A recent study published in Nutrients reveals a link between sugary drinks and male pattern baldness. Researchers conducted a study of 1,028 men in mainland China and found that those who drink more than one serving of sugary beverages per day have a higher risk of losing their hair. This study is preliminary and more research is needed to fully understand the link.
The authors of the study also examined other factors, such as lifestyle habits, psychological issues, and dietary intake. After adjusting for these factors, the results were still significant. However, further studies are needed to determine whether the relationship between SSB consumption and MPHL is causal.
For the study, researchers conducted an online survey that collected information from participants. Several types of individuals were excluded from the study: adults who were not employed, those who did not have internet access, those who did not have access to medical records, and those who had low educational attainment. Most of the men reported drinking some sweetened beverages on a daily basis.
Participants were asked about their medical history and any previous hair loss. The results showed that men who suffered from hair loss tended to drink more than those who did not. They also ate more fried foods and less vegetables. Those who had a higher rate of drinking were less likely to have a healthy weight.
One of the most common causes of male pattern baldness is a high-fat diet. Several other factors may also contribute, including the type of beverages consumed. Studies have shown that sugary beverages are one of the main causes of diabetes. In addition, studies have shown that elevated blood sugar is linked to hair loss.
The findings of the study are not surprising, as doctors have long suspected that excessive sugar consumption is linked to male pattern baldness. The World Health Organization recommends that free sugars should be consumed no more than 10% of total energy intake. Additionally, the WHO suggests further reductions to less than 5% of total energy intake.
Using a self-reported online survey, the study measured the daily consumption of sweetened beverages by men in mainland China. While the majority of participants drank some sweetened beverages on a regular basis, more than half of them drank more than one a day. Nearly two-thirds of those who drank more than a single serving were overweight. Although the study did not isolate the degree of MPHL, results did show that almost all SSB subtypes have a negative effect on MPHL.
Researchers used a binary logistic regression model to evaluate the relationships between SSB intake and MPHL. This model was adjusted for confounders such as diet, PTSD, and meat consumption. Finally, the results were analyzed using forest plots to visualize the data. It is important to note that this study is only preliminary, and more in-depth studies are required to confirm or reject the link between sugary drinks and hair loss.
In the meantime, researchers urge people to avoid sugary drinks for health reasons. Instead, they suggest drinking water, sparkling water, or sparkling tea.
