Waking up with your hair hugging and lying on your pillows has become a common problem now. The constantly changing lifestyle with adulterated food can be underlying causes for hairfall issues.
During the hairfall stage, you may observe receding hairline and bald patches, and high Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels may be the reason for this.
Are you wondering how to reduce DHT? There are certain prescription medications and DHT blocker foods like carrots, berries, onions, and more. Adding these foods to your diet may enhance your efforts to reduce DHT levels. Continue reading this article to find out which foods you must eat to prevent hair fall.
How to Reduce DHT?
DHT is derived from testosterone in your body. Some research shows that certain foods can reduce DHT production, which not only prevents hair loss but also stimulates hair growth. While there are some science-based treatments, you can try these DHT blocking foods for good results:
1. Turmeric
Turmeric is a natural DHT blockers food, it has a high concentration of curcumin which helps lower DHT levels. It also has antioxidants and is known for its anti-inflammatory properties. It can reverse the hair damage and regulate the hair growth cycle.
2. Carrots
Not only good for eye health, carrots are also important for hair health. It is one of the best foods that block DHT. They are rich in several vitamins, carotenes, fiber and potassium. Being the best DHT blocker food, its lycopene content prevents hair loss caused due to high DHT and protects hair against external damage.
3. Almonds
Almonds are natural dht blockers that contain protein, biotin, zinc and Vitamin E, which are vital for DHT blocking. It effectively strengthens hair follicles, you can eat a handful of soaked almonds on an empty stomach for better results.
4. Banana
The biotin content in bananas make it one of the most popular DHT blocking foods. It restricts the conversion of testosterone into DHT. It is a good source of potassium and helps enhance the nutrient supply to the hair follicles. Bananas also help maintain healthy gut bacteria which limits the overproduction of DHT.
5. Pumpkin Seeds
In the DHT blocker food list, pumpkin seed is highly considerable. These are a powerhouse of vital minerals and contain cucurbitacin, which is an amino acid necessary for hair growth. These seeds also have omega-3 fatty acids and L-lysine which improve hair quality and texture. You can consume a handful of pumpkin seeds daily or add them to salads.
6. Green Tea
Green tea is among the magical and natural DHT blocker foods. It supports your natural hair growth and prevents unwanted hair loss. When green tea is produced, its leaves are steamed that helps retain its natural compounds. Due to the presence of catechins in green tea, it shows the production of dihydrotestosterone (DHT). Upon regular consumption, it helps maintain optimal DHT levels and maximize its effectiveness.
7. Coconut Oil
Coconut oil serves as a natural DHT blocker food. Since it has a high amount of lauric acid, it supports natural hair growth. This acid helps in the conversion of testosterone into DHT that mitigates the risk of hairfall. Coconut oil can be used in multiple ways – applying it topically or consuming it in foods to get the maximum hair growth benefits.
8. Onions
Onion is one of the best DHT blocker foods. It enhances the flavor of any delicacy, has less calories, and high levels of antioxidants. It contains one antioxidant, namely, quercetin. It is known to produce DHT from testosterone, thereby decreasing oxidative stress. In turn, onions promote hair regeneration. There still needs to be studies done for its impact on DHT levels.
9. Edamame
Many of you may not have heard about this DHT blocker food. Edamame, these are young soybeans in the pod and are crucial in the DHT blocker food list. It is also one of the best protein rich foods. These are known to have isoflavones that help lower DHT levels. Irrespective of this, more studies are underway for the promising results of edamame on DHT levels for healthier hair growth.
10. Berries
Blueberries are the foods that block DHT. These have antioxidants in abundance that contribute to blocking DHT. These foods have some flavonoids that boost blood flow to the scalp which is crucial for your healthier hair growth. Moreover, blueberries have proanthocyanidins that push your hair from the stage of resting to the active growth phase.
Did You Know?
DHT marks a different effect on each individual. Moreover, its effects are seen differently in childhood, puberty, and throughout the adult life of an individual. According to ISHRS international medical society, when you start using DHT blockers, the hair growth/regrowth results are noticeable from 3-6 months.
Conclusion
Foods that have high lycopene are known to have a significant effect on DHT levels in the body. Even though further research is needed, you can add the above mentioned DHT blocking foods to your diet. Consult a dietician to learn more about the appropriate diet for you and seek medical help if your condition doesn’t improve even after taking medicines and eating these foods.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q1. How can DHT production be prevented naturally?
Ans. Practicing a healthy lifestyle will help reduce DHT levels naturally. You must exercise regularly, quit smoking, reduce stress, and rest well.
Q2. Does sugar increase DHT levels?
Ans. Yes, sugar intake will increase blood sugar levels and DHT.
Q3. Is DHT hormone only found in men?
Ans. The DHT hormone is a type of androgen derived from testosterone. It plays a role in the development of the male body during puberty and can also be found in females, but their actual role is unknown.
Sources:
https://www.stylecraze.com/articles/dht-blocker-food/
https://www.forhims.com/blog/foods-that-block-dht
https://akclinics.org/blog/12-most-powerful-natural-dht-blockers-that-stop-hair-loss/
https://manmatters.com/blog/dht-blockers-and-food/
