Your hair are not shiny anymore. What! 

Regretfully, yes. They have lost their luster and shine because you do not look after them properly. Product buildup, environmental factors, a sedentary lifestyle, or hair that requires more maintenance sometimes irks you.

Consequently, your hair are brittle, which causes hair breakage, and not strong enough to try different hairstyles. Willingly or unwillingly, this is due to a carefree attitude towards your hair, which needs to be corrected. 

Today’s blog talks about DHT blocker food. Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) plays a significant role in the growth of hair in different parts of the body. However, high levels can cause hair loss. 

How does DHT affect your hair growth?

Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a naturally produced sex hormone. It is a derivative of testosterone and contributes to developing the prostate, deep voice, hair, and muscle growth in men. DHT is an unbiased hormone, which means it doesn’t spare men or women. Depending on the amount it is present, its excess can overstimulate hair follicles.

DHT binds to hair follicles and shrinks them. This process is known as miniaturization. Instead of growing, your hair becomes thinner, weaker, and eventually leads to hair loss. 

7 Symptoms of DHT-related Hair Loss

DHT-related hair loss is often linked to androgenic alopecia. Some key signs to watch for: 

1. Thinning Hair
2. Receding Hairline
3. Bald Patches
4. Shorter, weaker hair strands
5. More hair loss than usual
6. Scalp visibility 
7. Loss of hair texture

Today’s topic emphasizes DHT-blocker foods for hair loss, so here are some recommendations that could help you block this hormone and escape hair loss. 

6 DHT blocker foods to Get Long and Shiny Hair

Getting curious, right? So, without the wait, let’s know about certain foods and nutrients that may help block 5-alpha reductase, an enzyme that could decrease DHT production and prevent hair loss, thus giving hair a survival chance.

1. Green Tea

A 2019 research study reveals that epigallocatechin (EGCG), one of the tea’s primary plant chemicals, is believed to protect hair follicles, promote restorative hair growth, and boost the immune system.

2. White Onions

White onions contain quercetin that inhibits the DHT production from testosterone. It blocks enzyme alpha-5 reductase and decreases oxidative stress. Thus, you can expect more hair regeneration and reduced inflammation. 

3. Turmeric

This herb is blessed with health benefits. From reducing arthritis pain to improving cholesterol levels, turmeric does it all. Curcuminoids, an active compound in turmeric, blocks the action of alpha-5 reductase  to lower DHT levels. 

4. Edamame

Edamame are young soybeans which contain isoflavones. These plant compounds are believed to contain mild estrogenic effects that could balance DHT levels. 

5. Flaxseeds 

Flaxseeds is a popular choice for people looking to manage DHT-related hair loss. The presence of lignans can balance hormones by potentially inhibiting the testosterone conversion into DHT. Besides, they contain omega-3s that would be beneficial to the scalp. 

6. Pumpkin Seeds

Pumpkin seeds contain zinc, magnesium, and other nutrients essential for overall hair health. Consuming pumpkin seeds can boost your scalp by inhibiting the enzyme that converts testosterone into DHT. Besides, cucurbitacin in pumpkin seeds is an amino acid that can benefit those suffering from dandruff from a bad scalp. 

Conclusion 

Incorporating these DHT-blocking foods can support hair health and hormone balance. It is always important to consult a skin and hair specialist (dermatologist) before making significant changes to your diet.

FAQs

Which foods contain DHT-blocking properties?

Foods that contain DHT-blocking properties are coconut oil, pumpkin seeds, nuts, tomatoes, and watermelon.

Which foods should be avoided to reduce DHT production?

You should avoid carbohydrates and sugary foods, dairy products, red meat, fast and fried food, and alcohol to reduce DHT production.