Best DHT Blocker Foods To Reduce DHT Naturally Through Diet

Understanding DHT

DHT is derived from testosterone through the action of the enzyme 5-alpha reductase. This enzyme converts a portion of the body’s testosterone into DHT, which is more potent and plays a role in:

• Prostate growth and function

• Development of secondary male characteristics

• Regulation of body hair growth

While DHT is necessary for normal bodily functions, excessive levels can lead to hair follicle miniaturisation, causing hair thinning and eventual hair loss in individuals genetically predisposed to androgenetic alopecia.

Natural DHT Blocking Foods

1. Saw Palmetto

Saw palmetto is one of the most well-known natural DHT blockers. It is derived from the berries of the Serenoa repens plant and is commonly used in supplements for prostate health and hair loss prevention.

• Saw palmetto works by inhibiting the 5-alpha reductase enzyme, reducing the conversion of testosterone to DHT. The active compounds in saw palmetto, such as fatty acids and phytosterols, interfere with DHT binding to androgen receptors, potentially preventing follicular shrinkage.

• A study found that men who took saw palmetto extract experienced a decrease in DHT levels and improved hair regrowth (PMC).

2. Green Tea

Green tea contains polyphenols known as catechins, which have been shown to reduce 5-alpha reductase activity, thereby lowering DHT levels.

• Epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG), a powerful antioxidant in green tea, has been linked to reduced DHT levels. EGCG suppresses the action of 5-alpha reductase, preventing the conversion of testosterone into DHT while also reducing oxidative stress in scalp tissues.

• Research indicates that EGCG helps prevent hair follicle miniaturisation by reducing inflammation and oxidative stress on the scalp (PMC).

3. Pumpkin Seeds and Pumpkin Seed Oil

Pumpkin seeds are rich in zinc, a mineral essential for hormone regulation and hair health. Zinc deficiency has been linked to increased 5-alpha reductase activity, leading to higher DHT production.

• Pumpkin seed oil contains phytosterols, which have been found to inhibit 5-alpha reductase. Additionally, it provides essential fatty acids that promote scalp health and improve hair strength.

• A clinical trial found that men who took pumpkin seed oil supplements saw a significant increase in hair count compared to a placebo group (PubMed).

4. Tomatoes

Tomatoes are rich in lycopene, a powerful antioxidant that helps regulate hormones and reduce the effects of DHT on hair follicles.

• Lycopene has been found to inhibit 5-alpha reductase activity, making it a natural DHT blocker. It also reduces inflammation, which may help protect hair follicles from oxidative damage.

• Studies have shown that lycopene reduces DHT accumulation in prostate tissues, suggesting its effectiveness as a natural DHT blocker (PubMed).

5. Spinach and Other Leafy Greens

Spinach is a great source of magnesium, which has been shown to inhibit 5-alpha reductase activity and lower DHT levels.

• Magnesium also helps regulate overall hormone balance, supporting hair growth. It acts as a natural DHT modulator by preventing excessive conversion of testosterone into DHT.

• Other leafy greens such as kale and Swiss chard also contribute to reduced DHT production due to their high zinc and vitamin B content.

• Research supports the role of magnesium in reducing DHT-related effects on prostate and hair health (PubMed).

6. Soy-Based Foods

Soy-based foods such as tofu, soy milk, and edamame contain isoflavones, plant compounds that have been found to reduce DHT activity by modulating hormone levels.

• Isoflavones may act as natural 5-alpha reductase inhibitors, thereby decreasing DHT levels.

• A study suggests that genistein, a type of isoflavone found in soy, may reduce DHT production and promote hair growth (PubMed).

7. Turmeric

Turmeric contains curcumin, a powerful anti-inflammatory compound that has been shown to reduce DHT levels by inhibiting 5-alpha reductase activity.

• Curcumin has been found to interfere with the conversion of testosterone to DHT.

• A study indicates that curcumin supplementation can lower DHT levels and improve hair regrowth (PubMed).