Target Population for DHEA Supplementation
By Julie Riggs, MED, RD, LD
DHEA, or dehydroepiandrosterone, is a naturally occurring steroid produced in the brain, skin, and adrenal glands, whose levels decline up to 90% with age, peaking in the mid-20’s. It is a natural steroid hormone that serves as an indirect building block for other hormones, specifically testosterone, estrogen, progesterone and cortisol. That being said, the target population that would benefit the most from
DHEA supplementation would be individuals over 40 up to 70 years of age. This is when we typically see a decline in natural growth hormone production, testosterone and estrogen production, calcium production/bone density, libido, and energy. We also see an increase in the use of hormone replacement therapy, alternative medicine, herbal remedies, anti-aging medicines, dietary supplements, and sometimes prohormones.
DHEA is a relatively newly researched steroid that has been shown to be useful in the treatment of erectile dysfunction, premenstrual syndrome, menopause, depression, obesity, herpes, cardiovascular disease, osteoporosis, lupus, arthritis, MS, and chronic fatigue syndrome, in the aging. It also serves many functions naturally (unsupplemented) within our bodies as we develop and grow, such as, sexual maturation, fat metabolism, erectile function, immune activation, and cellular production. The problem lies in the mystery of why the production of DHEA declines with age. This is the answer researchers are working tirelessly to get. Is there a biological reason for our bodies to need less of this natural androgen? Is it more detrimental to supplement something that the body is not producing as much of on purpose? Are the added amounts from
DHEA supplementation damaging in some ways, if too much is taken? Maybe it exacerbates other problems if they are not detected yet or are hidden, just as taking an anabolic steroid or injectable HGH would? These are the types of questions that are being tested and researched currently.
Although, researchers do confidently believe that supplementation of 50-75 mg a day, for three to six months, has positive and noticeable effects on older individuals who naturally have lower levels of the steroid being produced. These individuals reported an improved sense of well being (helping with depression), better sleep, more energy, and a better ability to handle stress. They also reported improved cognitive function, an elevated overall mood, and “pep-up” to the libido, since DHEA does stimulate sex hormone levels, providing better hormonal balance. For men, studies have shown that increasing their DHEA levels reduced impotence and other forms of sexual dysfunction. Who couldn’t use that as the years tick away!
In conclusion, DHEA is the most abundant steroidal hormone produced in the body. It is very important, since it floats through our bloodstream and is converted, as needed, into any one of the other hormones. There must be ample supply of DHEA available for the body to do this conversion, and as we age there is less and less of it to go around. Supplementation is safe, effective and useful for the aging population, or those individuals whose bodies are not making adequate amounts on their own. Much more research needs to be done concerning safety and long-term use of
DHEA supplementation. It’s hormonal restoration; anti-aging, rejuvenation, and overall wellness benefits are worth trying short-term supplementation. Make sure you search out a reputable manufacturer and retailer, and consult your doctor before beginning any supplementation.
Julie Riggs Med. RD LD
Registered and Licensed Dieticianwww.i-supplements.com
Julie Riggs has been teaching fitness and nutrition skills to every population, from NFL players to the elderly, pre and post-natal moms to professional bodybuilders for her entire career. As a writer and consultant for www.i-supplements.com and as a registered dietician, personal trainer, and mom of three Julie brings real life perspective to the every day person's fitness and nutritional concerns.
