DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is a steroid hormone produced primarily by the adrenal glands, which sit atop the kidneys. It is the most abundant circulating steroid hormone in the human body. DHEA serves as a precursor to both male and female sex hormones — the body converts it into androgens (such as testosterone) and oestrogens depending on the tissue and enzymatic activity.
How does DHEA change with age?
DHEA levels follow a distinctive age-related pattern. Production begins in the adrenal glands in early childhood, peaks in the mid-20s (typically between ages 20–30), and then declines steadily — by approximately 10% per decade. By the age of 70–80, DHEA levels may be only 10–20% of what they were at their peak. This age-related decline is one of the reasons DHEA supplementation has attracted research interest in the context of healthy ageing.
Where else is DHEA produced?
In addition to the adrenal glands, DHEA is also produced in smaller amounts in the gonads (testes and ovaries) and in the brain, where it functions as a neurosteroid — a steroid that modulates neuronal activity. The brain's DHEA production declines with age as well.
DHEA as a supplement
DHEA supplements are made from naturally occurring plant compounds — most commonly from wild yam (Dioscorea villosa) or soy, which contain diosgenin, a compound that is converted to DHEA in a laboratory process. The supplement itself is biochemically identical to the DHEA produced by the adrenal glands.
DHEA is a hormone and should be treated with appropriate care. It can affect hormone levels in the body. People with hormone-sensitive conditions (prostate, breast, uterine, or ovarian concerns), those taking hormone therapies, and anyone under 40 should consult a doctor before using DHEA.
Recent research
- Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), DHEA sulfate, and aging: Contribution of the DHEAge Study — Proceedings of the National Academy of Sciences, 2000. Authors: Baulieu EE et al. Serum DHEA-S concentrations rose significantly after 12 months of oral DHEA supplementation in men and women aged 60–79.
- DHEA and its transformation into androgens and estrogens in peripheral target tissues — Frontiers in Neuroendocrinology, 2001. Authors: Labrie F et al. DHEA undergoes intracrine conversion to androgens and estrogens in peripheral tissues including bone, skin, and adipose.
- Effects of Replacement Dose of DHEA in Men and Women of Advancing Age — Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 1994. Authors: Morales AJ et al. Serum IGF-1 concentrations and self-reported well-being improved following DHEA replacement in older adults.
Available product
Supplements & More carries NatureBell DHEA 50 mg (100 tablets). Imported from the United States, delivered across Lebanon with cash on delivery. Recommended for adults over 40. Consult your doctor before use if you have any medical condition or are taking medication.