Does Andropause Cause Hair Loss?
Andropause is the male version of the menopause so does Andropause cause hair loss?
We’ve all heard of the menopause. Andropause however, doesn’t get quite as much coverage. Why this is so is anyone’s guess. During this period, there is a gradual drop in testosterone and this wreaks havoc on the health of the hair.
It can be scary to discover clumps of hair coming off while you shower or you notice that there is more hair on your comb than your head. The emotional and psychological toll of hair loss makes many men depressed, desperate and disappointed.
Does Andropause Cause Hair Loss
A healthy head of hair is associated with youthful, good looks. Most men do not want a head that resembles a new bowling ball. Yet, the testosterone imbalance in their body is working against them. This can be aggravating.
Hair needs healthy testosterone to grow. However, if enzymes break down the testosterone to a simpler form known as dihydrotestosterone, there will be hair loss.
Too much of this hormone will reduce the size of your hair follicles. This will make your hair break down and fall off.
In normal amounts, dihydrotestosterone (DHT) is the strongest form of testosterone and is required for men to develop facial and body hair. In excess though, this hormone can cause hair degeneration and hair loss. So, you’re walking a fine line here.
There are higher levels of DHT in certain parts of the body than in others. That’s the reason why men have hair on the chest and back. Women have DHT but they produce less of it, which explains why most women don’t have a moustache.
When the enzyme that breaks down testosterone to dihydrotestosterone is doing too much too soon, male pattern baldness occurs. This is also the main cause for the andropausal condition.
Usually hair grows at a rate of a quarter of an inch every 2 weeks. During andropause, due to over-active hormones, the hair growth cycle becomes erratic and the hair doesn’t grow the way it should.
The best way to remedy this situation is to hit the gym and exercise. Active men who exercise regularly actually reverse the ageing process. Their muscles get stronger, they get leaner and there is better blood circulation in the body. It is also a way to de-stress.
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All these are extremely beneficial to hair growth. Stress hormones such as cortisol indirectly cause hair loss. Eating unhealthy, nutrient deficient foods also exacerbate the situation.
You want to ensure that you have diet that is rich in macro and micro-nutrients. Your hair needs sufficient protein, vitamin D and iron to flourish.
These tips are common sense. Yet, many men and women neglect them and experience hair loss which can be avoided if they were proactive.
Avoid fast food, processed food, junk food, sodas, etc. These foods contain chemical and additives that may indirectly be causing your hair to fall.
Do not smoke and avoid alcohol if you can.
Andropause usually occurs in men who have neglected their health for too long. Develop the habits of exercise and eating right. Not only will you be able to prevent hair loss but you’ll also keep many diseases and health issues at bay.
