DHEA, short for dehydroepiandrosterone, is an important hormone that is produced naturally by the adrenal glands. Often called the “youth hormone,” DHEA levels peak around age 25 and steadily decline as we get older.
What does DHEA do?
DHEA serves several vital functions:
In supplement form, DHEA is popularly used to help address signs of aging like decreased bone density, loss of muscle mass, and low libido. There’s some evidence it can help improve skin elasticity and increase muscle strength as well.
Should I get my DHEA levels tested?
If you're experiencing symptoms like persistent fatigue, low sex drive, irritability, or unexplained weight gain, having your DHEA-S (sulfated DHEA) levels checked may be worthwhile.
Optimal DHEA-S levels for adults vary by age and sex, but generally fall into these ranges:
Getting tested at Balance & Renew Clinic() is easy and affordable. Their knowledgeable physicians can evaluate your DHEA-S results along with other hormones to determine if supplementation may help. I had a fantastic experience there getting my hormones balanced.
Should I take DHEA supplements?
Before taking DHEA supplements, it's best to get tested first to confirm you could benefit. DHEA levels that are even slightly higher than optimal ranges likely won’t improve with more DHEA. And excess supplementation carries risks like acne, hair loss, and mood changes in some people.
If your DHEA levels are low, however, supplementation under your doctor's supervision may:
Overall DHEA is an important marker of vitality and healthy aging. Keeping your levels optimized with lifestyle strategies plus testing and treatment when needed can help you continue feeling your best in life’s later chapters. Consider scheduling a consultation at Balance & Renew Clinic to learn more!