DHEA

What is DHEA?

DHEA or dehydroepiandrosterone stands for Dehydroepiandrosterone. It is an androgen - one of the hormones that influences our physical and mental development and maturation . Essentially, DHEA has many functions that have not yet been conclusively proven in humans. However, it is known that :

• One of its key roles seems to be in the production of other hormones. For example, it has been shown that the body can convert DHEA into the sex hormones estrogen and testosterone. It can also produce other androgens like dihydrotestosterone. So even though DHEA is considered a mild androgen itself, it acts as a precursor for more potent androgens


• It is produced in the adrenal glands, gonads (ovaries and testicles) and possibly the brain. Blood levels of DHEA peak at around 25 years of age after which they start declining by 2-3% per year


• Studies have suggested it is important for wellbeing. For instance, some research shows that in older adults lower DHEA levels correlate with depressed mood states and poorer sleep quality


• However, studies looking at DHEA supplementation have yielded inconsistent results. While some studies show it can help improve libido and mood, others show no effect or negative effects at higher doses

So while more research is required to show how useful DHEA supplementation is, it does seem to play an important role in our body. If you do decide to start taking DHEA supplements, it's wise to speak to a hormone specialist or endocrinologist to ensure you take the correct dose.

For more advice, consider contacting the hormone optimization experts at Endocrine Wellness Center. Their dedicated physicians can assess your DHEA levels with comprehensive blood work and then create a personalized treatment plan tailored just for you.

Now that we've covered the basics of DHEA, let's go into some more detail:

How Does the Body Produce DHEA?

As mentioned, DHEA is secreted by the adrenal glands and gonads. The production process works like this:

• Cholesterol is converted into pregnenolone


• Pregnenolone is then converted into DHEA through two enzymatic steps


• Most DHEA in the body exists in its sulfated form known as DHEA-S which acts as a storage form

What Are Normal DHEA Levels?

There is no established standard reference range because levels depend heavily on age and sex. However, some general guidelines are:

• For adult men, normal DHEA levels are around 300-800 ng/dL


• For adult women, levels are roughly 150-500 ng/dL


• Levels peak around age 25 and decline with age

So if your levels are on the lower end compared to others your age, you may wish to consult a physician. Proper testing is important though - make sure you get a DHEAS test rather than just DHEA.

What Are Signs of Low DHEA?

People with deficient DHEA levels may exhibit symptoms like:

• Low libido


• Less energy


• Depression


• Poor sleep

However, these symptoms are common in many conditions - so don't assume DHEA is definitely the culprit. Proper testing is required for confirmation. If it is DHEA deficiency though, supplementation under medical supervision may alleviate symptoms.

Hopefully that answers the question "What is DHEA?". To summarize, it is an androgen precursor that gets converted into other hormones and plays various roles related to mood, libido and wellbeing. While the full effects require more research, maintaining optimal levels is likely important - especially as we age. Please let me know if you have any other questions!