A HAIR surgeon has urged avid gym-goers to rethink what they are putting in their protein shakes.
He advised against commonly added popular ingredients that could cause muscle gains but leave your hair limp.
Smoothies or protein shakes are typically a staple treat for regular fitness fans.
It’s generally encouraged as a great way to help reach your protein goal and maintain your body shape.
Elihair hair surgeon Dr Balwi explained why you should avoid certain ingredients.
According to the expert, this could take to your hair falling out rapidly due to increased levels of dihydrotestosterone or DHT.
DHT is a male sex hormone produced from testosterone that plays a key role in male thinning and baldness.
“It is crucial to be aware of how ingredients in protein shakes can affect DHT levels, especially for individuals concerned about hair loss,” he said.
BANANAS
Bananas are rich in potassium, vitamin B6 and vitamin C and are a great source of quick energy due to their high carbohydrate count.
But bananas can also affect blood sugar and insulin levels, causing an increase in androgen production.
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“If androgen levels increase, it can trigger the sebaceous glands, which are the glands found in hair follicles,” Dr.
In turn, he explained that this can lead to increased sebum production, which can block follicles and increase the risk of loss.
DATES
Dates are great for digestive health, but like bananas, they are also a high glycemic index or GI food.
Including these can also cause an insulin spike that increases androgen levels and leads to increased sebum production and potential follicular blockage.
“Replacing these fruits with low-fat fruits like blueberries, strawberries, or pears can sweeten your shake without the high glycemic content,” Dr. Balwi suggested.
CREATINE
Creatine is known for its ability to increase muscle mass and overall body strength, and is very common among weightlifters.
Since it is naturally produced in the body, adding more through supplements can lead to increased DHT levels and elimination.
“Alternatively, beta-alanine supplementation may be a good option to improve athletic performance without affecting DHT levels,” he recommended.
WHOLE MILK
Whole milk is a common daily drink, full of calcium, protein and vitamin D.
The hair expert added that they support both bone and muscle health and are also “a great way to ensure you include healthy fats in your diet.”
What is DHT and how does it cause hair loss?
DHT, or dihydrotestosterone, is a hormone produced by the body.
Derived from testosterone, it affects the sexual development of men, but is also present in women.
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 WebMDIt is believed to be the “main culprit” of hair loss and can kill follicles on your 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 typically produce more, baldness and hair loss due to DHT are more common in men.
Medications 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 believed to naturally block DHT.
Although they are commonly added to protein shakes, whole milk is also rich in hormones that have testosterone precursors that can turn into DHT.
“The higher levels of fat present in whole milk may also be linked to increased hormone production, including DHT,” added Dr.
WHOLE YOGURT
Additionally, because “high-fat diets are sometimes associated with higher DHT levels, full-fat yogurt may have a similar impact as whole milk.”
“Choosing ingredients like low-GI fruits, non-dairy milk, low-fat yogurt, and protein sources like BCAAs or plant-based proteins can help control DHT levels while providing essential nutrients,” Dr.
Paying close attention to your diet and exercise habits is important, but not at the expense of your follicles.
Balwi said that “incorporating these alternatives into your morning shake is a great way to reach your fitness goals while protecting your hairline.”
This story originally appeared on The-sun.com read the full story
