Male pattern baldness, or androgenic alopecia, affects a large portion of men worldwide. For those undergoing testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), the concern of accelerated hair loss looms larger due to the link between testosterone, its derivative hormones, and the health of hair follicles. In her latest video, urologist Dr. Rena Malik offers a comprehensive breakdown of the science behind TRT and its effects on hair loss, exploring whether men on TRT is making more men bald.

What Causes Hair Loss?

Hair loss is a multifaceted issue influenced by:

• Genetics: A significant determinant of baldness. A family history of hair loss can be an early indicator of susceptibility.
• Hormonal Imbalances: Testosterone and its byproducts, particularly dihydrotestosterone (DHT), play a pivotal role.
• Stress and Lifestyle Factors: Poor nutrition, certain medications, and grooming habits like tying hair tightly can weaken follicles over time.
• Age: The risk of hair thinning and baldness increases with age due to the cumulative impact of hormonal changes and environmental factors.

How Does Testosterone Affect Hair?

Testosterone, a vital hormone for male health, is partially converted into dihydrotestosterone (DHT) within the body, typically at a rate of 6 to 8 percent per day. DHT is essential during puberty, contributing to the development of secondary sexual characteristics like body hair and pubic hair.

However, as Dr. Malik explains, DHT’s relationship with hair is not straightforward. While DHT is responsible for promoting hair growth in some areas, it can contribute to hair follicle shrinkage and eventual loss on the scalp.

Key Points:

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• Men genetically predisposed to hair loss are more likely to experience male pattern baldness due to DHT.
• TRT, by increasing testosterone levels, may also raise DHT levels, potentially accelerating hair loss in those already susceptible.
• Research indicates that among transgender men undergoing TRT, only 5 to 17 percent develop alopecia in their first year, and most cases are mild.

Reports suggest TRT is making more men bald

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Is Hair Loss a Guaranteed Side Effect of TRT?

Hair loss is not inevitable for all men on TRT. According to Dr. Malik, while TRT can increase the risk of male pattern baldness, it primarily affects men who are already genetically predisposed. The extent of hair loss varies widely, influenced by individual genetic factors and hormonal responses.

For men concerned about hair loss, it’s essential to weigh the benefits of TRT—such as improved energy levels, libido, and overall well-being—against the potential cosmetic side effects.

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Managing Hair Loss During TRT

If hair loss becomes a concern, there are steps you can take to address it:

1. Consult a Dermatologist: A specialist can help identify the underlying causes of hair loss and recommend treatments.
2. Medications: Options like finasteride or minoxidil may slow down or reverse hair thinning by targeting DHT or stimulating follicle activity.
3. Lifestyle Adjustments: A healthy diet rich in vitamins and minerals essential for hair health can make a difference.
4. Alternative Therapies: Emerging treatments like platelet-rich plasma (PRP) therapy and low-level laser therapy offer additional avenues for hair restoration.

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Balancing Benefits and Concerns

Dr. Malik underscores that the benefits of testosterone replacement therapy often outweigh the potential for hair loss, particularly for those who are already predisposed to baldness. She recommends that men who notice signs of hair thinning, whether on TRT or not, seek professional advice to explore viable treatment options.

Ultimately, TRT is a personal decision. Understanding the interplay between testosterone, DHT, and hair health empowers men to make informed choices about their bodies and well-being.

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No matter where you are on your fitness journey, staying patient can often feel like one of the biggest challenges. The desire to fast-track your progress, to reach that finish line—whether literally or figuratively—as soon as possible is a common one. After all, who doesn’t crave the sense of accomplishment that comes with hitting new personal records or seeing tangible results in the gym? But as the saying goes, “There’s no magic pill for immediate gratification.” If achieving your fitness goals were easy, it wouldn’t be called “work.”

It’s easy to feel discouraged if the results you’re after don’t appear immediately. However, it’s important to recognize that many positive changes are happening behind the scenes, even if they’re not visible just yet.

The timeline for seeing results from a workout routine varies widely from person to person. “There are numerous factors that contribute to these timelines,” says Kurt Ellis, C.S.C.S., owner and coach at Beyond Numbers Performance. “Factors such as genetics, age, gender, type of training program, and lifestyle indicators can impact how soon someone will see changes.”

How Long Does It Take to See Results from Working Out?

One might assume that seasoned gym-goers see results faster because of their experience, but this isn’t always the case. Ellis explains that beginners often experience quicker results than more advanced athletes due to their lower baseline fitness level and training age. If you’re a beginner, think of it like starting at the bottom of a ladder with more rungs to climb, each representing progress. On the other hand, advanced athletes may have already reached some of those rungs, meaning they have less distance to travel to reach new heights.

In the early stages of strength training, beginners often experience what’s known as “newbie gains,” which are rapid improvements in strength and, to a lesser extent, muscle growth. However, these gains are temporary, and progress will naturally slow down as you continue training.

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A commonly referenced study from 2009 suggests it takes at least 18 days for someone to form a habit after deciding to change their behaviour. This applies to athletes of all levels, so consider this timeframe your first benchmark for progress. Deciding to make a change and sticking to it is an accomplishment worth celebrating in itself.

Typically, tangible changes, such as improvements in body composition or resting heart rate, become noticeable within two to six weeks, according to Ellis. For beginners, this timeframe is roughly two to four weeks, while for more seasoned athletes, it can take four to six weeks or more. Again, the concept of “newbie gains” plays a role here, with beginners seeing rapid strength improvements initially, followed by a plateau where progress continues but at a slower rate.

READ MORE: 5 Lifestyle Tweaks to Slash Your Cholesterol in Half

Signs You’re Getting Fitter

Weight loss might be a common goal, but the number on the scale isn’t the only metric that matters. There are many other signs that you’re getting fitter, even if the scale doesn’t reflect it right away.

