DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone)

 

What is DHEA?

Dehydroepiandrosterone, also known as DHEA, is a hormone produced by your body’s adrenal glands. We are still learning about what DHEA does, but we do know that it is a precursor to male and female sex hormones, mainly testosterone and estrogen. DHEA production peaks in your mid-20s and gradually declines with age. DHEA levels may drop to less than 20 percent of their peak value over the next 40 to 60 years of your life. Low levels are linked to several conditions, such as depression and sexual dysfunction.

What are the benefits of DHEA?

DHEA benefits include:

  • Strengthening the immune system
  • Slowing natural aging
  • Increased energy
  • Improving mood and memory
  • Building up bone and muscle strength

How can you take DHEA?

You can take DHEA in the various forms, including oral tablets or topical creams.

Does DHEA help with Erectile Function?

Some evidence shows that dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) increases libido and helps treating erectile dysfunction in men. Some studies have shown that taking high doses improves erectile dysfunction by stimulating blood vessels to open wider for improved blood flow. A randomized control study looking at the role of DHEA in erectile function found that DHEA treatment was associated with higher mean scores for all five domains of the International Index of Erectile Function (IIEF), a questionnaire, used to rate the success of erectile dysfunction therapies. Although studies suggest that DHEA helps improve erectile function, the studies aren’t great so the consensus is still out. Further studies need to be performed to truly link DHEA and improved erectile function.

Can DHEA increase your Testosterone levels?

Currently, there is very little scientific evidence to support DHEA supplementation for increasing testosterone levels. Several smaller scientific studies have shown that DHEA may help stimulate testosterone production and offer a range of benefits.

One published study looked at eight middle-aged men who were given a DHEA supplement the night before completing a high-intensity interval training exercise program. Results revealed that use of DHEA supplements appeared to increase testosterone levels and prevent those levels from declining during exercise.

What are the side effects of DHEA?

The long-term safety of DHEA hasn’t been well established, however, some side effects linked to DHEA include:

  • Acne
  • Mania
  • Oily skin
  • Heart palpitations
  • Reduced HDL cholesterol
  • Male-pattern hair growth in women

Takeaways 

DHEA declines as you age. Although DHEA has many functions in your body, many of these functions still aren’t very well understood.