Doctor warns of ingredients in protein shakes that could cause hair loss
A HAIR surgeon has advised gym-goers to rethink what they put in their protein shakes.
He advised against adding popular ingredients that might build muscle but leave your hair limp.
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Protein smoothies or shakes are normally a regular part of the daily routine of fitness enthusiasts.
It is generally seen as a great way to reach your protein goal and maintain your figure.
Elithaar Hair surgeon Dr. Balwi explains why you should avoid certain ingredients.
According to the expert it could be lead to your Rapid hair loss due to elevated dihydrotestosterone or DHT levels.
DHT is a male sex hormone produced by testosterone that plays an important role in hair loss and male pattern baldness.
“It’s crucial to be aware of how the ingredients in protein shakes can affect DHT levels, especially for people concerned about hair loss,” he said.
BANANAS
Bananas are high in potassium, vitamin B6 and vitamin C and are a good source of quick energy due to their high carbohydrate content.
But bananas can also affect blood sugar and insulin levels, increasing androgen production.
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“When androgen levels are elevated, it can activate the sebaceous glands, which are the glands in your hair follicles,” says Dr. Balwi.
He explained that this can lead to increased sebum production, which can block hair follicles and increase the risk of hair loss.
DATA
Dates are good for digestion, but like bananas, they also have a high glycemic index (GI).
These substances can also cause an insulin spike, which increases androgen levels and sebum production. It can also lead to clogging of the hair follicles.
“Replacing these fruits with lower-fructose fruits like blueberries, strawberries, or pears can sweeten your shake without it having a high glycemic index,” Dr. Balwi advises.
CREATINE
Creatine is known for its ability to increase muscle mass and overall body strength, and is widely used by weightlifters.
Because the body produces it naturally, adding more DHT through supplements can lead to increased DHT levels and secretion.
“Alternatively, beta-alanine supplementation may be a good option to enhance athletic performance without affecting DHT levels,” he advised.
FULL MILK
Whole milk is a common everyday beverage that is packed with calcium, protein, and vitamin D.
The hair expert added that they promote both bone and muscle health and are also “a great way to ensure you’re getting healthy fats into your diet.”
What is DHT and How Does it Cause Hair Loss?
DHT, or dihydrotestosterone, is a hormone that the body produces.
It is a derivative of testosterone and affects sexual development in males, but it also occurs in females.
It contributes to the growth of facial and body hair in boys during puberty. However, later in life it can cause hair loss.
According to WebMDis considered the “main culprit” for hair loss and can kill the hair follicles on the head.
When there is more DHT activity around the head, it can shrink hair follicles and shorten the hair growth cycle, according to the Cleveland Clinic.
Because men generally produce more DHT, baldness and hair loss caused by DHT are more common in men.
Medicines such as blockers and inhibitors can reduce DHT.
There are also natural remedies. Studies have shown that pumpkin seed oil can block DHT. Green tea and saw palmetto are also said to block DHT naturally.
Although often added to protein shakes, whole milk is also rich in hormones with testosterone as precursors, which can be converted into DHT.
“The higher fat content in whole milk may also be linked to increased hormone production, including DHT,” adds Dr. Balwi.
FULL FAT YOGURT
Additionally, because “high-fat diets are sometimes associated with higher DHT levels, full-fat yogurt may have a similar effect as whole milk.”
“By choosing ingredients like low GI fruits, plant-based milks, low-fat yogurts, and protein sources like BCAAs or plant proteins, you can keep DHT levels in check while still getting essential nutrients,” Dr. Balwi advises.
It is important to pay attention to your diet and exercise habits, but this should not come at the expense of your hair follicles.
Dr. Balwi said that “incorporating these alternatives into your morning shake is a great way to achieve your fitness goals while protecting your hairline.”
