The androgen hormone dihydrotestosterone (DHT) has been linked with changes in hair loss. It’s been questioned for quite some time now if there is a correlation between exercise and DHT levels. The hormone is made in the adrenal glands and affects the testes, prostate and hair follicles.

According to a study published on the National Institute of Health’s PubMed, exercise does have the potential to increase DHT levels. The study was conducted in 2008 and consisted of 102 men who were between the ages of 45 and 75. They were all sedentary prior to the research. They were then divided into two different groups, one that started exercises at home and in the testing facility. They completed an hour a day of moderate-intensity to high-intensity exercise for six days out of the week. The other group did not change the amount of exercise they received. The study lasted 12 months and indicated there was not a significant difference in levels of other hormones like estradiol, testosterone and 3alpha-Diol-G. On the other hand, the group that increased the amount of exercise did exhibit an increase in DHT. However, there are many benefits of exercise and there are other factors involved that could affect the amount of hair a person has.

Research shows there may be a link between exercise and rising DHT levels. This does not mean a person should not partake in exercise to keep a full head of hair because exercise is still essential to your health.