Male Pattern Baldness + Root Cause: A Comprehensive Protocol

Male pattern baldness is a condition that affects many men worldwide. While it is often viewed as a natural part of the aging process, it can be distressing for those who experience it. From a naturopathic perspective, the root causes of male pattern baldness can be multifactorial, and addressing them holistically can help to improve hair health and prevent further hair loss.

Check out the Hair Restoration Protocol if you are ready to get your hair back to a healthy state. With a curated meal plan, supplement lists, and herbal regimens, you can restore your scalp health.

Understanding Male Pattern Baldness

Male pattern baldness is a complex condition that can have multiple root causes. While chronic inflammation, environmental toxins, and poor gut health can contribute to hair loss, they are not the only factors involved. Here are five root causes of male pattern baldness that have been identified in functional medicine:

1. Hormonal imbalances, particularly an excess of dihydrotestosterone (DHT)

2. Genetic factors that make individuals more susceptible to hair loss

3. Nutrient deficiencies, including vitamins and minerals such as vitamin D, iron, and zinc

4. Chronic stress and poor stress management

5. Autoimmune conditions that affect the hair follicles, such as alopecia areata

By addressing these root causes through lifestyle changes, dietary modifications, and targeted supplementation, functional medicine practitioners aim to improve hair health and prevent further hair loss.

Root Causes of Male Pattern Baldness

Let's explore an understanding of the root causes and determine what testing is appropriate for yourself.

Hormonal Imbalance

One of the primary root causes of male pattern baldness is hormonal imbalances, particularly an excess of dihydrotestosterone (DHT). DHT is a hormone responsible for developing male characteristics, but when it is produced in excess, it can cause hair loss. Various factors, including age, stress, and poor nutrition, can cause hormonal imbalances. Addressing hormonal imbalances through targeted supplementation and lifestyle changes can help to reduce DHT levels and improve hair health.

To check for hormonal imbalance linked to hair and scalp dysfunction, consider the following hormonal test: thyroid, cortisol, DHEA, testosterone, estradiol, and progesterone

Nutrient Deficits

Nutrient deficiencies, including vitamins and minerals such as vitamin D, iron, and zinc, can also contribute to hair loss. Hair is made up of a protein called keratin, and the body needs specific nutrients to produce it. Ensuring the body gets the nutrients it needs through a healthy diet and targeted supplementation can help improve hair health. For example, foods rich in vitamin D, such as fatty fish and eggs, can help to promote hair growth.

To check for nutrient deficits, consider the following test: Vitamin + Mineral Analysis (Especially Iron)

Chronic Inflammation

Chronic inflammation can also contribute to male pattern baldness. Inflammation is a natural response to injury or infection, but when it becomes chronic, it can damage hair follicles and lead to hair loss. Various factors, including poor diet, stress, and environmental toxins, can cause chronic inflammation. Addressing chronic inflammation through dietary modifications, stress management, and targeted supplementation can help to improve hair health.

To check for chronic inflammation, consider C-reactive protein (CRP), urine cortisol, erythrocyte sedimentation rate (ESR), and plasma viscosity (PV) tests, complete blood count (CBC), urinalysis.

Toxins

Environmental toxins can also contribute to male pattern baldness. Toxins from air pollution, injectable pharmaceuticals, medications, cigarettes, and other sources can damage hair follicles and lead to hair loss. Reducing exposure to toxins and supporting the body's natural detoxification processes through targeted supplementation and dietary modifications can help to improve hair health.

To check for toxicity, consider the Heavy Metal Toxicity Profile - Urine or Hair

Poor Gut Health

Poor gut health can also be a root cause of male pattern baldness. The gut is home to trillions of bacteria crucial to overall health, including hair health. Poor gut health can lead to nutrient deficiencies, chronic inflammation, and hormonal imbalances, all contributing to hair loss. Addressing poor gut health through dietary modifications, targeted supplementation, and stress management can help to improve hair health.

To assess gut health, consider a Stool Analysis for Parasite or fungal overgrowth AND Intestinal Permeability & Absorption Analysis

Get these labs from my storefront, and we will do the rest. Learn more here.

Addressing Male Pattern Baldness

Male pattern baldness can have multiple root causes, and addressing them holistically can help improve hair health and prevent further hair loss. By working with a naturopathic practitioner, individuals can develop a personalized plan to address the root causes of their hair loss and promote overall health and wellness. Supporting hormonal balance, nutrient intake, gut health, and reducing exposure to toxins can encourage hair growth and improve overall health.

There has even been the use of specific supplements and herbs for hair growth, including:

• Saw Palmetto

• Silicon

• Biotin

• Essential Fatty Acids - Omega 3 and 6

• MSM

• Fo Ti

• Rosemary Oil Extract

View the Hair Restoration Protocol for dosing and more.

Remember, hair loss is a natural part of aging for many individuals. However, by addressing the root causes of hair loss, we can improve the health of our hair and promote overall wellness.