DHEA

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a naturally occurring precursor hormone. It is produced in several organs in the body including the adrenal, ovary, brain and testicles. DHEA supplements are said to increase energy, enhance memory and cognitive function, as well as improve immunity and reduce the effects of stress.

The body has enzymes which can convert DHEA into the male sex hormone, testosterone and the female sex homers estrone and estradiol. When individuals are suspected of having disorders where the sex hormones are not produced, DHEA levels are routinely measured to detect the activity of the glands.

DHEA supplements have previously been used to treat lupus, Alzheimer's disease and even depression. Some patients have shown a remarkable improvement, but the reason why the drug does not work in all patients still remains a mystery.

Because DHEA is synthesized in to hormones, testosterone and estradiol, there is always a concern that in some individuals it may increase the risk of hormone sensitive cancers like breast, prostate and ovary.

The major use of DHEA supplement has been in the body build industry and sports. Up to now, DHEA was widely available as a food supplement available in herbal and health stores. However, deaths of several wrestlers and body builders have led to the Congress urging the FDA to classify it as a controlled drug in the USA.

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