Your body naturally produces the steroid hormone DHEA, which plays various roles including facilitating the production of estrogen and testosterone. Research suggests supplementing with this hormone might improve symptoms of the inflammatory bowel disease ulcerative colitis. Not enough evidence exists, however, to draw any firm conclusions about the therapeutic effects of DHEA for this type of disease. Supplementing with high doses of DHEA might pose several risks, and you should not use it without the supervision of your doctor.
How DHEA Might Help Ulcerative Colitis
Conditions like ulcerative colitis result from inflammation of the affected areas. Inflammation-causing proteins called cytokines, in particular, appear to play a role in the genesis of ulcerative colitis, according to the Life Extension Foundation, which conducts scientific research on various fronts, including the role of natural substances in treating disease. It notes that DHEA might help reduce elevated levels of these proteins, which would directly affect this condition. The University of Maryland Medical Center states people with inflammatory bowel disease tend to have decreased levels of this hormone.
Research
Extensive research investigating the effects of DHEA on ulcerative colitis is lacking. One study, published in the February 2003 issue of "Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics," examined the effects of DHEA on patients with ulcerative colitis and Crohn's disease, another inflammatory bowel disease. Of the 13 ulcerative colitis subjects, eight responded positively to the treatment, with six going into full remission.
Dosage
The University of Michigan Health system notes the above study used a dose of 200 mg daily for eight weeks. This is considered a large dose for DHEA, and you should not use an amount this high on your own. Your doctor must supervise your treatment to monitor you for any adverse effects.
Considerations for Use
Do not use DHEA if you are pregnant or breastfeeding. Due to its effects on sex hormones, the Mayo Clinic notes a theoretically increased risk of developing ovarian, breast and prostate cancer. It might also alter levels of insulin, thyroid hormone and cholesterol. Hormones affect every process in your body, and if you suffer from any sort of health condition in addition to ulcerative colitis, it is important not to use DHEA without talking to your doctor first about potential risks.
The University of Maryland Medical Center reports DHEA might negatively interact with barbiturates, corticosteroids, estrogen and diabetes medications.
References
- University of Michigan Health System: Ulcerative Colitis
- Life Extension Foundation: Colitis
- ''Alimentary Pharmacology and Therapeutics''; Patients with Refractory Crohn's Disease or Ulcerative Colitis Respond to Dehydroepiandrosterone: A Pilot Study: T. Andus, et al.; February 2003
- Mayoclinic.com: DHEA Side Effects
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Dehydroepiandrosterone
