DHEA

DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone), a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, holds a crucial role in the synthesis of estrogen and testosterone, influencing various aspects of health. Often utilized as a supplement, DHEA is associated with benefits such as promoting bone health, cardiovascular well-being, alleviating depression, supporting healthy aging, and addressing sexual dysfunction. Derived from pregnenolone, which, in turn, originates from cholesterol, DHEA is the second most common steroid in humans, with its sulfate ester, DHEA-S, frequently measured in blood tests due to its stability. DHEA levels decline with age, with individuals in their 70s having less than 20% of peak DHEA-S levels seen in young adults. Supplementation with DHEA in those with insufficient natural production, often observed in older individuals, can elevate androgen and estrogen levels, offering potential benefits for colon cancer risk reduction, improved body composition, bone health, cardiovascular health, insulin sensitivity, and mood enhancement. While generally well-tolerated, rare side effects such as acne and facial hair growth have been reported in postmenopausal women. In the context of physical exercise, DHEA has been shown to increase free testosterone levels in middle-aged men, with varying effects in younger men. Beyond its role in hormone synthesis, DHEA also exhibits direct effects on the body by weakly stimulating androgen and estrogen receptors.