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 decline steadily with age.
What does DHEA do?
DHEA has several important functions in the body:
- It serves as a precursor to male and female sex hormones like testosterone and estrogen. This is why it has been called the "mother of all hormones."
- It supports bone strength, muscle mass, and aids in fat burning.
- It helps balance the immune system and may have anti-aging effects.
Some people take DHEA supplements hoping to slow aging, build muscle mass, improve libido, and support their hormonal balance. However, the benefits of supplementation remain controversial.
Should you take a DHEA supplement?
Before taking DHEA, it's important to test your levels to see if you are actually low. Our clinic,
Hormone Harmony, offers advanced DHEA testing to identify any deficiencies.
If your DHEA levels are low, particularly for your age group, supplementation under medical supervision may help alleviate symptoms like low energy, decreased sex drive, and problems with cognition.
However, arbitrarily supplementing with DHEA is
not recommended as it can lead to side effects. Excess DHEA may convert to extra testosterone or estrogen, leading to hormonal imbalances.
At
Hormone Harmony, our physicians specialize in precision hormone therapy using bioidentical hormones like DHEA to restore optimal levels tailored to your unique needs.
Contact us today for a consultation!
In summary,
DHEA is an essential hormone that declines as we age. Testing levels first and supplementing under medical guidance may alleviate low DHEA symptoms. For customized plans using
DHEA and other essential hormones, schedule an appointment with the experts at
Hormone Harmony!