HEALTHLINE – Here are 6 foods that may fight hair loss by blocking Dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone similar to testosterone.
It plays a role in the growth of facial, pubic, and body hair during puberty.
1. Green tea
Derived from the Camellia sinensis plant, green tea is among the most popular drinks worldwide.
During production, green tea leaves are steamed, which maintains more of the tea’s natural compounds. This includes one of green tea’s primary plant chemicals, epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG).
A 2019 review found that EGCG may have anti-inflammatory and antioxidative properties that could help prevent hair loss by:
- protecting hair follicles
- stimulating hair growth
- boosting the immune system
- preventing apoptosis, or hair cell death
Despite these promising findings, the authors note that research on the effects of EGCG on hair loss is limited.
As such, it’s best to speak with a healthcare professional before taking green tea supplements for hair loss.
2. Coconut oil
Coconut oil comes from the kernel or meat of coconuts.
It’s commonly used for cooking, but it also has various applications in beauty, skin care, hair care, and overall health.
3. Onions (and other foods rich in quercetin)
White onions add a sweet yet sharp flavor to many dishes.
They contain few calories but boast a high content of antioxidants.
One antioxidant, quercetin, has been shown to inhibit the production of DHT from testosterone by blocking the action of the enzyme alpha-5 reductase and decreasing oxidative stress …
