What is DHEA, and Why Should I Be Interested in It?

What is DHEA all about? Research has shown that DHEA helps the body to burn calories for energy rather than to store them as fat. DHEA blocks an enzyme named G6PD (glucose-6-phosphate-dehydrogenase) that is not only essential for fat tissue production, but also promotes cancer cell growth. DHEA is associated with anti-aging properties because of this added energy and then it has been proven to reduce stress in the body which always promotes signs of aging.

What is DHEA? DHEA is a natural steroid hormone produced from cholesterol by the adrenal glands which is scientifically identified as is dehydroepiandrosterone. DHEA is chemically similar to testosterone and estrogen and when taken into the body it is easily converted into those hormones for either the man or the woman. This hormone has, in the past, been typically identified with the male population, but recent studies show that DHEA also plays a significant part in the women's aging health. In the body, it is converted to testosterone or estrogen and is found to decline in both men and women as you age. Production peaks in your early 20's, and declines about 10% every 10 years. So, somewhere in your 40's your body is producing about 50% what it used to and it is logical to consider replacing the DHEA for HRT, or hormone replacement therapy. Advocates of DHEA recommend it to prevent the effects of aging, and there are many studies that indicates DHEA is directly related to the therapeutic effects in many chronic conditions including cardiovascular disease, diabetes, obesity, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, Alzheimer's disease, disorders of the immune system, depression, and osteoporosis. For each of these medical conditions this steroid hormone has been linked with positive reactions.

DHEA, maintains normal sex hormone levels, inhibits the damaging effects of stress, and increases the production of antioxidant enzymes in the liver. As you remember from your Biology class, the liver is the organ in the body that purifies and removes all toxins from everything you take into your system. An alcoholic tends to have a polluted liver and liver disease is the result. But a healthy liver that encourages anti-oxidant properties, will promote a healthy system. Another need to have DHEA for HRT is because low levels of DHEA has been linked to chronic fatigue, weakness, depression, headaches, and can make one susceptible to infections and disease. It's positive effect on the immune system has led researchers to believe that DHEA may play an important role in fighting AIDS, which is an immune deficiency. Research has shown that DHEA supplements in HRT can improve mood, increase energy and libido, counteract the effects of stress, preserve muscles, strengthen the immune system, and help prevent cancer and heart disease. The quickest result in the addition of the hormone into a system low in DHEA is an elevated mood and sense of physical well being.

To determine your levels of DHEA and determine whether you need DHEA for HRT simply ask your doctor for a test, which is taken by the blood. This will allow you to consult with your doctor on any HRT that you may need. It is recommended that you do some research yourself, by surfing the Web, because new studies and information is becoming more available everyday.