It has been shown that the hormone DHEA often declines 40.8-72.8% by age 70 or later, leading to hormonal imbalances that can affect one’s quality of life. Peak blood levels of DHEA occur at approximately age 25, decreasing progressively thereafter.1 Thus, scientists have been looking at ways of restoring DHEA to youthful levels, and are now discovering mechanisms by which this hormone protects against age-related decline.
Before attempting to restore DHEA to youthful levels, men should know their serum PSA (prostate specific antigen) level and have passed a digital rectal exam. Men with prostate cancer or severe benign prostate disease are advised to avoid DHEA since it can be converted into testosterone (and estrogen). Therefore, men are advised to have a PSA and digital rectal exam before initiating DHEA to rule out existing prostate disease.
It is important for men over 40 to consult their physician to check their PSA and DHEA-S serum levels every six to twelve months thereafter. Men should also periodically check their blood levels for free testosterone and estrogen to make sure that DHEA is following a youthful metabolic pathway. See the Male Hormone Restoration chapter in the Disease Prevention and Treatment book for additional hormone balance testing that can be done at the same time serum DHEA and PSA levels are being tested.
Women should consider estrogen and testosterone testing when they take their DHEA blood test in order to evaluate DHEA’s effect on their blood levels of these hormones.
Women who have been diagnosed with an estrogen-dependent cancer should consult their physicians before beginning the DHEA restoration process. Women taking DHEA should refer to the Female Hormone Restoration chapter in the Foundation’s Disease Prevention and Treatment book for information about restoring youthful hormone balance.
DHEA supplementation
The Life Extension offers DHEA supplements that conform to the following specifications:
Directions: The exact number of tablets to be taken should be determined by blood testing and the advice of a physician. Generally, place one to four tablets under the tongue, allow to dissolve and swallow. Take in the morning and/or afternoon. DHEA serum blood tests are suggested prior to and 3 to 6 weeks after initiating DHEA replacement therapy to optimize individual dosing. This product can be taken with or without food.
Ingredients: 1 tablet supplies:
DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone) 25 mg.
Other ingredients: sorbitol, microcrystalline cellulose, croscarmellose sodium, magnesium stearate.
Contains corn. This product contains NO milk, egg, fish, peanuts, crustacean shellfish (lobster, crab, shrimp), soybeans, tree nuts, wheat, yeast, gluten, or rice. Contains NO artificial sweeteners, flavors, colors, or preservatives.
Warning: Do not use DHEA if you are at risk for or have been diagnosed as having any type of hormonal cancer, such as prostate or breast cancer.
The information provided is for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace professional medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for personalized medical guidance.
