What Is It?
The steroid hormone DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) has been hyped as a supplement that will deliver the virtual fountain of youth, with extravagant claims that it can slow aging, melt away fat, enhance memory, prevent osteoporosis, and increase libido. Naturally produced and released by the adrenal glands, DHEA is ultimately converted into estrogen (the female sex hormone) and androgen (the male sex hormone).
With age, DHEA levels in the body naturally decline. Researchers are presently investigating whether these lower levels can explain certain age-related ailments--and whether taking DHEA supplements will keep them at bay. Specifically, scientists are examining DHEA’s power to protect against heart disease in older men, its ability to boost the immune system, and whether it can help in managing diabetes and easing lupus symptoms. The strongest evidence so far may be for DHEA’s power to enhance the quality of life of older people, increasing their energy level and ability to handle stress.
General Interaction
There are no known drug or nutrient interactions associated with DHEA.
Cautions
Although DHEA is sold in vitamin shops and health-food stores, keep in mind that it’s a powerful hormone. Only use it under a ***tor's supervision. Long-term effects remain to be ***ermined.
Before starting to take DHEA supplements, have a blood test to ***ermine your present level of this hormone. Only proceed if your level is low; healthy people under age 50 rarely need to take this supplement. Have another blood test three weeks after taking DHEA to ***ermine if a satisfactory DHEA blood level has been reached. Once within the normal range, revert to a maintenance dose (typically 5 to 10 mg a week).
Certain cancers are affected by hormone levels in the body. Before taking DHEA, have your ***tor check for hormone-related cancers such as prostate cancer and breast cancer. Don’t use DHEA if you are at risk for either of these cancers.
High levels of DHEA can cause very oily skin, ac |
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