9 Incredible Foods to Prevent and Reverse Hair Loss

Last Updated on January 7, 2021

Hair loss can affect all men, women and even children. There are various causes behind hair loss, including chemotherapy, stress, thyroid disorders, low iron…etc.

But the major and common causes are your genes, your nutritional status and the androgen hormone, dihydrotestosterone (DHT) which derives from testosterone.

Hair is made up of a protein called keratin, which is produced in hair follicles. Old cells are pushed out through the skin as follicles produce new hair cells. And that’s how hair grows.

DHT is the hormone behind hair loss, and is five times more potent than testosterone. It causes the hair follicles to shrink, have shorter lifespan and it also reduces the hair production.

Generally, hair loss products concentrate on the following nutrients and herbs, which mainly stop the conversion of testosterone into DHT:

1. Saw Palmetto

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Saw palmetto works on your hair by stopping testosterone from being converted into dihydrotestosterone (DHT). As high levels of DHT are related to hair loss, high levels of DHT are related to hair growth.

When the conversion is stopped, testosterone levels rise. Meaning that it can reduce hair loss and improve hair growth. The usual dosage recommended is 160 mg twice a day.

2. Pygeum (Prunus Africana)

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Pygeum is one of the leading natural solutions to hair loss alongside saw palmetto, it works as a natural DHT blocker, by blocking an enzyme known as 5-alpha-reductase, from changing testosterone into DHT. According to University of Michigan’s Health Department, the pygeum dosage recommended is 200 mg a day.

3. Nettle Root

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The plant’s root can be used in preparations to help reduce or prevent hair loss. Nettle root works by blocking the 5-alpha reductase enzyme from converting testosterone into DHT. It may also prevent age-related hair loss in men and women. Multiple shampoos consist of nettle extract.

4. Pumpkin Seeds