30 Seconds Summary
Creatine and Hair Loss: Unraveling the Facts and the Myths

  • Creatine is a well-researched natural supplement produced in the body and found in foods like meat.
  • A study in 2009 observed an increase in dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels in athletes using creatine, leading to speculation about creatine's link to hair loss.
  • DHT is implicated in Androgenetic Alopecia (AGA), also known as male pattern baldness, which could conjecturally be exacerbated by increased DHT levels.
  • The 2009 study's findings have not been replicated, with further studies showing no significant impact of creatine on testosterone or DHT levels.
  • Changes observed in DHT levels in the referenced study were within normal ranges and serum testosterone levels remained unchanged, which questions the mechanism by which creatine would raise DHT.
  • Current research indicates creatine does not cause hair loss or baldness and has no significant impact on androgen levels that would lead to hair loss.
  • Preventative measures for AGA include a healthy diet and medical treatments like Finasteride, which has side effects including sexual dysfunction.
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