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WHAT IS DHEA?
DHEA is an acronym for the hormone
dehydroepiandrosterone.
DHEA is the most plentiful androgenic hormone produced by the adrenal
glands and it is quite important to body builders and athletes because in men,
around 50% of all testosterone is derived from it, while women derive over 75%
of their estrogen from it and nearly 100% after menopause. Levels of DHEA are
quite high at birth, drop during childhood, and peak during young adulthood. The
levels continue to drop throughout life. This hormone is available synthetically
as a nutritional supplement.
HOW DOES WORK?
DHEA is a
pre-cursor hormone, as it leads to the production of other hormones. When this
compound is supplemented, it has been shown to have many beneficial. Although
the methods by which it actually works are not fully understood, research shows
it may be a sort of fountain of youth, slowing the aging process. It has also
been shown to help people lose weight, burn fat and build muscle, and increase
sex drive. Dietary supplements of DHEA can help maintain proper levels in the
body and can aid a person in their overall well being. University of California,
San Francisco researchers found that DHEA levels are lower in people who are
depressed, and supplements of 30-90mg per day reportedly improved their state.
DHEA
may also have
positive effects on reducing cancer risk, controlling immunity, regulating blood
sugar levels, reducing blood pressure, and decrease allergic states. Research
also shows that in limited trials, may help to increase lean muscle mass,
elevate function of the immune system, lower cholesterol, and have reversing
effects on diabetes.
Because DHEA levels decrease with age, people above middle age can have
incredible results as the studies above have shown. It can aid people that
suffer from depression and lupus; but, importantly, body builders or athletes
can have some of the greatest beneficial results. They can use it to help build
strong muscles and lower body fat. It is also said to help keep the brain clear
and the skin smooth as well!
HOW MUCH AND WHEN?
When used in the correct dosages, DHEA is very effective.
But, with any kind or hormone or compound, when used incorrectly it can cause
problems. The exact right dosage may vary with each individual, so consulting a
physician is probably a good idea. But, a good recommendation to start with is
between 5-25mg daily. Women and men over age 60 are commonly prescribed 50mg and
100mg, respectively. Obviously since younger people produce more DHEA naturally,
they should take less. Pregnant or nursing women should not take it
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