What is DHEA?
DHEA, or dehydroepiandrosterone, is an important hormone that is produced naturally in the body. DHEA is considered a "prohormone" because it is a precursor to other hormones in the body like testosterone and estrogen.
DHEA levels peak in your 20s and 30s, after which they steadily decline with age. Having optimal levels of DHEA is important for overall health and wellbeing. Here's a quick rundown of what you need to know about this vital hormone:
- What Does DHEA Do?
DHEA has several important functions in the body. Some of the key benefits of DHEA include:
- Supports immune system health - DHEA has been shown to enhance immune function and reduce inflammation.
- Increases energy levels - Optimal DHEA levels are associated with higher energy, reduced fatigue, and improved wellbeing.
- Boosts libido and sexual function - DHEA supports healthy testosterone levels, which in turn enhances libido and sexual function.
- Builds muscle mass - By supporting testosterone, DHEA helps increase muscle mass and strength, especially when combined with exercise.
- Enhances mood - Research shows DHEA can improve depression, anxiety, and overall sense of wellbeing.
- Supports healthy aging - Declining DHEA levels contribute to age-related health decline. Maintaining youthful DHEA levels can promote healthy aging.
- Optimizes hormone balance - DHEA is a building block for hormones. Keeping your DHEA levels optimal helps maintain hormonal balance as you age.
- How Can You Increase Your DHEA Levels?
If you're over 30, chances are your DHEA levels could use a boost. Here are science-backed ways to optimize your DHEA levels naturally:
- Exercise - Especially weight/resistance training. High intensity interval training (HIIT) is great too.
- Reduce stress - Chronic stress depletes DHEA. Try meditation, yoga, deep breathing.
- Get good sleep - DHEA is produced mostly at night. Aim for 7-9 hours per night.
- Eat healthy fats - Coconut oil, olive oil, avocados, nuts and seeds boost DHEA.
- Take DHEA supplements - Under medical supervision, DHEA supplements can restore youthful levels.
Our friends at Balance Hormone Center are experts at testing hormone levels and creating customized treatment plans involving bioidentical hormones like DHEA to help patients regain optimal health and vitality. Contact them today for a consultation!
Conclusion
In summary, DHEA is a crucial anti-aging hormone that declines with age but can be optimized through diet, lifestyle, and supplementation. Maintaining robust DHEA levels can keep you feeling youthful and vibrant as you age. By exercising regularly, managing stress, getting enough sleep, eating healthy fats, and considering DHEA therapy under medical supervision, you can enjoy the myriad benefits this prohormone offers for many years to come.
So don't let your DHEA levels go unchecked - get tested, and take proactive steps to keep your DHEA at healthy optimal levels. Your mind and body will thank you!