Hair growth and hormonal balance: the role of dietary supplements

Hair growth and hormonal balance: the role of dietary supplements

I. Hormonal symphony and its reflection on the hair

Hair, like a barometer, is sensitive to the internal state of the body. Their density, brilliance and growth rate are a reflection of a complex hormonal picture, where even minor fluctuations can lead to noticeable changes. Understanding this relationship is the key to an effective combating of hair problems.

A. Androgens: a dominant role in the formation of the male type of baldness

1. Testosterone and DigidroDotestosterone (DGT): These hormones, traditionally associated with masculinity, play a double role in the life of the hair. On the one hand, testosterone is necessary for hair growth on the body, on the other – its derivative, DGT, is the main culprit of androgen alopecia, or baldness according to the male type. DGT binds to the receptors of hair follicles, reducing their life cycle and leading to gradual thinning and hair loss.

2. DGT action mechanism: DGT inhibits the synthesis of the proteins necessary for the formation of the hair, disrupts the blood supply to the follicle and causes its miniaturization. This process occurs gradually, starting with a bald spot on the temples and moving to the crown.

3. Genetic predisposition: The sensitivity of the hair follicles to DGT is largely determined by genetics. If there are cases of baldness in the family of a man, the risk of developing androgenic alopecia increases significantly.

4. 5-alpha reductase inhibitors: The key enzyme that turns testosterone into DGT is 5-alpha reductase. Pharmaceutical preparations that block this enzyme (for example, finsteride) effectively reduce the level of DGT in the body and slows down the process of baldness. However, they have a number of side effects, so their use requires consultation with a doctor.

B. Estrogens: Women’s Hair Health Power

1. The pop and estron: These hormones play an important role in maintaining hair health in women. They contribute to an increase in the duration of the growth phase (anagen), improve the blood supply to the hair follicles and stimulate the synthesis of the collagen necessary for the strength of the hair.

2. Impact on the phases of hair growth: Estrogens prolong the anagen phase, which leads to a longer hair growth and an increase in their density. With a decrease in estrogen levels, for example, during menopause or after childbirth, the anagen phase is reduced, and the falling phase (heterogene) increases, which leads to loss of hair.

3. Postpartum hair loss: Pregnancy is accompanied by a high level of estrogen, which leads to a significant improvement in the condition of the hair. However, after childbirth, the level of estrogen drops sharply, which causes mass hair loss (heterogene alopecia). This condition is usually temporary and passes independently for several months, but can be quite frightening for young mothers.

4. Menopause and aging of hair: With the onset of menopause, the level of estrogens decreases, which leads to thinning, dryness and brittle hair. An increase in the number of gray hair can also be observed.

5. Hormonal therapy: In some cases, to compensate for the deficiency of estrogen during menopause, hormone replacement therapy (ZGT) may be prescribed. It can improve the condition of the hair, but has a number of contraindications and should only be prescribed by a doctor.

C. Thyroid gland: a metabolic regulator and hair health

1. Thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3): These hormones, produced by the thyroid gland, regulate the metabolism in the body, affecting all processes, including hair growth.

2. Hypothyroidism (lack of thyroid hormones): With hypothyroidism, metabolism slows down, which leads to dryness, brittleness and hair loss. The hair becomes dull and loses its shine. Hair loss on eyebrows and eyelashes can also be observed.

3. Hyperthyroidism (excess hormones of the thyroid gland): With hyperthyroidism, on the contrary, the metabolism is accelerated, which can also lead to hair loss. Hair becomes thin and soft.

4. Autoimmune thyroiditis (Hashimoto disease): This is an autoimmune disease in which the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, leading to hypothyroidism. Hair loss is one of the common symptoms of Hashimoto’s disease.

5. Diagnosis and treatment of thyroid diseases: To diagnose thyroid diseases, it is necessary to pass blood tests for hormones (TS, T4, T3, antibodies to thyroid -peroxidase and thyroidoglobulin). Treatment is prescribed by an endocrinologist and may include hormonal therapy.

