DHEA Benefits : The Truth About This ‘Fountain of Youth’ Supplement

Introduction

Dehydroepiandrosterone, commonly known as DHEA, has been making waves in the health and wellness community for years. Often touted as a “fountain of youth” supplement, it has piqued the interest of those looking to combat aging, boost energy, and improve overall well-being. But what exactly is DHEA, and does it live up to the hype? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the science behind it, its potential benefits, and what you need to know before considering it as a supplement.

What is DHEA?

Dehydroepiandrosterone is a hormone produced naturally by the adrenal glands, located just above the kidneys. It serves as a precursor to both male and female sex hormones, including testosterone and estrogen. DHEA levels typically peak in early adulthood and gradually decline with age, leading some researchers to investigate its potential role in the aging process (Rutkowski et al., 2014).

Key Facts About DHEA:

1. It’s the most abundant circulating steroid hormone in humans.
2. Dehydroepiandrosterone levels decline by about 80% between ages 25 and 75.
3. It’s sometimes referred to as a “parent hormone” due to its role in producing other hormones.

The Role of DHEA in the Body

Vital roles in the body, including:

• Hormone Production: Dehydroepiandrosterone is converted into testosterone and estrogen, which are essential for sexual function and reproductive health.
• Metabolism Regulation: It influences how the body metabolizes fats and carbohydrates, impacting weight management and energy levels.
• Immune Function: Dehydroepiandrosterone has been shown to enhance immune responses, potentially helping to fend off infections and diseases.
• Mood and Cognitive Function: Research suggests that DHEA may have a positive effect on mood and cognitive abilities, potentially reducing symptoms of depression and anxiety.

The Potential Benefits of DHEA

Research into DHEA has revealed a range of potential benefits, though it’s important to note that many studies are still in their early stages. Here are some of the most promising areas of  research:

1. Anti-Aging Effects

One of the primary reasons for DHEA’s popularity is its potential anti-aging properties. Some studies suggest that DHEA supplementation may help improve skin hydration, reduce wrinkles, and increase bone density in older adults (Baulieu et al., 2000).

2. Cognitive Function

It has been linked to potential improvements in cognitive function, particularly in older adults. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that DHEA supplementation was associated with improved episodic memory performance in healthy young men (Alhaj et al., 2006).

3. Mood Enhancement

Some research indicates that Dehydroepiandrosterone may have mood-enhancing properties. A study in the Archives of General Psychiatry found that DHEA treatment significantly reduced depressive symptoms in patients with HIV/AIDS (Rabkin et al., 2006).

4. Increased Muscle Mass and Strength

Dehydroepiandrosterone has been investigated for its potential to increase muscle mass and strength, particularly in older adults. A study in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that DHEA supplementation increased muscle mass and strength in elderly men and women (Villareal & Holloszy, 2004).

5. Bone Density

Declining Dehydroepiandrosteronelevels have been associated with reduced bone density, particularly in postmenopausal women. Some studies suggest that DHEA supplementation may help improve bone mineral density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis (von Mühlen et al., 2008).

6. Libido and Sexual Function

Dehydroepiandrosterone has been studied for its potential to improve libido and sexual function, particularly in older adults and those with hormonal imbalances. A study in the New England Journal of Medicine found that DHEA supplementation improved sexual function and well-being in women with adrenal insufficiency (Arlt et al., 1999).

DHEA and Exercise Performance

Athletes and fitness enthusiasts have shown interest in DHEA for its potential to enhance exercise performance. While research in this area is limited, some studies have explored the effects of DHEA on athletic performance:

1. A study in the Journal of Applied Physiology found that DHEA supplementation improved exercise capacity in middle-aged men (Jedrzejuk et al., 2003).
2. Another study in the European Journal of Applied Physiology reported that DHEA supplementation enhanced the effects of high-intensity interval training in young men (Liu et al., 2013).

However, it’s important to note that DHEA is banned by many sports organizations, including the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA), due to its potential performance-enhancing effects.

Potential Risks and Side Effects

While Dehydroepiandrosterone shows promise in various areas of health and wellness, it’s not without potential risks and side effects. Some concerns associated with DHEA supplementation include:

1. Hormonal imbalances
2. Acne and oily skin
3. Hair loss
4. Mood changes
5. Increased risk of certain cancers (theoretical risk based on its hormonal effects)

It’s crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any DHEA supplementation regimen, as individual responses can vary greatly.