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1. Neurological Adaptations

The initial results from your workouts often happen at an imperceptible, cellular level. When you challenge your body with new or difficult tasks—whether it’s trying a new sport, learning a yoga pose, or starting a workout routine—your brain creates new neural pathways to signal your body to perform in ways it hasn’t before. These neurological adaptations are critical for improving strength, coordination, motor learning, and overall performance.

Ellis emphasizes that “neural plasticity,” or the brain’s ability to adapt and evolve, allows you to continue developing new pathways throughout your fitness journey. To strengthen these neural pathways, it’s beneficial to incorporate a variety of movements and training stimuli into your routine.

2. Increased Energy

One of the earliest changes people notice after starting a fitness routine is an increase in energy levels. Just as strength training causes microtears in your muscles that help them grow stronger, exerting yourself during a workout signals your body to produce more mitochondria—the powerhouses of your cells—boosting your overall energy levels.

3. Improved Mood

Exercise is well-known for its mood-boosting effects, thanks to the release of endorphins, the body’s “feel-good” hormones. While all forms of physical activity trigger endorphin release, research is still evolving on which types of exercise and intensities produce the most significant effects. A 2017 study published in the journal Neuropsychopharmacology suggests that high-intensity training might be particularly effective for achieving that coveted “exercise high.”

4. Better Sleep

Another benefit you might notice fairly early on in your fitness journey is improved sleep quality. Adequate rest is crucial for maintaining motivation and long-term success in any training program. According to a 2013 study, sleep plays a significant role in overall health and fitness progress.

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Quantitative Benchmarks to Track Progress

In addition to lifestyle improvements like increased energy and better sleep, more measurable benchmarks can help you track your fitness progress.

For strength training, tracking progress against absolute strength—often measured by the one-rep max (1RM) test—is a common method. This involves lifting the heaviest weight you can manage in a single exercise, such as a bench press or squat, for one full repetition with proper form. If you’re new to strength training, you might opt for a three to five rep total instead, using a training load chart to estimate your one-rep max.

For those with endurance and cardio-focused goals, VO2 max is the standard metric used to measure progress. VO2 max assesses how efficiently your body uses oxygen during exercise. While accurate tracking typically requires lab equipment, many fitness trackers and smartwatches now offer VO2 max estimates, allowing you to monitor your progress over time.

The Importance of SMART Goals

Setting SMART (Specific, Measurable, Attainable, Realistic, Time-bound) goals can make a significant difference in your fitness journey. “Athletes typically see long-term, sustainable results when they include process goals along the way to their big-picture goals,” says Ellis.

Achieving a goal like getting stronger or building muscle requires more than just working out. “Highlighting the importance of sleep quality, proper nutrition, and community support can set habits that change your overall well-being for the better,” says Ellis. By viewing your workout routine as just one part of a comprehensive healthy lifestyle, you’ll find it easier to stay patient and motivated.

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For more insights and advice on staying on track with your fitness goals, visit What’s Hot in UAE. Keep celebrating your small wins, and remember that progress, no matter how slow, is still progress.

If you’re on a mission to Slash Your Cholesterol in Half, the good news is that you don’t need to overhaul your life entirely. With a few strategic lifestyle adjustments, you can make a significant impact on your heart health. Here’s how to get started.

1. Revamp Your Diet with Heart-Healthy Foods

Your diet is the cornerstone of cholesterol management. To make a real difference, load up on foods rich in soluble fibre, like oats, beans, and apples. These powerhouses help block cholesterol absorption in your bloodstream. And while you’re at it, cut back on saturated and trans fats—often hiding in red meat, full-fat dairy, and processed snacks. Swap them out for healthier fats found in avocados, nuts, and olive oil. Think of it as feeding your heart the good stuff while crowding out the bad.

2. Move More to Improve Your Numbers

Exercise isn’t just for shedding pounds—it’s a direct line to better cholesterol levels. Regular physical activity can raise your HDL (the good cholesterol) and lower LDL (the bad cholesterol) and triglycerides. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate activity each week—brisk walks, cycling, or even dancing in your living room counts. And don’t forget strength training a couple of times a week to maximize your results.

3. Embrace a Balanced Weight

Shedding even a few pounds can have a profound impact on your cholesterol levels. If you’re carrying extra weight, particularly around your midsection, it might be time to focus on a balanced, calorie-conscious diet and up your activity levels. You don’t need to aim for perfection—just a 5 to 10% reduction in body weight can make a big difference.

4. Rethink Your Relationship with Alcohol

While that evening glass of wine might have some heart benefits, moderation is key. Overdoing it with alcohol can lead to higher cholesterol levels and other health risks. Keep it to one drink per day if you’re a woman, and two if you’re a man, to maintain that balance between enjoying life and protecting your heart.

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5. Explore Medication Options with Your Doctor

Sometimes, diet and exercise aren’t enough, and that’s okay. If your cholesterol levels remain stubbornly high, it might be time to talk to your healthcare provider about medications like statins. These drugs can help reduce the amount of cholesterol your liver produces, giving your efforts a powerful boost.

Wrapping It Up

Cutting your cholesterol in half might seem like a tall order, but with these manageable lifestyle tweaks, you’re well on your way to a healthier heart. Remember, it’s about making smarter choices every day—whether it’s what you eat, how you move, or how you manage your health with your doctor’s guidance. After all, your heart is worth it.

READ MORE: Maximizing Results in the Gym: The Power of Patience

For more tips on living your healthiest life, and to stay updated on the latest health and wellness trends, visit What’s Hot in UAE. Your journey to better health starts with the first step, so why not take it today?

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