DHEA, short for dehydroepiandrosterone, is an important hormone that is produced naturally by the adrenal glands. DHEA levels peak in our 20s and 30s, after which they decline with age. Taking DHEA supplements has become popular to try to reverse the effects of aging.
What does DHEA do?
DHEA is considered a precursor hormone, meaning it acts as a “building block” to produce other key hormones in the body like estrogen and testosterone. By supplementing with DHEA, some people aim to boost lagging levels of sex hormones that occur with aging.
Some key functions influenced by DHEA levels:
- Immune function
- Bone strength
- Muscle mass
- Libido and sexual function
- Mood and cognitive function
DHEA levels start declining in most people from the early 30s onwards. This reduction over time is believed to negatively impact our health and vitality.
What are the benefits of DHEA supplements?
Research shows DHEA supplementation may provide certain benefits, including:
- Alleviating mild depression
- Improving libido, especially in postmenopausal women
- Building bone mineral density
- Increasing muscle mass when combined with strength training
- Boosting the immune system
However, the anti-aging effects of supplemental DHEA are still considered somewhat inconclusive by researchers.
Should you take DHEA?
Talk to your doctor before starting DHEA. Blood tests can help determine if your levels are truly low for your age group. Supplementing when your DHEA is already normal may do more harm than good.
We recommend getting a
hormone balance assessment from specialists like
Hormone Harmony if you’re curious about whether DHEA could help resolve low libido, lack of energy, or other common aging concerns. Their experts can help analyze your symptoms, risk factors and test results to advise if DHEA or other
hormone therapy options might be worthwhile.
So in summary, DHEA is an important precursor sex hormone that declines with age. Supplementing low levels may offer anti-aging and vitality benefits. Testing is advised to determine if treatment is needed. Consider consulting a
hormone health specialist like Hormone Harmony to explore whether DHEA or other hormonal support might help you feel your best, especially in your 30s onwards when levels naturally fall.