercetin supplements can reduce DHT levels in humans.
Flaxseeds have been valued more recently. Breads and other baked goods often have these little seeds due to their health benefits. As for hair loss, these alpha-linolenic acid-full seeds can help block 5-alpha reductase.
Omega-3 in flaxseeds also provides great benefits. It can assist the body when it handles stress, which is one of the common reasons for hair loss.
Coconut oil, extracted from the meat of coconuts, is a versatile product widely used in cooking and beauty routines. It is used in skin and hair products and various vegan and vegetarian recipes. Beyond its more commonly known culinary uses, coconut oil is highly valued in overall health practices.
The oil is rich in medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), particularly lauric acid, which has demonstrated the ability to block the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone responsible for hair loss, in laboratory and animal studies.
Other foods full of lycopene, like tomatoes or carrots, could be helpful. Guava, watermelon, and other fruits or vegetables have the nutrition needed to help lock this DHT responsible for hair loss. As for more severe approaches, supplements with zinc, iron, protein, and vitamin A could help you avoid full-on baldness.