D. Prolactin: hormone of motherhood and its effect on hair

1. Prolactin functions: Prolactin is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland and responsible for stimulating lactation. However, it also plays a role in the regulation of the menstrual cycle and affects the condition of the hair.

2. Hyperprolactinemia (increased prolactin level): An increased level of prolactin can lead to disorders of the menstrual cycle, infertility and hair loss. He inhibits the effect of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GNRG), which leads to a decrease in estrogen levels and, as a result, to hair loss.

3. Causes of hyperprolactinemia: The reasons for increasing the level of prolactin can be different: the pituitary tumor (prolactinoma), taking some drugs (antidepressants, antipsychotic), hypothyroidism, and stress.

4. Treatment of hyperprolactinemia: Treatment of hyperprolactinemia depends on the cause of its occurrence and may include drug therapy or surgical intervention.

E. Cortisol: stress hormone and its destructive effect on hair

1. The role of cortisol in the body: Cortisol is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands in response to stress. It helps the body adapt to stressful situations, increasing blood glucose and suppressing inflammatory processes.

2. The influence of chronic hair stress: Chronic stress leads to a constant increased level of cortisol, which negatively affects the health of the hair. Cortisol depresses hair growth, causes their loss and worsens their quality.

3. The mechanism of action of cortisol on the hair: Cortisol can affect the hair in several ways. It inhibits the function of hair follicles, disrupts the blood supply to the scalp and causes inflammation, which leads to hair loss. Also, cortisol can aggravate the course of autoimmune diseases such as focal alopecia.

4. Stress management: An important factor in maintaining hair health is stress. Regular sports, meditation, yoga, sufficient sleep and a balanced diet will help reduce the level of cortisol and improve the condition of the hair.

II. Bades: Assistants in the restoration of hormonal balance and hair health

Biologically active additives (dietary supplements) are concentrated sources of nutrients designed to supplement the diet. They are not drugs, but can have a positive effect on hair health, especially with hormonal disorders.

A. Vitamins: foundation for healthy hair

1. Vitamin D: This vitamin plays an important role in the regulation of the immune system and cell growth, including the cells of the hair follicles. Vitamin D deficiency is often associated with hair loss, especially with focal alopecia. Taking vitamin D in the form of dietary supplements can help restore its level in the body and improve the condition of the hair.

2. B vitamins B: Group B vitamins, especially biotin (vitamin B7), pantothenic acid (vitamin B5), folic acid (vitamin B9) and vitamin B12, are necessary for the normal growth and development of hair. They participate in the energy exchange, keratin synthesis and maintaining the health of the scalp. B vitamins deficiency can lead to hair loss, dryness, brittleness and gray hair.

3. Vitamin C: This vitamin is a powerful antioxidant that protects the cells from damage to free radicals. It is also necessary for the synthesis of collagen, which is the main building material of the hair. Vitamin C deficiency can lead to dryness, brittleness and hair loss.

4. Vitamin E: This vitamin is also an antioxidant and improves blood circulation in the scalp, contributing to the growth of hair. It protects the hair follicles from damage and strengthens the hair.

5. Vitamin A: This vitamin is necessary for the growth and differentiation of cells, including cells of hair follicles. However, an excess of vitamin A can lead to hair loss, so its intake should be moderate and under the control of a doctor.

B. Minerals: irreplaceable components for the fortress and shine of hair

1. Iron: Iron plays an important role in the transport of oxygen to cells, including the cells of hair follicles. Iron deficiency (iron deficiency anemia) is one of the most common causes of hair loss, especially in women. The use of iron in the form of dietary supplements can help restore its level in the body and improve the condition of the hair.

2. Zinc: Zinc is necessary for the synthesis of proteins, including keratin, which is the main building material of the hair. It also plays an important role in the regulation of hormonal balance and immune system. Zinc deficiency can lead to hair loss, dryness, brittleness and inflammation of the scalp.

