DHEA is a hormone produced by the body that is important for hormonal balance. As people age, their production of DHEA decreases, which can cause symptoms such as fatigue, depression, and joint pain. DHEA supplements may help relieve these symptoms, but more research is needed to determine their efficacy. Natural methods, such as exercise and social connections, can also boost DHEA production.
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a hormone produced naturally by the body. Produced primarily by the adrenal gland, DHEA is also produced in the brain and in men, the testicles. Low DHEA can cause a wide variety of symptoms including fatigue, depression, joint pain, and a host of others that can interfere with a productive life.
Once DHEA is produced by the adrenal glands or other organs, the human body works to convert DHEA into androstenedione. Androstenedione is then transformed into male and female hormones, such as estrogen and testosterone. Producing the proper levels of DHEA is important for hormonal balance in the human body.
With age, the body’s production of DHEA naturally decreases. Typically, males produce more DHEA than females. This applies to all age groups. For both men and women, the body produces the highest level of DHEA in 20-somethings.
Some believe that adrenal fatigue due to chronic stress, poor diet, and an erratic emotional state can affect DHEA production. If the adrenal glands work harder to produce stress hormones, cortisol and adrenaline, the production of DHEA decreases. This can throw the body off balance, causing a variety of symptoms related to low DHEA.
Symptoms related to low DHEA can vary and may also depend on your lifestyle habits and overall health. For some, extreme fatigue, depression and loss of sex drive may be the main symptoms. Others may experience decreased muscle mass, trouble concentrating, and difficulty getting a good night’s rest when faced with low DHEA.
Traditional medicine recognizes the importance of DHEA, but more research is needed to consider DHEA as a therapy for a wide variety of diseases and conditions. Research shows that some levels of DHEA may be helpful in treating schizophrenia, lupus and osteoporosis. The use and efficacy of DHEA in weight loss, depression, chronic fatigue syndrome, and infertility require further research and additional study.
Natural and holistic medicine practitioners may recommend DHEA supplements as a way to boost adrenal function and relieve symptoms associated with low DHEA. Those on other medications should speak to a doctor before using DHEA supplements. Some people experience negative side effects because DHEA is broken down into different hormones within the body, such as estrogen. This can include breast tenderness and body hair growth.
In addition to supplements, the body can be trained to create more DHEA naturally. Exercise, social connections, and spiritual pursuits can affect the body’s production of DHEA. This is because these activities reduce stress and therefore reduce the impact of stress on the adrenal glands.
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