If you are looking for natural ways to prevent hair loss and promote hair growth, you may want to consider some foods that contain 5α-reductase inhibitors. 5α-reductase is an enzyme that converts testosterone into dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that can shrink hair follicles and cause hair loss in some people. By inhibiting 5α-reductase, you can reduce the production of DHT and protect your hair follicles from damage.
In this post, we will introduce some of the best natural 5α-reductase inhibitors that you can find in your kitchen or grocery store. These foods are not only good for your hair but also your overall health and well-being.
Saw palmetto
Saw palmetto is a small palm tree native to North America. Its berries have been used for centuries by Native Americans to treat urinary and reproductive problems. Saw palmetto is also one of the most well-known and widely used natural 5α-reductase inhibitors. It contains fatty acids and phytosterols that can block the enzyme and reduce DHT levels in the blood and tissues. Several studies have shown that saw palmetto can improve hair growth and density in men with androgenetic alopecia (male pattern baldness). Saw palmetto can be taken as a supplement in capsules, tablets, liquid extracts, or tea. The recommended dosage is 160-320 mg per day, divided into two doses.
Green tea
Green tea is one of the most popular beverages in the world, and for good reasons. It is rich in antioxidants, polyphenols, and catechins that have various health benefits, such as lowering blood pressure, cholesterol, and inflammation, and improving brain function and metabolism. One of the catechins in green tea is epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), which has been shown to inhibit 5α-reductase and stimulate hair growth in animal and human studies. EGCG may also prevent the death of cells that regulate the growth and development of hair caused by DHT. To get the most benefits from green tea, you should drink at least 3 cups a day, preferably without sugar or milk.
Coconut oil
Coconut oil is another versatile food that can be used for cooking, baking, skincare, and hair care. It contains medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs), mainly lauric acid, which have antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and antioxidant properties. Lauric acid has also been found to inhibit 5α-reductase in test-tube and animal studies when provided orally. Coconut oil may also moisturize your scalp and hair, prevent protein loss from your hair shafts, and reduce dandruff and scalp infections. You can use coconut oil as a dietary supplement or as a topical treatment for your hair. For best results, use organic virgin coconut oil that has not been refined or bleached.
Reishi mushroom
Reishi mushroom has been used in traditional medicine for its immune-boosting, anti-aging, and anti-inflammatory properties. It may also inhibit 5α-reductase by blocking its binding sites on the cell membrane.
Flax seeds
Flax seeds are a great source of omega-3 fatty acids, lignans, and fiber. They may help lower DHT levels by inhibiting 5α-reductase and increasing sex hormone-binding globulin (SHBG), a protein that binds to free testosterone and DHT in the blood.
Pumpkin seeds
Pumpkin seeds are rich in zinc, magnesium, iron, and phytosterols. They may reduce DHT production by inhibiting 5α-reductase and blocking its receptors on the hair follicles.
Safflower
Safflower is also known as false saffron. It has been used in traditional Thai medicine for hair treatment. It is a potent 5α-reductase inhibitor.
Tags: Hair growth