3. Selenium: Selenium is an antioxidant and protects cells from damage to free radicals. It is also necessary for the normal function of the thyroid gland, which plays an important role in hair growth. Selena deficiency can lead to hair loss and dry scalp.

4. Magnesium: Magnesium is involved in the energy exchange, synthesis of proteins and regulation of the nervous system. Magnesium deficiency can lead to stress, which, as you know, negatively affects the health of the hair.

5. Silicon: Silicon strengthens the structure of the hair, making it more durable and shiny. It also contributes to the synthesis of collagen necessary for the health of the scalp.

C. Amino acids: building blocks for keratin

1. Cysteine: Cysteine ​​is the main amino acid that is part of keratin. It strengthens the structure of the hair, makes it more durable and resistant to damage.

2. Lysine: The lysine is necessary for the synthesis of collagen and the absorption of iron. He also plays an important role in the immune system.

3. Methionine: Metionon is an antioxidant and protects the cells from damage by free radicals. It is also necessary for the synthesis of cysteine.

4. Arginine: Arginine improves blood circulation in the scalp, contributing to hair growth. It also participates in the synthesis of proteins.

D. Plant extracts: natural hair growth stimulants and hormonal regulators

1. Saw Palmetto (Serenoa Repens): Serene palm extract is a natural inhibitor of 5-alpha reductase, an enzyme that turns testosterone into DGT. It reduces the level of DGT in the scalp, slowing down the process of baldness by male type.

2. Pygeum African: African plum cortex is also an inhibitor of 5-alpha reductase. It reduces the level of DGT and improves the condition of the hair.

3. Green Tea Extract (Camellia sinensis): Green tea extract contains polyphenols with antioxidant and anti -inflammatory properties. It protects the hair follicles from damage and stimulates hair growth.

4. Ginseng (Panax ginseng): Ginseng extract improves blood circulation in the scalp, stimulates hair growth and strengthens their structure.

5. Biotinoyl Tripeptide-1: This is a peptide that stimulates hair growth and strengthens their structure. It improves microcirculation in the scalp and promotes hair fixation in follicle.

6. Equisetum arverse (horsetail): Field horsetail extract contains silicon, which strengthens the structure of the hair, making it more durable and shiny.

7. Rosemary (Rosmarinus officinalis): Rosemary extract improves blood circulation in the scalp, stimulates hair growth and has antioxidant properties.

8. Black Cohosh (Cimicifuga racemosa): The ecoster of the cystic carpogon can help to balance the level of estrogen in women, which favorably affects the health of hair during menopause.

9. Dong Quai (Angelica sinensis): Dong Kuai is traditionally used in Chinese medicine to maintain hormonal balance in women. It can improve blood circulation and stimulate hair growth.

E. Omega-3 fatty acids: nutrition for scalp and shine of hair

1. Ecosapentaena acid (EPA) and docosageneian acid (DHA): These fatty acids have anti -inflammatory properties and improve the health of the scalp. They also make hair more shiny and elastic.

2. Linseed oil: Lyan oil is a rich source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALK), which in the body turns into EPK and DGK.

F. Probiotics: intestinal health – hair health

1. The effect of intestinal microbiots on hair health: The intestinal health has a direct effect on the health of the whole organism, including hair. Dysbacteriosis (impaired intestinal microbiotic balance) can lead to inflammation, a decrease in immunity and a violation of the absorption of nutrients, which negatively affects the condition of the hair.

2. The role of probiotics: Probiotics are living microorganisms that benefit health in sufficient consumption. They help restore the balance of intestinal microbiots, improve digestion and absorption of nutrients, which positively affects the health of the hair.

III. Practical recommendations for the use of dietary supplements to improve hair condition

A. Consultation with a doctor: Before taking any dietary supplements, you need to consult a doctor, especially if you have any chronic diseases or take medications. The doctor will help determine the cause of hair loss and choose the most suitable dietary supplements.

B. The choice of high -quality dietary supplements: When choosing dietary supplements, attention should be paid to the composition, dosage and manufacturer. Badam should be given preference from trusted manufacturers with a good reputation and confirming the quality of their products.

