Hair Thinning? Your Belly Fat Might Be the Real Culprit

Most people believe hair loss is just a matter of genetics or aging, but they're missing the #1 hidden root cause. The truth is, what's happening with your metabolic health and hormones is the biggest factor, and it's something you can control. Your hair is a powerful window into your internal health, and thinning is often the first visible sign of a deeper imbalance.

In this episode of the Dr. Hyman Show, I dive deep into the surprising root causes of hair loss for both men and women. I explain why the conventional approach often fails and how a functional medicine perspective, which treats hair loss from the inside out, can help you restore not just your hair, but your overall health.

In this special Health Bites episode, you will discover:

The #1 Hidden Cause: Insulin Resistance. A diet high in sugar and starch leads to insulin resistance, which is the primary driver of the hormonal imbalances that cause hair loss in both men and women.

The Hormone Connection (DHT): High insulin levels stimulate an enzyme called 5-alpha reductase, which converts testosterone into the hair-shrinking hormone DHT. DHT is what binds to hair follicles, causing them to shrink and become dormant.

The Link to Belly Fat & PCOS: Excess body fat and conditions like PCOS upregulate the 5-alpha reductase enzyme, leading to higher DHT levels, hair loss on the scalp, and unwanted hair growth elsewhere.

Other Critical Root Causes: Learn how chronic inflammation, key nutrient deficiencies (like iron, zinc, and protein), and even food sensitivities like gluten can be major triggers for hair loss.

What was the most surprising root cause of hair loss you learned about today? Let us know in the comments below! 👇

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(0:00) Introduction to hair loss: hormonal imbalances and functional medicine solutions (3:24) Hair loss patterns and the role of insulin resistance in men and women
(7:28) Factors influencing hair loss: inflammation, nutrient deficiencies, and five alpha reductase activity
(11:22) Hair loss during pregnancy, aging, and due to autoimmune diseases
(14:56) External factors affecting hair loss: medications and environmental toxins
(16:06) Conclusion and call to action