Dehydroepiandrosterone, called DHEA, is a steroid hormone produced in the adrenal glands that serves as precursor to other steroid hormones like estrogen and testosterone. DHEA levels fall significantly with age, stress, and illness. According to Life Extension Foundation research, DHEA supplementation works best in aging adults and can have a number of powerful health benefits.
DHEA and Brain Aging
DHEA is capable of increasing the concentration of acetylcholine in the brain, which is essential for short-term memory and can also protect the brain from shrinking that occurs with age and from prolonged stress. Low levels of circulating DHEA have also been identified in those suffering from Alzheimer's disease and dementia, according to research from the Life Extension Foundation. Time-released DHEA can help fight off brain aging with the recommended dosages of 400 mg daily for men and 350 mg daily for women.
DHEA and Immune Function
As you age, your immune system, responsible for fighting off infection, begins to decline in efficiency and effectiveness, putting you at an increased risk of illness. DHEA supplementation via time-released capsules has been associated with increased activity of the immune system, as well as increased production of vital immune system cells. DHEA can also assist in reducing systemic inflammation that is associated with viruses, explains clinical nutrition specialist Dr. Jonny Bowden, who recommends enhancing your immune system by supplementing with 50 to 100 mg of time-released DHEA daily.
DHEA and Cancer
Time-released DHEA has the potential to inhibit tumor growth in certain types of cancers including colon, lung, breast, and skin cancer, suggests the Life Extension Foundation. Research in both humans and mice demonstrate profound suppression in tumor growth by up to 70 percent at dosages of 50 to 1000 mg daily without any negative side effects, according to the Natural News website.
Caution
DHEA can be a very helpful supplement, however, you must consult your physician prior to beginning a DHEA regimen, especially if you are at an increased risk of prostate cancer.
References
- "Disease Prevention and Treatment"; Life Extension Foundation; 2004
- "The Most Effective Ways to Live Longer"; Jonny Bowden, PhD, CNS; 2010
- "Smart Drug News"; DHEA; Ward Dean, M.D. and Steven Fowkes; 1993
- "Natural News"; DHEA as a Cancer Fighter; Dani Veracity; August 2, 2005
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