Creatine causes hair loss.

Question

The link between potential hair loss and creatine first appeared in 2009 in a publication in the Clinical Journal of Sport Medicine about research conducted by Johan van der Merwe. 

https://insparya.es/creatine-cause-balness/?lang=en 

Answer 1

Creatine has been associated with an increase in dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels, which is a hormone linked to hair loss. However, there is not enough research on this topic and current evidence does not definitively prove that creatine directly causes hair loss. Some studies have shown an increase in DHT levels with creatine use, which could potentially contribute to hair loss in individuals genetically predisposed to it but more research is needed to fully understand this question.

https://www.treatmentroomslondon.com/hair-loss/does-creatine-cause-hair-loss/

https://www.healthline.com/health/creatine-hair-loss#see-a-doctor

Comments

I like that you show you've done enough research to specify the specific hormone linked with the connection between hair loss and creatine. You could be a little more clear about where the information came from that you were referencing.

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I think your sources here are good and all, but you need to make sure you know where your information is coming from. I don't think you were clear on referencing it. Other than that good job on having two sources and providing information that you know.

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This is a good fact check because it doesn't rely on saying a yes or no to the claim and admits there are some connections but it is not guaranteed information and even the sources used aren't exactly the strongest.

Answer 2

There is no available information or connection between creatine and hair loss. According to VeryWellHealth, "Hair loss can be caused by factors such as hormone changes, genetics, autoimmune conditions, illness, life events such as pregnancy, nutritional deficiencies, scalp conditions, and other considerations." Creatine side effects include water retention, nausea, diarrhea, dehydration, and muscle cramps. Although a 2009 study found that creatine supplements increased DHT, which can lead to hair loss, the study has not been replicated since.

Comments

I like that your fact check gets straight to the point. The quote included is from a reliable source which adds to your credibility. You did a good job of not fully dismissing the claim by pointing out the relevance of the 2009 study.

Answer 3

The belief that creatine supplementation leads to hair loss is not supported by substantial scientific evidence. This concern originates from a 2009 study involving college-aged rugby players, which reported a 56% increase in dihydrotestosterone (DHT) levels after seven days of creatine loading, with levels remaining 40% above baseline after 14 days of maintenance dosing. However, it's important to say that this study did not directly assess hair loss among participants. Twelve other studies examining the effects of creatine supplementation on testosterone had not replicated the results of the 2009 study. Moreover, no studies have reported hair loss in individuals taking creatine supplements. Given the current evidence, there is no direct link between creatine use and hair loss. People concerned about hair loss should consider other factors, such as genetics and overall health, which play larger roles in hair thinning or hair loss. Creatine is a safe supplement to take that has a large number of benefits such as muscle gain, increased athletic performance, brain function, brain performance, and many other benefits as well. 

Sources:

- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19741313/

- https://www.verywellhealth.com/does-creatine-cause-hair-loss-8402045?

- https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/treatments/17674-creatine