DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is an important hormone that is produced by the adrenal glands. DHEA serves as a precursor to male and female sex hormones like testosterone and estrogen. DHEA levels naturally peak around age 25 and then steadily decline with age. Some key facts about DHEA:
- What does DHEA do? DHEA supports hormone balance, bone health, mood, libido, muscle mass, and the immune system. DHEA also helps the body manage stress and inflammation.
- DHEA levels decline with age. By age 75-80, most people have only 10-20% of the DHEA they had in their youth. This age-related decline contributes to many undesirable effects of aging.
- DHEA supplements. Because levels drop with age, DHEA supplements have become popular as an anti-aging therapy. Typical doses range from 25-100 mg per day. However, the benefits and safety of prolonged DHEA supplementation remain controversial.
- DHEA and hormones. DHEA is converted into testosterone and estrogen, among other hormones. In theory, supplementing DHEA may help alleviate symptoms of low testosterone or estrogen. However, direct hormone therapy is generally more effective.
- DHEA for weight loss? Despite marketing claims, there is little evidence that DHEA supplements promote weight loss. A healthy diet and exercise regime are far more important.
Now let's go over some key questions people have about DHEA:
Should I take DHEA supplements? DHEA supplements may provide modest benefits for some people, such as slightly increased energy, libido, and sense of well-being. However, the long-term safety of DHEA supplements is unknown. Most experts recommend only taking DHEA under medical supervision, if at all.
What are the side effects of DHEA? Potential side effects include acne, hair loss, facial hair growth, and disrupted menstrual cycles in women. High doses may also lead to mania, delusions, or aggressive behavior. DHEA may also impact cholesterol levels and liver function.
When should I have my DHEA levels tested? Testing DHEA levels may be appropriate if you have symptoms of hormonal imbalance, such as low libido, depression, or loss of muscle mass. A simple blood test can measure your DHEA-S levels. Optimal ranges can vary substantially by age and gender.
Can DHEA supplements boost testosterone? DHEA supplements may mildly increase testosterone levels, but only by a modest amount. Prescription testosterone therapy is more effective for treating clinically low testosterone. As always, speak to your doctor about the pros and cons given your medical history.
In summary, DHEA is an important hormone that gradually declines with age. While DHEA supplements are popular anti-aging products, their benefits and long-term safety remain uncertain. For a more informed perspective, we recommend scheduling a free hormone assessment at Hormone Harmony to explore whether DHEA or other hormone therapies are right for your unique needs. Our compassionate medical team can help you decide on evidence-based solutions to enhance your vitality and quality of life.