
Can Dehydroepiandrosterone [DHEA]
Prevent Aging? Does it provide health
benefits?
OBSERVATION - THE FACT
Dehydroepiandrosterone or DHEA is made from
cholesterol by the adrenal glands, which sit on top of each
kidney. Production of this substance peaks in the mid-20s,
and gradually declines with age in most people. [1].
Deficiency of (dehydroepiandrosterone) DHEA is
associated with lupus erythematosus, diabetes mellitus,
Alzheimer's disease and some cancers. DHEA
supplements have shown some benefits for these or other
conditions in observational clinical studies and laboratory
studies. [2]
ABOUT dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)
Supplements of DHEA can be bought without a
prescription and are sold as ?anti-aging remedies.? Some
proponents of these products claim that DHEA
supplements improve energy, strength, and immunity.
DHEA is also said to increase muscle and decrease fat. [1]
DHEA SIDE EFFECTS
DO NOT OVERDOSE YOURSELF WITH DHEA!!
Although the long-term (over 1 year) effects of DHEA
supplements have not been studied, there are early signs
that these supplements, even when taken briefly, may
have several detrimental effects on the body including liver
damage. [1]
Researchers are concerned that DHEA supplements may
cause high levels of estrogen or testosterone in some
people. This is important because testosterone may play a
role in prostate cancer, and higher levels of estrogen are
associated with an increased risk of breast cancer. It is not
yet known for certain if supplements of estrogen and
testosterone, or supplements of DHEA, also increase the
risk of developing these types of cancer. In women, high
testosterone levels can cause acne and growth of facial
hair. [1]
HOME
REFERENCE
[1] National Institute on Aging, U. S. Department of Health
and Human Services, Public Health Service, National
Institutes of Health January 2005
[2] Olech E et al, DHEA supplementation: the claims in
perspective. Cleve Clin J Med 2005 Nov;72(11):956-6,
968, 970-1
THIS ARTICLE IS FOR YOUR REFERENCE ONLY. IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS, PLEASE,
CONSULT WITH YOUR DOCTOR. ALL RIGHT RESERVED 2008

Zhion.com
a site to share health knowledge