DHEA, short for dehydroepiandrosterone, is an important hormone that is produced naturally in the body by the adrenal glands. DHEA levels peak in our 20s and 30s, after which they decline steadily with age.
What does DHEA do?
DHEA is considered a "precursor" hormone, meaning it acts as a building block for other key hormones in the body like testosterone and estrogen. Studies show DHEA has important impacts on:
- Metabolism - Helps regulate insulin and blood sugar
- Immune function - Boosts immune cell activity
- Cognition - Supports memory and clarity
- Energy levels - Promotes vigor, vitality and stamina
Some research also indicates DHEA may help with
depression,
bone density,
muscle mass,
libido and
anti-aging. It's been called the “Mother Hormone” or “Fountain of Youth Hormone” for good reason!
Why do DHEA levels decline?
Stress is considered a major factor in declining DHEA over time. Our adrenals get depleted from constantly pumping out cortisol and other stress hormones day-after-day for years, leaving limited capacity to produce optimal DHEA.
DHEA deficiency
Low DHEA is quite common - some studies estimate up to 80% of adults over age 40 may be deficient. Symptoms include:
- Fatigue, low energy
- Weight gain, hard to lose weight
- Poor sleep
- Low libido
- Anxiety, mood changes
- Reduced muscle tone
- Brain fog, memory lapses
Should you take a DHEA supplement?
If struggling with deficiency symptoms, a properly balanced DHEA supplement can offer tremendous benefits in restoring youthful hormone balance and vitality.
Our clinicians at
Balance Hormone Institute specialize in precision DHEA and hormone therapy. We provide cutting-edge testing to pinpoint imbalances, craft customized treatment plans with bioidentical hormones, and monitor progress with follow-up testing to ensure optimal results.
I hope this overview gives helpful insight into the vital roles DHEA plays in our health and wellbeing. Let me know if you have any other questions!