Although roughly the size of a walnut, the adrenal glands play a crucial role in endocrine health and are responsible for your body's production of necessary stress hormones and the vital steroid DHEA. While the amount of DHEA in the body naturally decreases with age, diminished levels may be associated with symptoms of fatigue and discomfort. The relationship between the adrenal glands and stress suggests that reducing stress and engaging in a healthier lifestyle may help to minimize low DHEA symptoms.
Adrenal Glands
Your adrenals are two small, but important, glands located at the top of the kidneys that produce the hormones cortisol and adrenaline. Both cortisol and adrenaline are considered "stress" hormones for their role in protecting the body in instances of anxiety and danger. While stress hormones serve a valuable role in survival and preservation, sustained elevated levels can take a serious toll on health and contribute to what experts such as Michael Lam, M.D., and Marcelle Pick, OB-GYN, N.P., describe as adrenal exhaustion or adrenal fatigue.
DHEA
DHEA, or dehydroepiandrosterone, is a steroid derived from cholesterol stored in the adrenal glands. The precursor to the estrogen, progesterone and testosterone, DHEA plays a central role in how your body manufactures sex hormones. DHEA exists in greater quantities in men than in women, and amounts typically peak during your 20s and decrease significantly thereafter. According to nurse practitioner Marcelle Pick, by the age of 70 men and women have approximately 20 percent of the DHEA as they had in their 20s.
Low DHEA
Because of the interactions between adrenal hormones and stress, lifestyle factors may affect the production of DHEA. Symptoms of low DHEA include extreme fatigue, depression, muscle weakness, aching joints, lowered libido and immune suppression.
Adrenal Health and Low DHEA Treatment
Although supplemental DHEA is available for over-the-counter purchase at many pharmacies and health food stores, as of 2011 there is no research to support that taking DHEA will relieve the symptoms associated with low levels. To reduce stress and support the health of adrenal glands, lifestyle modifications and proper nutrition may play an important part. Marcelle Pick advises that you increase your level of physical activity, minimize daily stress and obtain adequate rest. Dr. Michael Lam recommends dietary changes, such as eliminating caffeine, alcohol and sugar from your diet, and eating small, protein-balanced meals throughout the day to help maintain even blood sugar levels.
Caution
As of 2011, there is considerable controversy over the theory of adrenal fatigue, and experts, such as Dr. Todd Nippoldt at the Mayo Clinic, point out that stress-induced adrenal disorders are not an actual diagnosis. While stress can take a significant toll on your health and well-being, there is no substantiated evidence to indicate that high stress levels directly affect the adrenal glands and contribute to low DHEA. Dr. Nippoldt cautions that by focusing on adrenal fatigue you may run the risk of ignoring other underlying health problems, such as depression. Before taking supplemental DHEA or perusing treatment for adrenal fatigue, consult your doctor to discuss your symptoms and the possibility of other diagnoses.
