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Best DHT Blocker Foods: Stop Hair Loss & Promote Growth
You may be experiencing hair loss and looking for natural ways to combat it. But have you ever considered that your DHT could be the reason behind it? DHT, also known as Dihydrotestosterone, is an androgen hormone that can affect your hair growth. Yes, you heard that right! Increased DHT levels can trigger hair loss and androgenetic alopecia. Don’t worry! Here’s the good news. There are DHT-blocking foods that can actually help reduce DHT levels and support hair growth. Here we are with a comprehensive guide that will provide you with the DHT blocker food list and show you how to incorporate DHT blocker food into your diet. Before that, let us try to learn more about DHT
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What Is DHT?
Dihydrotestosterone is a male hormone derived from testosterone. It is present in both men and women. Testosterone transitions into DHT after it interacts with an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase (5-AR). That is how your body creates this sex hormone, which is responsible for the development of male biological characteristics. High levels of DHT can lead to various health problems, including prostate problems, hormonal disorders and hair loss in men. Although present in lower quantities in women, an increase in DHT can cause hirsutism, hormonal imbalance (PCOS) and hair loss. Let us learn how elevated DHT levels influence hair growth in men and women.
How DHT Affects Hair Growth?
Increased levels of DHT affect the hair growth cycle [1] in both men and women. We all know that hair growth occurs in three phases: anagen, catagen and telogen. DHT shortens the anagen phase and causes the hair follicles to shrink by binding to them. This makes the hair strands weaker, eventually resulting in thinner hair, hair fall and ultimately, hair loss.
Top 18 Natural Blocker Foods
It is crucial to regulate the DHT levels to prevent hair loss and promote hair growth. When you do not block DHT, its excess production affects your hair follicles. There are foods that block DHT production, which can help reduce DHT levels. These foods are rich in vitamins, minerals, and essential nutrients [2] that help inhibit the enzyme responsible for converting testosterone to DHT. This further prevents the accumulation of DHT on hair follicles and its impact on them. Consuming the DHT-blocking foods is the most natural and effective way to reduce hair loss caused by DHT. Here are the top 21 natural blocker foods that you can incorporate into your diet:
1. Green Tea: Green tea contains epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a powerful antioxidant that helps reduce DHT levels [3] by inhibiting the enzyme. This is the best DHT blocker food that you can incorporate into your diet to reduce the amount of DHT in your body.
2. Coconut Oil: Coconut oil is a rich source of medium-chain triglycerides (MCTs). They are primarily composed of lauric acid, which helps block DHT production when administered orally. Regular consumption of coconut oil may help reduce DHT levels and prevent hair loss. You can do it by cooking food with coconut oil. Additionally, you can benefit from the topical application of coconut oil as a hair treatment product.
3. Onions: Onions contain a high content of antioxidants, especially quercetin. This antioxidant helps block the action of 5-AR by regulating the production of DHT. Incorporate onions or other fruits and vegetables rich in quercetin [4] into your meals to prevent hair loss.
4. Turmeric: Turmeric is a natural DHT blocker food that helps block the DHT production in your scalp. The curcumin compound hampers the 5AR’s conversion action of testosterone to DHT. The best way to consume this is by adding turmeric powder to your curries, smoothies, and other foods to leverage its benefits.
5. Pumpkin Seeds: Another food that makes its way into the DHT blocker food list is pumpkin seeds [5]. These are high in zinc content, which helps regulate the DHT production and prevent hair loss. To maximise the benefits, consume a handful of pumpkin seeds every day. You can also add them to your salads or other dishes and make them a part of your daily diet.
6. Edamame: The next food in the DHT blocker food list is edamame, also known as soyabeans, which contain isoflavens. These are known to reduce the enzyme activity and block the production of DHT. You can incorporate them into your diet by adding any soy product, such as soy milk or tofu.
7. Berries: These are an excellent source of vitamins and antioxidants that help reduce DHT levels. A variety of berries, such as strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries, is available. You can consume them directly. Alternatively, you can add them to your smoothies, desserts, or cereals for a nutritious treat.
8. Avocado: Another natural DHT blocker food is avocado. It is rich in monounsaturated fats that help block DHT naturally. You can enjoy the benefits of avocados by adding them to your salads, smoothies, or sandwiches.
9. Oysters and Legumes: Another effective DHT blocker food on the list is oysters. They are rich in zinc, which helps block DHT. Adding oysters to your diet can help regulate your DHT levels. Additionally, they are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, iron, and protein, which can support your hair growth.
10. Saw Palmetto Berries: Saw palmetto berries contain phytosterols, which are a natural DHT blocker in the hair follicles. They are often used in hair growth supplements and can help eliminate male pattern baldness and support hair growth.
