Within the health industry’s ongoing debate about hormone replacement therapy, the effectiveness of DHEA continues to be a controversial topic. Some health experts claim that DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) can improve health, longevity, and even combat the signs of aging. Others say that with the appropriate amounts of hormone replacement through diet and supplements, individuals do have a chance to reverse aging and enhance their health.

DHEA, Defined

A hormone naturally produced by your body, DHEA is at its highest levels when you’re in your early 20s. DHEA is necessary for regulating adrenal hormones in the body and helps to synthesize both sex and stress hormones. When the body does not have enough DHEA, it can’t produce adrenal hormones it needs to stay in balance. Some scientists suggest that DHEA can help manage a variety of health conditions by boosting the immune system. According to their research, DHEA may:

• Decrease the risk of heart disease.


• Limit the risk of osteoporosis.


• Reverse the signs of aging by reducing stress hormones within the body.


• Regulate blood sugar.


• Protect the body against some forms of cancer.

The hormone has been administered to many patients who have chronic fatigue syndrome, heart disease, or Alzheimer’s disease. Because of its powerful anti-stress agents, stress disorders are the most common reason to take additional DHEA. Because it may help correct erectile dysfunction, DHEA can be found in topical form as well as in capsules. It’s also found in thermogenic fat-loss formulas, such as Beverly International 7-Keto MuscLEAN.

Links to the Immune System

Many degenerative diseases are linked to poor immunity—the ability of the body to resist disease, aging, and oxidation of cells. Some research studies confirm that DHEA has the power to boost the immune system for longevity. When there is enough DHEA in the body, the body is less likely to incur signs of aging, muscle and bone deterioration, and even infections. Stress causes high levels of cortisol to be released in the body and can increase the risk of a variety of conditions. DHEA supplementation attempts to reduce these effects, especially in situations where the body may be under prolonged stress.

Common Supplementation Concerns

Both men and women may require additional supplements and vitamins when taking DHEA. Having a blood test will determine the appropriate dosage needed, and people taking the hormone often need to include other extracts and minerals in their diet. Men need to be most concerned with vitamin E, selenium, lycopene extract, and nettle extract. These can reduce the risk of prostate problems that have been linked to DHEA.

Women commonly experience a rise in estrogen in the body, and will need to take supplements such as melatonin, vitamin E, vitamin D-3, and soy extract. These can help manage estrogen levels.

Overall Effectiveness

Despite the conflicting studies and research about the benefits of DHEA, many researchers confirm optimal results when the supplement is taken in conjunction with other necessary vitamins and minerals, and even when accompanied by simple dietary changes. DHEA is commonly used for its anti-aging properties, lowering stress hormones in the body, and even reversing osteoporosis. The effects of DHEA vary by person, and results need to be monitored. Consulting with a physician for a complete blood test and analysis is recommended, since this helps determine the appropriate dosage level.

—Sabah Karimi