C. Dosage compliance: It is necessary to strictly observe the recommended dosage indicated on the package of Bad. Exceeding the dosage can lead to undesirable side effects.

D. Duration of admission: To achieve visible results, dietary supplements must be taken regularly for several months. The effect of taking dietary supplements is accumulative, so you should not expect instant results.

E. Integration with other treatment methods: Bades can be effective in combination with other methods of treatment of hair loss, such as the use of healing shampoos, masks, scalp massage and physiotherapy.

F. Balanced nutrition and a healthy lifestyle: Bades are not a replacement for a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle. To maintain hair health, you need to eat properly, avoid stress, sleep and regularly play sports.

IV. Conclusion

Hormonal balance plays a key role in hair health. Bades can be useful in maintaining this balance and improving the condition of the hair, but only in combination with proper nutrition, a healthy lifestyle and a consultation with a doctor. It is important to remember that dietary supplements are not a panacea, but only an addition to a comprehensive approach to solving hair problems. Self -medication can be dangerous, so always seek advice on a specialist.

V. Additional aspects

A. Blood test for hormones: Before taking any dietary supplements to normalize the hormonal background, it is necessary to take a blood test for hormones to determine which hormones are in an imbalance. This will help to choose the most effective dietary supplements and avoid taking unnecessary or even harmful drugs.

B. Food intolerance and allergies: Food intolerance and allergies can cause inflammation in the body, which negatively affects the health of the hair. The identification and exclusion from the diet of products that cause intolerance or allergies can improve the condition of the hair.

C. Stress management: Stress is one of the main factors affecting hormonal balance and hair health. It is necessary to learn how to control stress using various techniques, such as meditation, yoga, breathing exercises and psychotherapy.

D. Sufficient sleep: During sleep, the body is restored and the normalization of the hormonal background occurs. The lack of sleep can lead to stress, a violation of hormonal balance and hair loss. It is necessary to sleep at least 7-8 hours a day.

E. Regular physical exercises: Regular physical exercises improve blood circulation, reduce stress and normalize hormonal background. It is recommended to play sports at least 3-4 times a week.

F. Refusal of bad habits: Smoking and drinking alcohol negatively affect the health of the hair. It is necessary to abandon these bad habits.

G. Correct hair care: Proper hair care includes the use of high -quality shampoos, air conditioners and masks, avoiding frequent use of a hairdryer, ironing and curling iron, as well as the protection of hair from the sun and other negative environmental factors.

H. Trichoscopy: Trichoscopy is a method for diagnosing the condition of hair and scalp using a special device – a trichoscope. Trichoscopy allows you to identify various problems with hair and scalp and choose the most effective treatment.

I. Mesotherapy: Mesotherapy is a method of introducing microinjections into the scalp with vitamins, minerals and other beneficial substances. Mesotherapy improves blood circulation in the scalp, stimulates hair growth and strengthens their structure.

J. Plasmolifting: Plasmolifting is a method of introducing a patient’s own blood plasma into the scalp, enriched with platelets. Plasmolifting stimulates tissue regeneration, improves blood circulation in the scalp and stimulates hair growth.

K. Hair transplant: Hair transplant is a surgical method for treating baldness, in which hair follicles are transplanted from the donor zone (usually from the back of the head) to the field of baldness. Hair transplant is an effective method of restoring hair density, but requires surgical intervention and has a number of contraindications.

L. The importance of early diagnosis: The sooner the cause of hair loss is revealed and treatment has begun, the more chances to restore hair density. Do not postpone a visit to a trichologist when the first signs of hair loss appear.

M. Patience and perseverance: Treatment of hair loss requires patience and perseverance. Do not expect instant results. It is necessary to observe all the doctor’s recommendations and continue treatment even in the absence of visible improvements for several months.

N. Positive attitude: A positive attitude plays an important role in the success of the treatment of hair loss. Believe that you can restore hair density, and this will certainly happen.