What is DHEA?

DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is the most abundant hormone occuring in the body. It is manufactured in the adrenal gland (one adrenal gland above each kidney). As the body ages, there is a reduction in the amount of DHEA produced. This reduction has lead to the theory that DHEA could be used to reduce the effects of growing older and be an effective anti-aging supplement

Uses of DHEA

Medical studies have shown that DHEA may be directly related to the probability of death. A 12-year study, of the DHEA level in men over the age of 50 showed that a higher level of DHEA increased life expectancy. Furthermore, a higher level of DHEA contributed to better overall health, and reduced rates of heart disease and cancer.

Also, a study in 1995 of 22 men who took 100 mg of DHEA per day for a period of 30 days. The study showed that the 100 mg of DHEA lead to a decrease in glucose levels and a decrease in serum insulin that pointed to the chance that DHEA might be useful in the treatment of diabetes.

A recent study for DHEA was in the treatment of SLE (systemic lupus erythematosus). Research has indicated that DHEA can improve and or stabilize the signs and symptoms of SLE. As DHEA has been shown to be an effective treatment in for SLE, the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) may be close to approving a prescription form of DHEA for the treatment of SLE.

There have been many small clinical trails into the use of DHEA. It was found that in some cases, supplementation lowered overall body fat mass, and could be used to treat depression. Furthermore, other potential benefits suggested by researchers include, an improved immune system, a greater ability to cope with stressful events, an elevated mood, a feeling of well-being, a lift in energy as well as numerous others.

Supplementation

Many health professionals believe that a daily intake of 30mg per day for a man and 15mg per day for a woman are reasonable, but many people use much higher doses with little side effects. DHEA supplements have been suggested for patients who suffer from depression and SLE. DHEA supplements should be taken in the morning before breakfast. You can buy DHEA in many health food stores, pharmacies and many grocery stores.