Sex Hormone Binding Globulin and Hair Loss
Just wondering about your opinion on SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) and MPB. In short, I’ve read studies and theories stating SHBG binds to free testosterone reducing levels of DHT. I know exercise and low insulin have been shown to significantly increase SHBG. Perhaps exercise and a low-glycemic diet may be beneficial towards slowing or preventing hairloss.
The study below shows balding men had low levels of SHBG, unlike men without alopecia.
Sex hormone-binding globulin and saliva testosterone levels in men with androgenetic alopecia.
“Sex hormone binding globulin (SHBG), plasma testosterone and saliva testosterone were measured in sixty-four men with androgenetic alopecia and in forty males within the same age range without alopecia. There was a significant reduction in SHBG levels in bald men, compared with controls. Plasma testosterone levels were not raised in bald men, but their salivary testosterone levels were significantly higher than in controls.“
This is interesting stuff, but I do not know what value it brings for the balding man and woman. We will not exercise just to change SHBG levels. It makes for great academia.
Why didn’t this study include DHT in the blood assay?
Men with low SHBG will have higher levels of free testosterone. Extra free testosterone means more testosterone available to convert to DHT. Thus, one effect of low SHBG is elevated DHT.
James,
That is exactly what the study points to. We’re on the same page.
Not sure what Doctor Rassman’s exercise comment meant. Exercise increases glucose tolerance and therefore decreases insulin levels. That said, if you eat a high insulin diet, exercise will be outweighed by such a diet.