DHEA | What Are The Benefits?

It’s no secret that as we age, some body function begin to slow down. One of these functions include the production of hormones like DHEA. But, what does that mean for us and our bodies? And how does DHEA affect aging? We’re going over these topics and more!

What is DHEA?

Before we get into any of the more complicated topic, let’s go over the basics. Dehydroepiandrosterone, or DHEA, is a hormone naturally produced in the body by your adrenal glands, which are located above your kidneys. DHEA’s most recognized function is as a precursor to testosterone and estrogen. Basically meaning the body can convert it into either hormone.  However, DHEA/DHEAS play a much larger role in our bodies than as a precursor. In fact, DHEA plays a major role in development, including neurodevelopment! Unfortunately, DHEA declines with ageing and is now linked to ageing-related neurodegeneration, which is characterized by gradual cognitive decline. (1)

How Does It Work

Dehydroepiandrosterone/DHEA/5-androsten-3β-ol-17-one is a naturally occurring C-19 adrenal steroid derived from cholesterol. As we mentioned, this hormone is produced from the adrenal glands, however, it is not only secreted here. In fact, 75-90% of secretion is produced the synthesizing DHEA from Cholesterol at the adrenal cortex. While the remainder is secreted from the testes and ovaries. (2)

The body converts most of its DHEA into androstenedione. But the metabolism doesn’t stop there; instead, the body converts it to a wide array of androgens and estrogens,  testosterone and estradiol. These hormones are important for maintaining high energy levels, a strong metabolism, heart, brain and bone health.

 

Benefits

Generally, a lot of research on  the positive effects from DHEA in men indicate that this supplementation may be most useful in those who have low levels of the hormone. Because DHEA levels decrease with age, evidence shows that adults over the age of 30 benefit more from DHEA than other consumers. This is when many adults start to experience weight gain, sluggishness, lowered libido and other symptoms caused by higher levels of inflammation. But, overall research indicates DHEA supplementation can be effective for increasing testosterone levels (3).

 

 

Due to this, we recommend you also take a supplement with an aromatase inhibitor such as Estrogenex, By Hi-Tech Pharmaceuticals. Inhibition of the aromatase enzyme has been proven to reduce the production of estrogen. By stacking these two supplements you’ll get the effects of a natural test booster that you’re looking for. As a result this will aid in fat loss, muscle growth, increasing strength, and improving your overall health. Along with increasing testosterone and anti-aging effects, some of the other benefits of DHEA include:

• Increase in growth hormone
• Improve bone density
• Promote heart health
• Control cholesterol levels
• Fight fatigue
• Lower inflammation
• Aid in recovery 
• Increase in glucose metabolism/utilization of glucose
• Improving mood and memory

 

DHEA Dosing:

Individual needs and results will vary. It’s best to take in low doses at first to give your body time to acclimate, and then gradually increase the amount over several months. DHEA appears to be effective for most consumers in the dosage range of 25–50mg with many clinical studies indicating using 50 mg/day for women and 100 mg/day for men.(2)

Suggested Usage: Take 1 capsule daily with a meal or as directed by your qualified healthcare provider. However, it isn’t for everyone, and it isn’t a magic bullet. Be sure to consult with your medical provider before taking DHEA supplements.

PLEASE NOTE:

†The intention of the information provided is for reference only and we are in no way providing medical advice or instruction. The information provided in this post is based on anecdotal information and available studies/reviews. While it is our goal to maintain and display accurate information, we can’t guarantee it represents the latest formulation of the product or information. Therefore, if you have any concerns, please visit the manufacturer’s website. Also, the information above is not a representation of our views at Same Day Supplements. Rather, these are the views and information provided by manufacturers and users. Also, the Food and Drug Administration has not evaluated these statements. Finally, the intention of these products is not to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease or illness.