DHEA, short for dehydroepiandrosterone, is an important hormone that is produced naturally by the adrenal glands. Often called the "youth hormone," DHEA levels peak around age 25 and steadily decline as we get older.
What does DHEA do?
DHEA serves several vital functions:
In supplement form, DHEA is sometimes used to help address conditions like adrenal insufficiency, depression, osteoporosis, and even sexual dysfunction. However, it's important to note that more research still needs to be done on the efficacy and safety of DHEA supplementation.
What causes low DHEA levels?
There are several potential causes of declining DHEA levels, including:
Some lifestyle factors like smoking and excessive alcohol intake can also deplete DHEA faster over time.
DHEA testing and treatment
If you're experiencing potential low DHEA symptoms like chronic fatigue, decreased sex drive, irritability, or bone loss after age 30-40, consider getting your DHEA sulfate (DHEAS) blood levels tested by a medical provider. This simple blood test can confirm whether your levels are suboptimal.
If your DHEA/DHEAS levels are low, supplementation may be an option, along with addressing any underlying conditions. We recommend speaking to your healthcare provider to determine the best treatment plan for your needs. The physicians at HormoneHealth Clinic specialize in customized hormone therapy to help both men and women optimize DHEA, testosterone, estrogen, thyroid, and other hormones for improved health. Contact us today for a consultation.
Can DHEA supplements help build muscle in athletes?
While some athletes and bodybuilders take DHEA hoping to boost testosterone and strength gains, most research to date has not found a clear performance-enhancing effect. Since it can convert to testosterone and estrogen, DHEA may interfere with the endocrine system and should be used cautiously under medical supervision. We do not recommend DHEA solely for muscle gain or athletic performance enhancement.
In summary, DHEA is a crucial, multifunctional hormone that declines naturally with age. Testing and addressing low levels under a doctor's care can alleviate certain symptoms. However, more research still needs to be done regarding long-term DHEA supplementation. Talk to your healthcare provider to find out if DHEA testing or treatment could benefit your health.