DHEA Dosage and Administration

The optimal dosage of Dehydroepiandrosterone can vary depending on factors such as age, gender, and specific health goals. Typical doses used in research studies range from 25 to 200 mg per day, but it’s essential to work with a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate dosage for your individual needs.

DHEA is available in various forms, including:

1. Oral supplements (capsules or tablets)
2. Topical creams
3. Sublingual drops

The choice of administration method can affect how Dehydroepiandrosterone is metabolized and utilized by the body, so it’s important to consider this when choosing a supplement.

Natural Ways to Boost DHEA Levels

For those who prefer not to use supplements, there are several natural ways to potentially boost DHEA levels:

1. Regular exercise, particularly high-intensity interval training
2. Stress reduction techniques like meditation and yoga
3. Adequate sleep and proper sleep hygiene
4. A balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals
5. Limiting alcohol consumption and avoiding smoking

The Future of DHEA Research

As interest in Dehydroepiandrosterone continues to grow, researchers are exploring its potential in various areas of health and medicine. Some promising areas of future research include:

1. DHEA’s role in autoimmune diseases
2. Its potential as a neuroprotective agent in conditions like Alzheimer’s disease
3. The long-term effects of DHEA supplementation on aging and longevity
4. Its potential use in treating certain types of cancer

Conclusion

Dehydroepiandrosterone is a fascinating hormone with a wide range of potential benefits, from anti-aging effects to improvements in cognitive function and physical performance. While the research is promising, it’s important to approach DHEA supplementation with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.

As we continue to unravel the mysteries of this “fountain of youth” hormone, it’s clear that DHEA will remain a topic of interest in the health and wellness community for years to come. Whether through supplementation or natural methods of boosting DHEA levels, this hormone offers an intriguing avenue for those looking to optimize their health and well-being as they age.

Remember, while Dehydroepiandrosterone shows promise, it’s not a magic bullet. A holistic approach to health, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, stress management, and proper sleep, remains the foundation of overall wellness and longevity.

Written by : Farokh Shabbir

References

1. Alhaj, H. A., Massey, A. E., & McAllister-Williams, R. H. (2006). Effects of DHEA administration on episodic memory, cortisol and mood in healthy young men: a double-blind, placebo-controlled study. Psychopharmacology, 188(4), 541-551.
2. Arlt, W., Callies, F., van Vlijmen, J. C., Koehler, I., Reincke, M., Bidlingmaier, M., … & Allolio, B. (1999). Dehydroepiandrosterone replacement in women with adrenal insufficiency. New England Journal of Medicine, 341(14), 1013-1020.
3. Baulieu, E. E., Thomas, G., Legrain, S., Lahlou, N., Roger, M., Debuire, B., … & Forette, F. (2000). Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), DHEA sulfate, and aging: contribution of the DHEAge Study to a sociobiomedical issue. Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 97(8), 4279-4284.
4. Jedrzejuk, D., Medras, M., Milewicz, A., & Demissie, M. (2003). Dehydroepiandrosterone replacement in healthy men with age-related decline of DHEA-S: effects on fat distribution, insulin sensitivity and lipid metabolism. The Aging Male, 6(3), 151-156.
5. Liu, T. C., Lin, C. H., Huang, C. Y., Ivy, J. L., & Kuo, C. H. (2013). Effect of acute DHEA administration on free testosterone in middle-aged and young men following high-intensity interval training. European Journal of Applied Physiology, 113(7), 1783-1792.
6. Rabkin, J. G., McElhiney, M. C., Rabkin, R., McGrath, P. J., & Ferrando, S. J. (2006). Placebo-controlled trial of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) for treatment of nonmajor depression in patients with HIV/AIDS. American Journal of Psychiatry, 163(1), 59-66.
7. Rutkowski, K., Sowa, P., Rutkowska-Talipska, J., Kuryliszyn-Moskal, A., & Rutkowski, R. (2014). Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA): hypes and hopes. Drugs, 74(11), 1195-1207.
8. Villareal, D. T., & Holloszy, J. O. (2004). Effect of DHEA on abdominal fat and insulin action in elderly women and men: a randomized controlled trial. Jama, 292(18), 2243-2248.
9. von Mühlen, D., Laughlin, G. A., Kritz-Silverstein, D., Bergstrom, J., & Bettencourt, R. (2008). Effect of dehydroepiandrosterone supplementation on bone mineral density, bone markers, and body composition in older adults: the DAWN trial. Osteoporosis International, 19(5), 699-707.