The majority of people are still under the impression that “male” pattern balding or “Andro” genetic alopecia is solely a function of male hormones, specifically DHT.

      The available data, which we’ve been disseminating for years, indicates that elevated levels of systemic estrogen plays a role as well, (Topical estrogen actually has a minimal prophylactic effect which borders on negligible).

      In this update we’ll succinctly explain why this is the case and what you can do to account for it in the treatment process.

      What is perceived as the single hormone “estrogen” is actually sub-grouped into 3 types, Estriol, Estradiol, and Estrone.

      Each has various roles and variations in potency, from weak to strong. Weak estrogens can displace strong ones at the receptor sites and vice versa. An excess of the stronger estrogens function to increase DHT.

      Fortunately Enterolactone a “human lignan” converted from dietary or supplement sources such as HMR lignan and Flaxmeal, can occupy these receptor sites, neutralizing this effect. Enterolactone raises testosterone, decreases the stronger estrogens, and reduces DHT. Enterolactone down-regulates 17B-HSD which reduces Androstendione and 5 alpha reductase (the same mechanism as Propecia/Avodart)

      Other dietary sources of these plant based weaker phytoestrogens include Soy isoflavones, resveratrol, and pomegranate.

      On the flip side stronger, more problematic, often carcinogenic, estrogen mimetics can be inadvertently obtained from environmental and dietary avenues as well such as parabens, plastics, pesticides, etc..(xenoestrogens).

      Again, these milder, plant based estrogen mimetics reduce the stronger estrogens which in high levels create problems for weight management, visceral fat accumulation, prostate enlargement, immune function and for our purposes, hair growth.

      As men age, testosterone declines, stonger estrogens, prolactin, and DHT increase.

      The hormonal goals for both health , hair retention and overall anti-aging purposes entail maintaining a high youthful level of testosterone, while keeping levels of androstendione, prolactin, DHT and stronger estrogens on the low end.

      Utilization of Enterolactone precursors such as Flaxmeal and/or 7HMR Spruce lignans, in conjunction with phytoestrogens from sources such as Soy Isoflavones, Resveratrol, Black Cohosh, and Pomegranate will optimize ones hormone profile and may preclude the need for using singular 5 alpha reductase inhibitors as a treatment for hair loss.