Dehydroepiandrosterone, or DHEA, is a hormone naturally produced by the body that is present in both males and females and can have potentially dangerous side effects if an imbalance occurs. According to the Mayo Clinic, elevated levels of DHEA might increase the risk of breast, ovarian, prostate and other hormone-related cancers. Greasy skin and hair, acne, facial hair growth in women and excess body odor are signs of too much DHEA. You should consult a doctor before attempting to reduce your DHEA levels, as DHEA deficiency can result in depression, induction of labor and systemic lupus erythematosus.
Step 1
Visit your doctor to have your DHEA levels tested. Your doctor will be able to give you accurate information about any risks or complications that might result from lowering your DHEA levels.
Step 2
Reduce your intake of animal protein, animal fats and vitamin E, all of which have been shown to increase levels of DHEA. Vitamin E is found in foods such as nuts, seeds and spinach.
Step 3
Ask your doctor about medications that can help decrease DHEA. If you are a woman, you might benefit from taking a birth control pill, which has been shown to decrease DHEA. Certain antifungal antibiotics have also been shown to decrease DHEA.
