Dihydrotestosterone, or DHT, is a naturally occurring hormone in the body. It’s derived from testosterone, and it’s present in both men and women. DHT is responsible for the development of male characteristics, such as facial hair and a deep voice. It also plays a role in baldness and prostatic hyperplasia (an enlarged prostate). However, too much DHT can be detrimental to health. It can lead to hair loss, acne, and enlargement of the prostate gland. Therefore, it’s important to maintain healthy levels of DHT in the body. Below we’ll discuss what DHT is, how it works in the body, and ways to keep your DHT levels balanced.
What is DHT and what does it do in the body
DHT (dihydrotestosterone) is a form of testosterone – an important sex hormone for both genders. It plays a crucial role in the development of our physical characteristics, including hair growth and regulation of oil glands. In men, DHT is the primary cause of balding. It is also responsible for stimulating the sebaceous glands (or as they’re more commonly known, sweat glands) that produce natural oils in our bodies to keep us from drying out. DHT plays an important part in sexual development and libido levels in males and females alike. Although we may be able to regulate DHT levels through diet and exercise, some individuals may require additional medical intervention if hormones become imbalanced or conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome are present.
The effects of DHT on hair loss
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is the main factor in hair loss for both men and women. Produced from testosterone by an enzyme, DHT has further reaching effects than just hair loss since it affects other parts of the body such as the prostate and skin. DHT binds to follicle receptors, leading to miniaturization of hair follicles. As a result, fewer hairs are able to grow at each cycle and eventually this causes balding patches and thinning hair all over the scalp. While genetic susceptibility is one of the major risk factors when it comes to patterned hair loss caused by DHT, high levels of stress may trigger or accelerate the effects. Finding treatments that reduce or block the production of DHT can help delay or mitigate this form of alopecia, resulting in healthier looking hair.
How to reduce the production of DHT
A common way to reduce the production of dihydrotestosterone, or DHT, is to supplement your diet with omega-6 fatty acids. These types of fatty acids help block the production of enzymes that create a higher level of DHT in the body. Additionally, doctors may recommend reducing intake of saturated fats which can lead to unhealthy levels of androgens in the body and an increased production of DHT. Finally, lifestyle changes such as exercising frequently, supplementing your diet with essential vitamins and minerals, and constantly managing stress levels can all work towards achieving hormone equilibrium which will ultimately help reduce the overall production of DHT.
Natural ways to block DHT
A hormone known as Dihyrotestosterone, or DHT, has been linked to hair thinning, particularly in men. Looking to block the hormone without medical intervention? Thankfully there are natural ways you can do just that! Foods with phytosterols, such as pine nuts and pumpkin, have properties that can bind to DHT and reduce its effects on the body. A diet rich in zinc is also beneficial; foods like oats, quinoa and eggs all contain zinc which helps support the scalp tissue and prevent the production of DHT. Herbal teas, like nettle tea, green tea and rosemary tea are also a great way to reduce DHT levels for their anti-inflammatory properties. These natural methods may be just what you’re looking for to manage hair thinning due to DHT!
The role of genetics in hair loss and DHT production
Hair loss is an incredibly common condition, with countless individuals dealing with the effects of baldness, thinning locks, or changes in texture throughout their lifetimes. Many individuals believe that hair loss is solely the cause of genetics and aging; however, research has shown that more complex biological processes are at work. Specifically, genetic and hormonal factors both play a role in hair loss. Genetics can account for hereditary balding as well as predisposition to hormonal imbalances. On the other hand, hormones such as dihydrotestosterone (DHT) play a major part in genetic predisposition to Androgenic Alopecia—the medical term for male or female pattern baldness. Increased levels of DHT have been linked to increased risk of alopecia due to its production contributing to follicle weakening and shrinkage over time. All in all, genetics can create a predisposition to certain forms of hair loss while hormones dictate how they will manifest themselves.
The relationship between stress and hair loss
Stress can have a major impact on our bodies. In particular, many people experience an increase in hair loss when under periods of high-stress. Current research shows that stress increases production of the hormone cortisol, which interrupts the normal development cycles of hair follicles and leads to excess shedding. The most common type of hair loss caused by stress is Telogen Effluvium – a temporary condition that can occur after experiencing an intense physical or psychological shock. To combat this common issue, it’s important to identify high-stress situations as soon as possible and make use of relaxation techniques such as meditation or yoga to keep our stress levels down. In Conclusion, DHT is a hormone that plays an important role in the body. However, it can also cause hair loss. There are several ways to reduce the production of DHT or to block it. Genetics also play a role in hair loss and DHT production. Lastly, stress can also be a factor in hair loss.