Dhea Supplements: Possible Benefits Of Maintaining Youth And The Possible

The most abundant steroid in the human body is DHEA. DHEA is
produced by the adrenal glands. DHEA is involved in creating
testosterone, estrogen, progesterone, and corticosterone. As we
age the production of DHEA declines. By age 75 the body makes
only 10 to 20 percent what it produced at age twenty.

Decreasing DHEA levels are closely associated with a number of
age-related diseases and disabilities. Researchers and
scientists speculate if aging men and women can restore their
DHEA to levels produced in their youth, youthful health and
vigor will also be restored.

Studies have shown:

•Adult men with high plasma DHEA-S levels are less likely to
die of cardiovascular disease
•DHEA increases the body's ability to transform food into
energy and burn off excess fat
•Anti-inflammatory properties of DHEA combined with
conventional treatment could potentially improve the quality of
life across a wide range of illnesses such as heart disease,
Alzheimer's disease and certain types of cancer
•DHEA is secreted throughout the body during sex. High levels
of DHEA have beeb associated with several health benefits which
include longevity, building muscle mass, depression as well as
enhanced libido.
•Daily DHEA supplementation remedies some of the side effects
of menopause
•DHEA has been found to reduce risk factors associated with
age-related heart disease and improves blood vessels by
stimulating the linings of arteries to produce nitric oxide, a
substance that relaxes arterial tension.
•DHEA supplementation for men and women, in youth or in older
age, can be considered as a safe, multi-modal anti-aging
supplement, which promotes quality of life and increases the
odds of living longer lives.

Side effects and warnings of DHEA supplements

There have been few side effects reported when DHEA supplements
are taken by mouth in recommended doses. In clinical trials,
acne is a common reported side effect. Patients with HIV
commonly complain of fatigue, nasal congestion, headache and
insomnia. Women commonly complain of abnormal menses, emotional
changes, headache and insomnia. Other side effects may include:

•Agitation
•Delusions
•Mania
•Nervousness
•Irritability
•Psychosis

In addition, high DHEA levels have been associated with
Cushing's syndrome, but may be caused by excessive
supplementation. Individuals with a history of abnormal heart
rhythms, blood clots or hypercoagulability, and individuals with
a history of liver disease should avoid DHEA supplements.

Other possible side effects due to the fact that DHEA is a
hormone related to other male and female hormones may include:

•Masculinization in women such as acne, greasy skin, facial
hair, hair loss, increased sweating, weight gain around the
waist or a deeper voice
•Men may develop more prominent breasts or breast tenderness
•Men may experience increased blood pressure, testicular
wasting or increased aggressiveness
DHEA supplementation may also alter the production or balance
of various other hormones in the body. These hormonal-related
side effects may include:

•Increased blood sugar levels
•Insulin resistance
•Altered cholesterol levels
•Altered thyroid hormone levels
•Altered adrenal function

Use caution if you are an individual with diabetes or
hyperglycemia, high cholesterol, thyroid disorder or other
endocrine (hormonal abnormalities. Consult with your physician
before taking DHEA supplements. The serum glucose, cholesterol
and thyroid levels may need to be monitored by your physician
and medication adjustments may be necessary.

DHEA supplements are not recommended during pregnancy or
breastfeeding. DHEA is a hormone and may be unsafe to the fetus
or nursing infant.

Source: American Academy of Anti-Aging Medicine; Mayo Clinic

Disclaimer: *This article is not meant to diagnose, treat or
cure any kind of a health problem. These statements have not
been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. Always
consult with your health care provider about any kind of a
health problem and especially before beginning any kind of an
exercise routine.

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About The Author: Connie Limon, Trilogy Field Representative.
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