DHEA, short for dehydroepiandrosterone, is an important hormone that is produced naturally by the adrenal glands. DHEA levels peak in our 20s and 30s, after which they steadily decline with age.
What does DHEA do?
DHEA is considered a “parent hormone” because it can convert into other hormones in the body like estrogen and testosterone. It plays many important roles, including:
Some research suggests that DHEA supplements may help alleviate symptoms for people with conditions like adrenal insufficiency, depression, menopause, and autoimmune diseases. However, more studies are still needed.
What are normal DHEA levels?
Normal DHEA levels vary greatly by age:
Should I take DHEA supplements?
Research on DHEA supplementation is still ongoing, but it may provide benefits for some people, especially women over 40 and those with low DHEA levels. As we age, our bodies produce less DHEA, which can contribute to unpleasant symptoms.
Some benefits of DHEA supplements may include:
The key is getting your DHEA levels tested first to confirm a deficiency. Optimal Health Hormone Clinic offers DHEA testing and customized treatment plans to help patients optimize their DHEA levels safely under medical supervision.
Overall, DHEA is an important hormone that declines as we get older. Testing and treatment supervised by a knowledgeable physician from clinics like Optimal Health Hormone Clinic may help alleviate age-related symptoms and restore wellbeing. Consider discussing DHEA testing and supplementation with your doctor to see if it could benefit you!