When it comes to hair loss, you may know that food contributes to it. You may also know that stress can cause hair loss, or changes in your hormones levels that may lead to significant hair loss. Have you heard bout DHT and how it can cause hair loss? Let’s explain what this is and how it may help to further understand the hair loss you’re experiencing.

What Is DHT and Why Does It Matter?

Dihydrotestosterone or DHT is a part of the testosterone hormone. There is an enzyme in your body that is responsible for converting testosterone into DHT. Testosterone is the male sex hormone. This enzyme converts to DHT molecules in various tissues of the body, mainly the prostate gland, brain, and liver. It also does this in the skin and hair follicles.

That tells us that DHT is an important part of the development of male characteristics. This includes things like the development of a deep voice, the growth of facial hair, and muscle building. The problem arises when there are excessive amounts of DHT molecules and how the body processes it. When this happens, it binds to the hair follicle receptors. For many, DHT molecules cause a blocking of the blood supply to the cells located in the follicle itself. A blockage here leads to the cells not receiving the nutrients that they need to produce hair. That means that, over time, when the growth cycle continues, the hair follicles are smaller and cannot grow hair as they should. This leads to hair loss.

This is a common cause of hair loss in men. It is often called androgenetic alopecia or male pattern baldness. However, it can happen in women as well. We call this female pattern baldness.

The Key – You May Be Able to Block Those Molecules

The goal then when it comes to stopping hair loss is to prevent those DHT molecules from binding with the hair follicles. We cannot remove all DHT from the body, but we can bring it down to the proper levels in various ways. In doing that, it may be possible to prevent baldness from occurring.

One of the best ways to do this is to introduce foods and herbs that can help to control DHT levels and keep them within that normal range. This is more effective than many people expect. Here are a few of the herbs and foods that may help in this way.

  • Black Sesame – It works as the enzyme necessary for moving those DHT molecules to the right tissues. It can help to inhibit DHT production as well.
  • Flax Seed – Helps to save your hair from loss but it also can work to reduce free radicals in hair cells that cause damage.
  • Grape Seed – Inhibits DHT production in the cells on the scalp. Grape seed is also very helpful at keeping moisture in your hair and limiting dry, dandruff flaking.
  • Fennel Seed – Works as a tool for reducing the production of DHT in the scalp’s cells. It may also help to improve the overall nutrient intake of your cells in this area because of how dense it is in antioxidants.
  • Amla – Known as Indian gooseberry, this is a rich source of linoleic acid, which is very good for your hair. It may also help you to have softer and shinier hair in most cases.
  • Licorice – Reduces the production of testosterone itself. That helps to minimize the creation of DHT levels that are outside of the normal range. It is also helpful in reducing inflammation at the scalp and reducing scabbing or flakes there.

Depending on what you would like to do, you can use these foods through consumption or, in some cases, by using their oils as a massage into the scalp. Many people will add them to their diets. You will also want to ensure you speak to your doctor about any nutrient deficiencies you may have that are also contributing.

Contact the hair specialists at Unique Hair Concepts to learn more.