DHEA; The Master Hormone |
What is DHEA? DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, which sit on top of the kidneys. Researchers are certain that DHEA is used as a building block to make the hormones testosterone and estrogen, but they are not sure about other functions of DHEA. Levels of DHEA are at their highest in people between the ages of 20 to 30 years. After this, DHEA levels slowly decline, reaching their lowest levels in the elderly. This change in DHEA levels has caused many to speculate that DHEA decline contributes to the biological ageing process, and DHEA's usefulness as an anti-aging hormone. Specifically, scientists are examining DHEA’s power to protect against heart disease in older men, its ability to boost the immune system, and whether it can help in managing diabetes and easing lupus symptoms. The strongest evidence so far may be for DHEA’s power to enhance the quality of life of older people, increasing their energy level and ability to handle stress. In a 1999 German study published in The New England Journal of Medicine, investigators found that DHEA supplements lessened depression and anxiety in women with a deficiency in the secretion of adrenal gland hormones, a condition known as adrenal insufficiency. The supplements also significantly improved their sexual health and overall well-being. Cautions: |