Although traditional medications are available for most illnesses, diseases and conditions, some people prefer using alternative therapies to treat their ailments. Among these alternative therapies, pregnenolone supplementation has been used since the 1940s to treat a wide variety of conditions. Although pregnenolone can benefit the body in several ways, it also produces a wide variety of side effects, including nausea.
Identification
The Antiaging-Systems website defines pregnenolone as "a naturally occurring metabolite that is made in your body." Made entirely from cholesterol, pregnenolone is the "basic raw material for all steroid hormones in the body," according to the website. The steroid hormones produced by pregnenolone include progesterone, corticosteroids, estrogens, androgens, mineralocorticoids and DHEA.
Uses
According to the American Cancer Society, pregnenolone is mainly promoted to improve memory and alertness, along with reducing the effects of stress, fatigue and depression. In some cases, pregnenolone is also promoted as an alternative treatment for arthritis, osteoporosis, obesity, menopause, multiple sclerosis and certain types of cancer. However, the American Cancer Society website goes on to explain that "available clinical evidence does not support these claims." Always consult your doctor before beginning a supplementation program.
Common Side Effects
Since the body uses pregnenolone to make testosterone and DHEA, high doses of the supplement may cause a person to become aggressive and irritable. In some cases, pregnenolone supplementation may alter the body's normal hormone balance, triggering the growth of facial hair in females and enlarged breasts in males. Insomnia, acne, oily skin and hair loss are also common side effects of pregnenolone use. Mild gastrointestinal side effects, such as nausea, have also been linked to pregnenolone use.
Controlling Nausea
Among pregnenolone users who experience nausea, certain precautions can be taken to reduce the severity of nausea. During a bout of nausea, drink cold clear beverages and eat only bland foods. Avoid greasy or sugary foods, which could make the nausea more pronounced. Eat and drink slowly and avoid strenuous activity directly after eating. If the nausea begins to significantly impact your diet or progresses to vomiting, consult a health care professional.
Serious Side Effects
Since pregnenolone interacts with GABA receptors in the central nervous system, pregnenolone supplements are contraindicated in people with a history of seizures. The supplements have also been shown to lower the levels of HDL (good) cholesterol in the body, raising a person's risk for heart disease. Other serious side effects of pregnenolone supplementation include abnormal heart rhythm and liver problems. According to the VitaminDeal website, pregnenolone should be avoided by pregnant women, nursing mothers, children and people with prostate, uterine or breast cancer.
