DHEA, or dehydroepiandrosterone, is a naturally occuring steroid in the body. It is produced by the adrenal glands located at the top of the kidneys. DHEA is at highest levels in the body during a person's 20s; however, as we age, DHEA production steadily declines. This decline contributes to hormonal decrease during menopause for women and general testosterone loss in men. DHEA is most commonly taken in pill form and under doctor supervision.
Step 1
Submit to DHEA testing at your physician's office. This test is simple and requires only a saliva sample to determine levels of DHEA in your blood stream. Once your test results are received, the doctor will determine proper dosage of DHEA for your individual needs.
Step 2
Take your DHEA supplement first thing in the morning with a full glass of water. Supplements come in 25 to 50mg strengths and may be split in half, unless taken in capsule form, if the doctor has ordered a lower dosage. Capsules should only be used by those who are required to take a premeasured dosage.
Step 3
Take note of any side effects you may experience such as decreased appetite, nausea, aches or pains, and headache. Minor side effects may go away as your body adjusts to the supplement; however, keeping record and informing your doctor of these will help adjust your dosage if it becomes necessary. According to AIDS.org, there were no known side effects in doses up to 2,500mg other than increased acne in women.
Step 4
Consult your doctor if you feel that DHEA is not working for you. It takes roughly three to six months for your body to adjust to DHEA. After this time period, if you are showing no improvement, your doctor may recommend placing you on another form of hormone called pregnenolone. Both supplements are safely used in conjunction with each other, according to author and anti-aging specialist Michael Lam, M.D., MPH.
Tips and Warnings
- DHEA has been effective in helping patients suffering from AIDS to regain energy and immune system function.
- Athletes should not take DHEA as an enhancement steroid for muscle mass.
Member Comments