As we age, our bodies begin to go through some notable changes. Perhaps the most impactful of them is a decline in the prevalence and production of many important hormones with DHEA being chief among them. After the age of 30, levels of DHEA begin to decline rapidly which is often accompanied by symptoms of aging including fatigue, weight gain, loss of libido, and increased inflammation. You can counterbalance the hormonal decline of aging and combat many of the associated symptoms by taking a supplement such as HoltraCeuticals’ DHEA.
What is DHEA?
Dehydroepiandrosterone, more commonly called DHEA, is an important pro-hormone that is associated with longevity. DHEA is one of the most abundant hormones in the body. It is secreted by the testes in men and produced by the adrenals in both men and women. DHEA is involved in over 150 metabolic functions. Often called “the parent hormone,” DHEA can be broken down into other essential hormones such as estrogen and testosterone. Therefore, a decline in DHEA can result in multiple hormonal deficiencies and trigger a wide range of symptoms including reduced energy level, poor metabolic activity, irregular heart function, neurological dysfunction, and reduced bone density.
Why Should I Supplement with DHEA?
Because of its influence over the prevalence of many important hormones, supplementing with DHEA can positively impact multiple areas of wellness. The most notable benefits of DHEA supplementation are typically seen in older individuals and those suffering from chronic illness. However, many people may experience positive outcomes from taking a DHEA supplement. Some of the greatest benefits of DHEA supplementation are described below.
Reduces Inflammation
As DHEA levels decline, inflammation increases and immune function becomes increasingly dysregulated. This may be a leading factor in why reduced DHEA levels are associated with a greater risk of age-related illness. Taking a DHEA supplement such as that produced by HoltraCeuticals can help the body better regulate autoimmune activity and reduce inflammation. These outcomes help prevent illness and also supports overall wellness.
Supports Bone Density
Loss of bone density and muscle mass is a common symptom of aging. This decline may be related to reduced levels of DHEA. Using a DHEA supplement may help protect against bone loss and reduce the risk of osteoporosis and breakage.
As levels of DHEA increase, so too does the prevalence of estrogen. Estrogen is recognized in multiple studies for its ability to improve bone mineral density in older or post-menopausal women. Bone-related benefits of DHEA supplementation are most notable in elderly individuals and may only become apparent after multiple years of supplementation.
Protects Mental Wellness
Those with depression and other mood disorders frequently exhibit low serum levels of DHEA. Some studies suggest that increasing DHEA values may reduce the occurrence of major depression and limit emotional instability. One study found that supplementing with 25 to 200 milligrams of DHEA helped lower symptoms of depression and other mood disorders.
The mood-related symptoms treated through DHEA supplementation include: loss of pleasure (anhedonia), lack of energy, emotional apathy, difficulty with emotional investment, sadness, irritability, poor stress response, and anxiety.
Combats Neurodegeneration
The National Institute of Health states that supplementing with DHEA may decrease or reverse cognitive decline caused by aging. This is particularly evident among patients suffering from chronic mental health conditions such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, and dementia. The only concern for this type of treatment is that to be effective, DHEA must be taken at an exceptionally high dose. Supplementing with DHEA at increased volume may result in unwanted side effects. Consult a doctor before taking DHEA at a high dose or for neuroprotection.
May Support Weight Loss
As the body ages, it becomes less efficient at burning fat and expending energy. DHEA influences multiple important factors of these metabolic processes.
DHEA is involved in the transport of glucose to be used as energy by cells. It also helps reduce insulin, which allows for greater stimulation of fat burning. Some studies suggest that DHEA supports the building of lean muscle, which improves weight loss because muscle burns calories quicker than other tissues. However, further research is needed to confirm the fat burning and weight loss benefits of DHEA.
Supports Heart Health
Increasing intake of DHEA may be able to reduce the risk of cardiovascular issues including clogged arteries, blood clots, and high cholesterol. It is not fully understood how DHEA supports these elements. However, researchers posit that the positive influence of DHEA on inflammation, metabolic activity, glucose, and insulin utilization, and sex hormone production cumulatively supports cardiovascular health.
Supplementing Safely with DHEA
If you decide to supplement with DHEA it is best you begin doing so at a low dose and increase it over a period of several months. DHEA is a powerful substance that promotes the production of hormones that are not easily excreted through urine. Therefore, excess levels of DHEA can quickly result in toxicity. That said, studies show that supplementing with DHEA at an appropriate dosage is unlikely to trigger severe side effects. Minor side effects associated with DHEA supplementation include greasy skin, acne, and increased hair growth in the pubic area and armpits.
People under the age of 30 should not use DHEA supplements unless prescribed by a doctor. Those being treated for certain forms of cancer should not take DHEA. Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should not take DHEA. Those who currently taking medications or have an existing medical condition should speak with a doctor before supplementing with DHEA.
Keep Your Body Healthy with DHEA
Those suffering from the telltale signs of aging may be experiencing the effects of DHEA decline. After the age of 30, the amount of DHEA in the body can drop dramatically. You may be able to counteract many of the common complaints of aging and better support your health by restoring DHEA values with a high-quality supplement such as HoltraCeuticals DHEA. This powerful product can enliven many systems throughout the body and help protect against chronic conditions, mental health issues, heart disease, and more!
