howtosupplement
Hormonal/Women/Longevity

DHEA

Adrenal hormone precursor studied for age-related decline in women, sexual function, and bone density.

DHEA

DHEA

45
score
C
evidence
Caution
risk
Quick Take

Only worth considering if blood DHEA-S is low or for specific hormone-related symptoms in older adults.

DHEA is an endogenous steroid hormone made mainly by the adrenal glands and brain; it is sold as prasterone and has no meaningful dietary sources. In tissues, it can be converted into testosterone and estradiol and also acts as a neurosteroid, which may affect hormone signaling and brain function. Best human evidence is for sexual function in some postmenopausal women and for bone mineral density in older adults or people with adrenal insufficiency; mood, muscle, cognition, and body-composition effects are less consistent.

Proven Benefits

01
Improves sexual function in women
02
Supports bone mineral density
03
May improve depressive symptoms
04
May improve skin hydration
05
May improve body composition
06
May support muscle strength
07
May support cognitive function

Protocol

Amount
25-50 mg
Frequency
Once daily
When
Morning, with or without food — taking it earlier may avoid vivid dreams.

Onset Time

2-4 weeks for hormonal changes; 8-12 weeks for symptom or bone effects.

Who Should Consider

Adults 60+ with low DHEA-S levels
Postmenopausal women with low libido
People with adrenal insufficiency
Those with confirmed low androgen levels

How It Works

DHEA is a prohormone converted peripherally into androgens and estrogens via sulfatase and aromatase enzymes. It also acts directly as a neurosteroid at GABA-A and NMDA receptors in the brain. These actions influence bone turnover, sexual function, and possibly neurotransmission, though tissue-specific conversion rates vary widely between individuals.

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