DHT is Dihydrotestosterone, a hormone similar to testosterone that contributes to hair loss in both men and women. The body converts 5% of testosterone to DHT using enzymes. The blocking of this enzyme can help to fight hair loss and prevent hair fall among men and women of various ages. You can do it with a combination of medication and diet. Let’s find out the top 5 foods that can help block DHT and prevent hair loss.
Coconut Oil- Coconut oil can withstand extremely high cooking temperatures and is used as a replacement for vegetable oils. It can also be used on hair, face, body, and for other beauty and medical reasons. Found from the kernel or meat of coconuts, coconut oil used in cooking or directly on hair can help fight hair loss and block DHT. It contains a high amount of fat from medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), primarily in the form of lauric acid. Lauric acid is beneficial to block DHT production and has been scientifically proven to assist hair growth. Coconut oil is also a traditional Indian remedy for hair loss, hair growth, strengthening hair, and improving the texture of hair. Across Southern India, coconut oil is traditionally used in cooking and hair massages for its particular benefits.
Onions- Onions contain few calories but include a high amount of antioxidants such as quercetin. Onions are rich in flavor and almost added to all dishes, curries, meals, sauces, and soups for their taste and benefits. Quercetin has been known to inhibit the production of DHT from testosterone by blocking enzymes. It also decreases oxidative stress, and relaxes our minds. Quercetin is also found in spinach, asparagus, kale, apples, and berries. Quercetin taken along with medication for hair loss can benefit your hair, improve growth, and induce softer texture.
Turmeric-Globally known for its impressive health benefits, turmeric is a spice used in cooking and as a powder. Turmeric can improve your skin, reduce joint pain, fight cold and flu, improve cholesterol levels, and calm inflamed skin or injuries. Active compounds such as curcumin are responsible for the health and medicinal benefits provided by turmeric. Curcumin lowers the levels of DHT and blocks enzymes thus preventing hair loss and affecting hair growth positively. You can add turmeric to your regular meals or drink it in the morning with warm water to fight hair loss.
Green Tea- One of the most popular drinks worldwide, green tea is derived from the Camellia sinensis plant. The leaves are steamed which maintains the natural compounds found in the tea plant. The primary plant chemical or natural compound is called epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) which has benefits such as weight loss, boosting heart health, and reducing stress. EGCG also strengthens hair follicles and protects them, which reduces the loss caused by DHT. Drinking green tea does provide all of these benefits however it may time to see the effects. Using supplements containing EGCG or green tea extract may provide faster results but they should only be used in consultation with specialists as they can cause liver damage in certain people.
Pumpkin Seeds- Pumpkin contains seeds that are rich in iron, zinc, magnesium, and antioxidants. Studies have proven that taking pumpkin seed oil supplements daily leads to significant hair growth in men. Pumpkin seed oil can inhibit DHT production by blocking the enzymes known as alpha-5 reductase. Male pattern hair loss can be fought or prevented by taking pumpkin seed oil or supplements.
Hair loss or hair fall is a result of several factors such as stress, genetics, poor dietary and lifestyle choices, inadequate care, and improper hygiene. Vitamin deficiency such as deficiency in biotin, lack of zinc, iron deficiency, and Vitamin A can also lead to hair loss. Including the foods mentioned above, a healthy diet, a clean lifestyle, and no stress can help you achieve hair growth and reduction in hair fall. Consult a specialist before consuming any additional supplements or vitamins.
