Your adrenal gland produces the hormone dehydroepiandrosterone, or DHEA, but by the time you reach adulthood your production of DHEA slows down considerably. DHEA is also sold as a supplement and taken for a range of reasons, from slowing the aging process to inducing childbirth. DHEA may have an effect on stress, although clinical tests on humans are lacking. Talk to your doctor about your stress symptoms and whether DHEA is right for you.
Stress
When you encounter a threatening situation, your body releases cortisol, a hormone that heightens your senses in preparation for reacting to the threat. Unfortunately, minor stress triggers may result in the frequent release of cortisol, leaving you feeling stressed out and at increased risk of developing heart disorders, insomnia, indigestion and other symptoms, according to MayoClinic.com
DHEA Supplementation
DHEA supplements, made from wild yam extract, are taken in the morning in a single dose of up to 50 mg, according to the "Encyclopedia of Dietary Supplements." Potential benefits from the supplement include the treatment of obesity, cancer prevention and increased resistance to antibacterial infections. The "Encyclopedia" also lists the potential reduction of cortisol. Although DHEA may help control cortisol levels, science does not yet confirm this benefit.
Studies
Studies of the effect of DHEA supplements on human stress are lacking, but a 2000 study, conducted at the Medical College of Virginia, indicated that DHEA acted as an antistress hormone in rats.
Considerations
Although derived from a natural substance, DHEA supplementation is not without risk, and long-term studies of its effects are unreported. Because DHEA may increase sex hormones, it may also increase the risk of estrogen-related disorders. Those under 40, pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers should not take DHEA, according to the "Encyclopedia of Dietary Supplements."
DHEA may interfere with medications you're already taking, including oral contraceptives and drugs used to treat heart conditions. Use DHEA only under the supervision of a medical professional.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Constant Stress Puts Your Health at Risk
- "Anti-stress Effects of Dehydroepiandrosterone: Protection of Rats Against Repeated Immobilization Stress-induced Weight Loss, Glucocorticoid Receptor Production, and Lipid Peroxidation."; Hu Y., et al, April 1, 2000
- "Encyclopedia of Dietary Supplements"; Paul M. Coates, 2005
