What Are the Benefits of DHEA for Women?

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and its sulfate form DHEA-S are the most abundant circulating hormones in the blood. Often called "the hormone of youth," DHEA levels peak during a woman's twenties and steadily declines thereafter. DHEA gets converted to estrogens and androgens in the body. Androgens are masculinizing hormones; their effects stimulate bone tissue, fat burning and libido, but can also lead to a deepened voice, balding, facial hair growth and acne.

Anti-aging

A 1994 article published in the "Journal of Endocrinology and Metabolism" investigated the hypothesis that a decline in DHEA contributes to the degenerative physical and mental changes that mark the aging process. The nightly administration of a 50 mg replacement dose of DHEA in 17 women, 40 to 70 years of age, over a 6-month period was associated with an increase in perceived physical and psychological well-being in 84 percent of the women. No side effects were noted in the treatment group. In a 2002 "Trends in Endocrinology and Metabolism" article, researchers noted that while DHEA does have anti-aging effects, it may not be beneficial to every aging woman. Focusing on those patients with adrenal insufficiency, androgen deficiency, those receiving chronic steroid treatments and mood disorders, offers the greatest benefit.

Libido

DHEA is considered an androgen, or testosterone-like substance. A 1999 "Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism" article stated that the decline of androgens during the menopausal years can lead to the common complaint of low libido. Parameters of libido, such as intensity of sexual drive, arousal, frequency of sexual fantasies, satisfaction, pleasure and relevancy to daily life, were noted to improve with androgen replacement. A 2007 "Oxford Journal" article states that the DHEA-libido connection requires further investigation, but women with adrenal insufficiency and low libido seem to benefit the most from DHEA supplementation.

Bone Density

The effects of DHEA are related to the conversion of DHEA into the active hormones estrogen and testosterone. Age-related decreases in DHEA run parallel to age-related decreases in bone density, so DHEA has been studied for its protective role against osteoporosis. A 2008 "Osteoporosis International" article found that a 1-year supplementation of 50 mg of DHEA improved women's bone mass density, particularly in the lumbar spine.

Insulin Resistant and Belly Fat

A 2004 article in the "Journal of the American Medical Association" notes that as people age, belly fat accumulation increases, as does insulin resistance. In this preliminary placebo-controlled study, participants given 50 mg of DHEA per day over 6 months had significant reductions in abdominal fat concentrations, and the sensitivity of insulin to glucose in the blood improved considerably. The action of DHEA stimulates the burning of fat within the cells for energy, and partial inhibits fat production. As body fat improves, so does the responsiveness of the insulin receptors.

Systemic Lupus Erythematosus (SLE)

Lupus is a disease that disproportionately affects women, especially those of childbearing age. Hormonal influences have therefore been a theory for the cause or progression of the disease. A 2001 "Alternative Medicine Review" article on natural medicine and lupus notes that lupus is marked by a high level of estrogen metabolites, and low yet deactivated levels of testosterone. Its authors speak of the use of DHEA for this condition. An "Arthritis & Rheumatism" journal research trial in 2002 notes that DHEA significantly reduced the number of flare-ups of the disease and improved subjective assessment of disease activity.

References

• "Oxford Journal": DHEA therapy for women: effect on sexual function and wellbeing
• "Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism": Effects of Replacement Dose of Dehydroepiandrosterone in Men and Women of Advancing Age
• "Trends in Endocrinology and Metabolism": DHEA treatment: myth or reality?
• "Osteoporosis International": Effect of dehydroepiandrosterone supplementation on bone mineral density, bone markers, and body composition in older adults
• "Journal of American Medical Association": Effect of DHEA on Abdominal Fat and Insulin Action in Elderly Women and Men