Creatine is a common dietary supplement athletes and fitness enthusiasts use to increase muscle strength, stamina, and performance. It is a naturally occurring substance in foods like fish and red meat, but some people are worried that creatine can lead to hair loss.
Keep reading to find out if it’s true.
Does Creatine Cause Hair Loss?
Creatine and hair loss have been the subject of minimal research, and the results are conflicting. Some research has linked Creatine supplementation to hair loss, while other studies show no connection to healthy hair.
Dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a hormone that can contribute to hair loss in men and women, is one of the hypotheses supporting the potential association between creatine supplementation and hair loss. DHT inhibits the production of thicker hair strands by binding to androgen receptors in hair follicles. One hypothesis proposed to explain the potential link between creatine supplementation and hair loss is that creatine may increase the body’s production of DHT. This is because creatine has been shown to increase testosterone levels, which can then be converted into DHT by 5-alpha-reductase. Meanwhile, not all research has discovered a significant rise in DHT levels in response to creatine administration. Furthermore, other factors such as genetics, stress, and certain medications can also contribute to hair loss. Hence, you need to consider these factors when determining the potential causes of hair loss.
Another idea holds that by boosting the body’s production of reactive oxygen species (ROS), creatine may indirectly contribute to hair loss. ROS are chemicals that can potentially harm cells, including those in hair follicles, resulting in hair loss. But there is also no concrete evidence to back up this notion. Moreover, many people who use creatine do not experience hair loss, suggesting that other elements like genetics, stress, or food may contribute more to hair loss. It is important to remember that taking creatine supplements in the authorized doses is generally safe for healthy people. Creatine’s moderate side effects often include bloating, gastrointestinal pain, and muscle cramping. However, people with underlying medical disorders, including renal or liver illness, should avoid supplementing with creatine.
Conclusion
There isn’t any solid proof that using creatine supplements results in hair loss. Some studies show that creatine and hair loss may be related, although other research has shown no conclusive evidence of this connection. Before beginning any dietary supplement program, it is imperative to go over any worries you may have regarding hair loss or other adverse effects with a healthcare expert. To promote general health and well-being, including healthy hair, you should maintain a nutritious diet, control stress, and lead a healthy lifestyle.
