Focus on DHEA
.What
is it?
Dehyroepiandrosterone (DHEA)* is often referred to as the ‘Mother of
all hormones’. It has also been tagged the ‘Fountain of Youth’. DHEA
is the most abundant steroid in the bloodstream, and is found in
even higher levels in brain tissue. With age, the levels of DHEA
have been shown to sharply decline. In our 20’s our bodies make an
ample supply, however, beginning around the age of 30 our production
of this hormone decreases about 2% a year. By the age of 50 that
equates to a 40% loss!
DHEA is produced by the adrenal glands and secreted into the
bloodstream. It then becomes a form known as DHEA-sulfate (DHEAS),
and is converted into other hormones as needed.
What is its purpose?
First and foremost this hormone powerhouse is involved in just about
every aspect of your body’s functioning. It has been shown to help
support weight maintenance, sexual function, and mood regulation.
Published studies have also indicated a possible anti-aging effect
of DHEA. It won’t keep you young forever, but it may slow the hands
of Father Time.
Recently, some studies in the medical literature are indicating that
DHEA may specifically protect us against atherosclerosis.
Atherosclerosis is a condition in which fatty material is deposited
along the walls of arteries (more commonly known as hardening of the
arteries). Also, it has been shown that DHEA may play a vital role
in brain health, as it may protect brain neurons from age-related
degenerative diseases, such as Alzheimer’s disease. This maybe due
to the brain tissue’s high levels of DHEA.
Why take it as a
supplement?
Because we know that with age our body’s production of DHEA
decreases dramatically, and we know DHEA plays a crucial role in so
many bodily functions, it is often recommended to begin
supplementing with DHEA after the age of 40.
For heart health, weight management, sexual function, and perhaps
for that ‘I feel good’ feeling supplementing with DHEA may be just
what your body is craving.
What is the Recommended Dosage?
Although DHEA can be purchased over-the-counter*, it is advisable to
use this product with the supervision of your health care provider.
Typically women start at 25mg per day and men at 50mg per day. Your
health care provider will monitor your DHEA levels to insure they
get and stay in the proper range.
* You must be at least 18 years old to purchase this product. Due to
state laws it cannot be sold in South Dakota or Missouri. |
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