Dietary Supplements Facts and Information - DHEA

DHEA

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a steroid hormone and chemically related to testosterone and estrogen. It is manufactured by the adrenal glands from cholesterol. DHEA production increases up until the mid-20s. A steady decline in DHEA production occurs as a person ages until only about 20% is produced by age 75 as was produced during the peak period in the 20s. There are varying studies with varying results. Some studies show an increase in muscle mass and attribute this supplement to an increased longevity. However, other studies show the opposite results and show an increase in body fat and estrogen levels.

Possible Health Hazards: Increased testosterone level (women), increased estrogen level (men), altered hormone levels, liver dysfunction, increased prostate/breast cancer risk and other steroid-like effects (facial hair, acne, personality changes).

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