Dehydroepiandrosterone, or DHEA, is a naturally occurring hormone produced by the adrenal gland. Your body uses this hormone in a variety of biological processes. Typically, your body is able to produce sufficient amounts of DHEA, but in some cases, you may need to take dietary supplements containing the hormone.
How Much DHEA is Safe?
DHEA supplements are available in capsule, tablet or injection forms. You should take only 25 to 200 mg of DHEA per day, MayoClinic.com reports. In patients suffering from AIDS-related depression, higher doses of DHEA, ranging from 200 to 500 mg per day, have proved effective. However, doses exceeding this limit may cause adverse side effects. Furthermore, DHEA may interfere with the normal development of children, and children under 18 years old should not take the hormone.
How Does DHEA Work?
DHEA is a hormone commonly produced in the adrenal glands and testes. Typically, DHEA is transformed into other hormones such as androstenedione, estrogen and testosterone, according to MedlinePlus, a service of the National Institutes of Health. DHEA levels commonly fall as you age and if you are suffering from depression. By increasing your intake of the hormone, and thus increasing the levels in your body, you help your body stave off diseases such as depression that are associated with low hormone levels.
What is DHEA Used For?
DHEA can be used for a variety of conditions. One is adrenal insufficiency. This is a disease caused by the adrenal gland's inability to produce certain hormones. Adding DHEA to the diet of patients suffering from this condition may improve well-being, quality of life, sex drive, physical prowess and increase hormone levels, MayoClinic.com explains. DHEA can also be used to alleviate the symptoms of depression and prevent obesity. Patients suffering from systemic lupus erythematosus, or SLE, which is an autoimmune disease, may also benefit from including DHEA in their diets.
What are the Side Effects of DHEA?
Like most supplements, DHEA can have unintended side effects and you should consult a doctor prior to taking the supplement. Some potential side effects include an increase of breast and prostate cancer, the American Cancer Society warns. You may also be at a greater risk of suffering from cardiac disease, stroke or diabetes. DHEA may also cause abnormal menstruation, acne, liver problems, hair loss and oily skin.
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