From the Guidelines
To increase DHEA levels, consider taking DHEA supplements, typically starting with 25-50mg daily for women and 50-100mg daily for men, preferably in the morning, as supported by the most recent study 1.
Key Considerations
- Lifestyle modifications can also help boost natural DHEA production, including:
- Engaging in regular exercise, particularly high-intensity interval training
- Managing stress through meditation or yoga
- Getting 7-9 hours of quality sleep nightly
- Maintaining a balanced diet rich in healthy fats and proteins
- Avoiding excessive alcohol consumption
- Before starting supplementation, consult with a healthcare provider for appropriate dosing and to rule out contraindications, especially if you have hormone-sensitive conditions like certain cancers or are taking medications that might interact with DHEA, as noted in 1.
Important Notes
- DHEA is a precursor hormone that naturally declines with age, and supplementation may help address symptoms of low levels including fatigue, decreased muscle mass, reduced libido, and mood changes.
- Results typically take 2-3 months of consistent use to become noticeable.
- The safety of vaginal hormones, including DHEA, has not been firmly established in survivors of estrogen-dependent cancers, as mentioned in 1.
- A study published in 2021 1 discusses the effects of energy deficiency on female athletes, including hormonal alterations, but does not provide direct evidence for increasing DHEA levels.
Recommendation
Based on the most recent and highest quality study 1, DHEA supplementation is a viable option for increasing DHEA levels, but it is essential to consult with a healthcare provider before starting supplementation.
From the Research
Factors Influencing DHEA Levels
- DHEA levels can be increased through supplementation, as seen in studies where participants received a daily dose of DHEA 2, 3, 4, 5
- The dosage and duration of DHEA supplementation can impact its effects on the body, with varying results seen in different studies 4, 5
- DHEA levels may also be influenced by factors such as age, gender, and underlying medical conditions, such as adrenal insufficiency 2, 3, 5
Effects of DHEA Supplementation
- DHEA supplementation has been shown to have beneficial effects on physical and psychological well-being, muscle strength, and bone density in some studies 2, 4, 5
- DHEA may also have immunomodulatory effects, increasing the number of certain immune cells and improving immune function 2
- However, the evidence for DHEA's effects on cardiovascular disease, cancer, and other conditions is limited and inconsistent 6
Individual Responses to DHEA
- Individual responses to DHEA supplementation can vary, with some people experiencing significant benefits and others showing little to no response 4, 5
- Gender-specific responses to DHEA have been observed, with women showing increases in certain hormones and men showing improvements in muscle strength and fat body mass 4
- The presence of underlying medical conditions, such as adrenal insufficiency, can also impact an individual's response to DHEA supplementation 3, 5