DHEA - Balance Hormone Center

A Key Hormone for Aging and Health

DHEA, or dehydroepiandrosterone, is an important hormone produced naturally in the body. DHEA is considered a "prohormone" because it can be converted into other hormones like estrogen and testosterone.

Some key points about DHEA:

• DHEA levels peak in your late 20s/early 30s and then gradually decline with age. This decrease over time is believed to contribute to issues like low libido, loss of muscle mass, and bone mineral density.
• Supplementing with DHEA may help alleviate age-related decline in DHEA levels. However, research on its anti-aging benefits is mixed.
• DHEA supplements may improve mood, libido, bone mineral density, muscle mass, and strength in older adults with low DHEA sulfate levels. However, it can cause side effects like acne and hair loss when taken in high doses.
• DHEA levels tend to be lower in people with adrenal insufficiency, depression, anorexia, end-stage kidney disease, HIV disease, and inflammatory diseases like rheumatoid arthritis.

In summary, DHEA is a prohormone our bodies naturally produce, peaking in our 20s/30s and declining with age. Supplementing with low-dose DHEA may help mitigate some age-related declines, but more research is still needed on its long-term safety and anti-aging benefits.

Let Balance Hormone Center know if you need any clarification or have additional questions!