DHEA

It has been shown that the serum hormone DHEA often declines by 75-80% from peak levels 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. The marked decline in serum DHEA with age is believed to play a role in health problems associated with aging. Thus, scientists have been looking at ways of restoring DHEA to youthful levels to prevent or reverse these health issues, and are now discovering mechanisms by which this hormone protects against age-related decline.

Since 1981, several hundred studies have been published on DHEA’s various benefits, including immunomodulatory properties as well as positive effects on mood, quality of life, and body composition. It has been proposed that restoring the circulating levels of DHEA to those found in young people may improve well-being and sexual function. DHEA has also been shown to support a healthy circulatory system and joint/bone health.

Because of the overwhelming evidence connecting low levels of DHEA to problems associated with aging, Life Extension suggests that all people over age 40 begin DHEA therapy. For most people, the starting dose of DHEA is between 15-75 mg, taken in one daily dose. Many studies have used a daily dose of 50 mg. Ideally, DHEA replacement therapy should begin with blood testing to establish a base range. Since almost everyone over age 35-40 has lower than optimal levels of DHEA, most people begin supplementation and test their blood DHEA levels later to make sure they are taking the proper dose.

Caution: DHEA should not be taken if you have a history of hormone related cancers (ie: breast, uterine, cervical or prostate).