DHEA is an acronym for the hormone dehydroepiandrosterone.
It is the most plentiful androgenic hormone produced by the adrenal
glands and it is quite important to body builders and athletes because
in men, around 50% of all testosterone is derived from it, while women
derive over 75% of their estrogen from it and nearly 100% after
menopause. Levels of DHEA are quite high at birth, drop during
childhood, and peak during young adulthood. The levels continue to
drop throughout life.
DHEA is HOT, and you will see why. As a pre-cursor hormone, as it
leads to the production of other hormones. When this compound is
supplemented, it has been shown to have awesome effects. Although the
methods by which it actually works are not fully understood, research
shows it may be a sort of fountain of youth, slowing the aging
process. It has also been shown to help people lose weight, burn fat
and build muscle, and increase sex drive. Dietary supplements of DHEA
can help maintain proper levels in the body and can aid a person in
their overall well being. University of California, San Francisco
researchers found that DHEA levels are lower in people who are
depressed, and supplements of 30-90mg per day reportedly improved
their state.
Is there enough that can be said about DHEA? Apparently not. It may
also have positive effects on reducing cancer risk, controlling
immunity, regulating blood sugar levels, reducing blood pressure, and
decrease allergic states. Research also shows that in limited trials,
may help to increase lean muscle mass, elevate function of the immune
system, lower cholesterol, and have reversing effects on diabetes.
Because DHEA levels decrease with age, people above middle age can
have incredible results as the studies above have shown. It can aid
people that suffer from depression and lupus; but, importantly, body
builders or athletes can have some of the greatest beneficial results.
They can use it to help build strong muscles and lower body fat. It is
also said to help keep the brain clear and the skin smooth as well!
When used in the correct dosages, DHEA is great. But, with any kind or
hormone or compound, when used incorrectly it can cause problems. The
exact right dosage may vary with each individual, so consulting a
physician is probably a good idea. But, a good recommendation to start
with is between 5-25mg daily. Women and men over age 60 are commonly
prescribed 50mg and 100mg, respectively. Obviously since younger
people produce more DHEA naturally, they should take less. Pregnant or
nursing women should not take it.