11. Cucumbers: These are a natural DHT blocker food. Cucumbers contain high water content and help block DHT while nourishing and moisturising your scalp. Try to include them in your salads or consume them as a snack.
12. Bananas: These are the best natural DHT blocker food that contains potassium and other essential nutrients. These help reduce DHT production and supprt hair growth. Include bananas in your daily diet as smoothies or enjoy as a quick snack.
13. Nuts: Almonds, cashews, peanuts, and walnuts are rich in biotin, which supports hair growth and your scalp health. They are an excellent choice for natural DHT blockers.
14. Mangoes: These are a rich source of vitamins C and E that protect your hair from oxidative stress. Mangoes also contain beta-carotene, which is beneficial for your hair health. Eating mangoes regularly can support your efforts to lower the DHT levels.
15. Watermelon: Watermelon is a natural DHT blocker food that helps lower the high DHT levels. It contains lycopene and L-citrulline, which play a major role in reducing DHT. You can enjoy it as a dessert by adding it to a salad along with berries, or simply drink watermelon juice.
16. Tomatoes: Tomatoes contain a high content of lycopene that acts as a natural inhibitor of 5-AR. The best way to consume them is by adding tomatoes to your salads or sandwiches. You can also have them as a soup.
17. Kale: Kale is a power pack of essential nutrients, like vitamins, minerals, and omega-3 fatty acids that help nourish your scalp, control oil production, and reduce inflammation. Consuming it as a cooked green can help naturally block DHT. You can even include it in your salads or smoothies.
18. Carrots and Carrot Oil: Carrots and carrot oil contain a large amount of lycopene, a natural inhibitor of 5-AR. Additionally, it is a rich source of beta-carotene, making it an effective DHT blocker food.
Balanced DHT-Blocking Diet Plan
Incorporate DHT-blocking foods into your daily diet and consume them regularly. It can help block 5-AR activity and reduce DHT production. Some may find the challenge in how to include them. Here we are with a balanced DHT-blocking diet plan that will make your life easier. This diet plan consists of a proper combination of DHT blocker foods to help you achieve optimal results.
| Meals | Food | Ingredients |
| Breakfast | Smoothie |
Spinach Berries |
| Lunch | Salad |
Tomatoes Cucumbers Pumpkin Seeds |
| Snacks | Nuts, or Seeds |
Almonds Pumpkin Seeds Peanuts, or Cashews |
| Dinner | Soup & Leafy |
Tomato soup Kale Spinach |
Foods To Avoid To Reduce DHT
While it is important to consume foods that regulate DHT levels, it is equally important to avoid others for the same reason. Certain foods, like high-sugar items, and processed foods can contribute to hormonal imbalances in the body. This will lead to an increased level of DHT and, eventually, hair loss. Here are some foods you should avoid:
- Refined Carbohydrates: Avoid food items like white bread, sugary cereals and pastries, as they contain refined carbohydrates.
- Sugary Snacks: Reduce your intake of sugary food items, such as candies, cakes, and cookies.
- Unhealthy Fats: Avoid eating fried foods and processed items, as they contain unhealthy fats.
Takeaway
Our hormones can play a significant role in hair loss. DHT is one such hormone that contributes to hair thinning, hair loss, and androgenetic alopecia in both men and women. Incorporating DHT blocker foods into your diet can help prevent hair loss and support hair growth. But the real question is whether you know what is causing hair loss. With several factors contributing to hair loss, it is uncertain to identify the actual reason. If you are unsure, consult a professional who can help you find the ideal solution. At Oliva, our dermatologists offer a holistic approach to determine the root cause of hair loss and then recommend an advanced hair loss treatment plan tailored to your unique needs. Book your appointment today for a personalised solution.
DHT Blockers Foods - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
It is not possible to block DHT permanently. However, with medications like finasteride and lifestyle modifications, you can help reduce its activity in the long term.
No exercise can directly stop DHT. With regular workouts, you can maintain hormone balance and improve blood flow, both of which support healthy hair.
High DHT often manifests as hair thinning, a receding hairline, acne, or oily skin. You need a blood test to confirm these levels.
You know you are low in DHT levels when you notice reduced body hair, lower muscle mass, and decreased libido.
Reducing DHT can help slow down or stop your hair loss. In some cases, it may even promote regrowth. However, these results vary from individual to individual.
A high DHT level supports male characteristics, such as muscle development and libido. However, it can also cause hair loss in genetically prone individuals.
DHT shrinks the hair follicles by binding to them. It weakens the hair strands, leading to thinner hair that eventually stops growing.
Transplanted hair is usually resistant to DHT, so it continues to grow naturally even if native hair thins.
Proper diet, stress management, and scalp care may help reduce DHT production naturally.
If you observe patterned thinning at the temples or crown, it is an indication that you have a DHT-related hair loss. A dermatologist can confirm this through a thorough evaluation.
