Daily Mail: Protein Deficiency in the Diet May Be a Cause of Patchy Beard Growth

A lack of protein and fats in the diet, as well as reduced sensitivity to the hormone dihydrotestosterone, may be among the causes of sparse beard growth in men, dermatologist Paul Farrant and nutritionist Amanda Serif said in an interview with the Daily Mail.

According to Farrant, the density of facial hair depends on the body’s sensitivity to dihydrotestosterone (DHT), a derivative of testosterone. DHT is produced in special target cells located in the testes, prostate, ovaries, and other organs, as well as in peripheral tissues such as the liver, skin, and hair follicles. This factor is genetically predetermined: the higher the sensitivity to DHT, the thicker the beard — but at the same time, the greater the risk of baldness.

The doctor noted that there are specific medications that can accelerate beard growth, but they should only be used under the supervision of a specialist. Nutritionist Serif added that in most cases, a simple adjustment of the diet can help.

“Good food is a beard’s best friend. Hair is made of protein, so to support its growth your body needs amino acids — for example, from meat, fish, lentils, and eggs,” she explained.

Serif also recommended including more healthy fats from mackerel, salmon, nuts, and avocados in the diet, as they are involved in hormone synthesis. To replenish vitamins and minerals, one should also consume oysters, pumpkin seeds, and whole grains.

The expert described dietary supplements as an ineffective means of stimulating beard growth. According to her, supplements can only accelerate hair growth if a confirmed deficiency is present in the body. She also warned that combining supplements with medicinal hair-growth products may be dangerous due to the risk of hypervitaminosis and incompatibility of active ingredients.

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