Can bodybuilding supplements cause hair loss?
Consuming bodybuilding supplements has long been associated with hair loss and male pattern baldness. It distresses supplement users all around the world. The first signs of hairline retreating can crush a man’s confidence and self-esteem, leading to lost opportunities in personal and professional life. Therefor, a question we get often asked is: can bodybuilding supplements cause hair loss? However, before establishing if bodybuilding supplements can cause hair loss, it is vital to know the factors that lead to baldness.
What causes hair loss in men?
Many factors can contribute to hair loss in men. Male pattern baldness leads the chart and affects 50% of all men over the age of 50. Other factors include inappropriate nutrition, age, stress, and hormonal changes. All these factors can single-handedly be responsible for hair loss. Hormonal changes and nutrition are controllable. However, factors like age and genetics are natural and beyond a person’s control.
Can bodybuilding supplements cause hair loss?
Yes. Some bodybuilding supplements can cause hair loss. It depends on the ingredients of the supplements and how they pack extra muscles into your body. Sometimes, hair loss can be caused by supplements that boost testosterone levels. However, it is worth noting that it’s not testosterone that leads to hair loss. Instead, it’s the by-product of testosterone: DHT. DHT sticks to receptors on hair follicles and causes them to weaken. Using DHT blockers can stop your hair from falling. DHT blockers function by blocking the production of DHT. This means that you can enjoy the benefits of testosterone-boosting supplements without the risk of hair loss. Also, it’s important to note that using testosterone boosting supplements is not always the cause of hair fall, even if you’re using them. There can be other factors like genetics and stress, which have no relation with using supplements.
Over-consumption of nutritional supplements can also cause hair loss. It’s best not to exceed the recommended dose as over-consumption can lead to other health issues too. As far as protein supplements are concerned, there is no solid evidence that they can cause hair loss.
Can hair loss caused by bodybuilding supplements be reversed?
Yes. You can reverse hair loss caused by bodybuilding supplements, given that it is not due to male pattern baldness. The same goes for hair loss caused by stress. It is reversible. Hair supplements containing biotin induce hair growth and make your hair look healthier, shinier, and better than ever.
Can working out cause hair loss even without the use of bodybuilding supplements?
There is no direct relationship between working out and hair loss. However, when you lift weights excessively, there is a rise in testosterone levels in the body. The increment in testosterone echoes the effects of DHT, which harms hair follicles. But, as discussed above, using DHT blockers can completely eliminate the risk of hair fall.
In addition, sweating also induces hair loss. Sweating is beneficial for you as it removes toxins from the body. However, when you let sweat build up on your scalp, it can lead to dandruff and irritation. The itching sensation caused by irritation can result in you aggressively scratching your hair, eventually leading to hair fall.
Also, if you’re obsessed with swimming and are experiencing hair loss, avoid taking a dip in swimming pools. The chlorine added in swimming pools damages hair stands, exposing them to breakage and, ultimately: disappearing hairline.
How to prevent losing hair while using bodybuilding supplements?
Shower after your workouts
As mentioned above, working out can cause sweat to settle on your scalp. The best practice is to take a nice quick shower right after your workout. Not only will it wash all the sweat away, but it will also give you an explosive burst of energy. In addition, avoid using women’s hair accessories. They are too strong for men’s hair and can cause hair fall.
Use coconut oil
Using coconut oil is one of the best ways to combat hair loss. Apply coconut oil regularly on your scalp, and while you’re at it, don’t be too aggressive. Try reaching the scalp instead of just coating your hair. Also, try consuming foods that are readily convertible to vitamin A by the body. Sweet potatoes can be a good pick as they are also one of the best carbs for building muscles.
Conclusion: can bodybuilding supplement cause hair loss?
Conclusively, there is no cause-and-effect relationship between bodybuilding supplements and hair loss. Most types of hair loss are reversible. If you are experiencing hair loss due to male pattern baldness, then there’s no natural solution. However, there are artificial solutions like hair transplants that have proven effective. If you want to have the best of both worlds,
- Be gentle with your hair;
- Add cardio and bodyweight exercises to your routine;
- Apply coconut oil regularly;
- Take a shower after working out;
- Eat your proteins right.
