Lifestyle Factors and DHT: How Diet and Exercise Can Impact DHT Levels and Hair Loss

Lifestyle Factors and DHT: How Diet and Exercise Can Impact DHT Levels and Hair Loss

Dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is a hormone that plays a significant role in hair loss. DHT is a byproduct of testosterone, and high levels of DHT can cause hair follicles to shrink, leading to hair loss. While genetics play a significant role in DHT production, lifestyle factors such as diet and exercise can also impact DHT levels. In this blog, we will discuss how diet and exercise can impact DHT levels and hair loss.

Diet and DHT Levels

The food we eat can impact our hormone levels, including DHT. Here are some dietary factors that can impact DHT levels:

1. Fatty Acids: Research has shown that a diet high in saturated and monounsaturated fats can increase DHT levels. On the other hand, a diet high in polyunsaturated fats like omega-3 fatty acids can reduce DHT levels.
2. Sugar and Carbohydrates: High sugar and carbohydrate intake can lead to insulin resistance, which can increase DHT levels.
3. Zinc: Zinc is an essential mineral that helps regulate hormone levels, including DHT. A diet low in zinc can increase DHT levels.

Exercise and DHT Levels

Exercise is another lifestyle factor that can impact DHT levels. While exercise is beneficial for overall health, intense exercise can increase DHT levels. Here are some exercise factors that can impact DHT levels:

1. Type of Exercise: Research has shown that resistance training and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) can increase DHT levels. On the other hand, moderate exercise like jogging or walking does not significantly impact DHT levels.
2. Duration and Intensity: Long-duration and high-intensity exercise can increase DHT levels. Short-duration and low-intensity exercise does not significantly impact DHT levels.

Preventing Hair Loss Caused by DHT

While genetics play a significant role in DHT production, lifestyle factors such as diet and exercise can also impact DHT levels. Here are some tips to prevent hair loss caused by DHT:

1. Follow a balanced diet that is low in saturated and monounsaturated fats and high in polyunsaturated fats.
2. Reduce sugar and carbohydrate intake to prevent insulin resistance.
3. Consume foods high in zinc, such as oysters, beef, and pumpkin seeds.
4. Engage in moderate exercise like jogging or walking.
5. Limit high-intensity exercises like resistance training and HIIT.

In conclusion, while genetics play a significant role in DHT production, lifestyle factors such as diet and exercise can also impact DHT levels. Following a balanced diet that is low in saturated and monounsaturated fats and high in polyunsaturated fats, reducing sugar and carbohydrate intake, and engaging in moderate exercise can help prevent hair loss caused by DHT. If you are experiencing hair loss, it’s essential to speak to a professional for diagnosis and treatment options. Our team at IHLS Australia can provide personalized recommendations on which products would be best suited for an individual’s specific hair loss concerns. Call us at  1300 557 224.