DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone) is a natural steroid produced by our adrenal glands. It is derived from cholesterol which has been metabolized by the liver.

Our bodies produce more DHEA than any other hormone, peaking in our early 20s and dropping to a small fraction of that by the time we reach our 70s and 80s. It is this drastic decrease in our bodyÕs most prevalent hormone that first signaled its relation to vital health and well-being, and caused researchers to explore the possible benefits of DHEA supplementation.

Some of the positive effects of DHEA include:

• Mental well-being
• Increased libido
• Decreased risk of heart disease
• Improved blood vessel function
• Increased bone density
• Reduced risk of fracture
• Improved immune function
• Increased lean muscle mass
• Improved insulin sensitivity
• Less fatigue
• Increased metabolism
• Decreased plasma cortisol
• Aids cholesterol reduction

DHEA has also been cited for helping avoid certain cancers, preventing tumor formation and reducing Lupus symptoms.

It is worth noting that unlike most other hormone supplementation, DHEA is widely available in an oral, over-the-counter form. However, these products are often of a non-pharmaceutical grade. More importantly, use of these products is usually undertaken without appropriate medical consultation and monitoring.

In order to realize the benefits of any hormone supplementation, and specifically to avoid the dangerous risks of over-dosing on DHEA, it is critical that a patientÕs baseline levels be determined and that therapy be carefully tuned and supervised to meet their individual needs.