DHEA

Why You Need It

• Hormone Balance: It is the building block for your sex hormones. Adequate levels support reproductive health.
• Mood & Brain Function: Studies suggest it may improve memory, mood, and overall sense of well-being in older adults.
• Bone Density: It helps maintain bone mass, potentially reducing the risk of osteoporosis.
• Skin Health: It can improve skin thickness and hydration, reducing the appearance of wrinkles.

Deep Dive

DHEA works by converting into other hormones as needed by the body. Think of it as 'raw material' in your hormonal factory. Unlike many supplements, DHEA is a hormone itself, which makes it powerful but also requires caution. It is primarily used to counteract the natural decline that happens after age 30. For women specifically, it has shown promise in helping with low libido and adrenal fatigue. For men, it supports testosterone levels, aiding in muscle mass and energy. However, it is not a magic pill; it supports the body's foundation so other systems can work better.

Natural Food Sources

Here is the tricky part: DHEA is primarily produced by your body, not found in large quantities in food. While some foods (like wild yams) contain diosgenin (a precursor), human bodies cannot efficiently convert plant-based precursors into active DHEA. Therefore, a 'DHEA diet' focuses on supporting your adrenal glands rather than eating the hormone itself.

Supplementation

Dosage: Typical doses range from 25mg to 50mg daily. Higher doses are rarely recommended due to side effects.

Who Should Take It: It is best suited for adults over 30 or 40 experiencing signs of hormonal decline (low energy, brain fog, low libido). It is not recommended for children or young adults with healthy hormone levels. Always get blood work done to confirm your levels are actually low before supplementing.