DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone) is a hormone naturally produced by the body's adrenal glands. Over time, DHEA levels decline, leading many individuals to seek supplementation for health benefits. Oral DHEA therapy has been shown to offer therapeutic effects, including hormonal balance, improved cognitive function, and enhanced metabolic parameters. DHEA supplements can support various bodily functions, including hormone regulation, muscle strength, cognitive function, and even sexual health. With an array of options available, we've compiled a list of the best DHEA supplements to help you choose the right one.
1. Designs for Health DHEA
Designs for Health DHEA
About This Item:
Designs for Health DHEA provides 25mg of DHEA per capsule, supporting hormone synthesis and promoting healthy aging. DHEA sulfate plays a crucial role in hormone synthesis and offers various health benefits, including improved cognitive performance and management of metabolic syndrome features. Made with non-GMO ingredients, this supplement is ideal for those looking to balance their adrenal and sex hormones while maintaining energy and vitality.
Key Features:
- 25mg per Capsule: Supports hormone balance, energy levels, and muscle integrity.
- Adrenal Gland Support: Helps the adrenal glands synthesize essential hormones like testosterone and estrogen.
- Gluten and Soy-Free: Safe for individuals with dietary sensitivities.
Customer Review:
"My husband and I have been using Designs for Health DHEA 25mg - DHEA Supplement for Men + Women for several years. We trust the brand. It was first prescribed for us by my dermatologist and then again a few years later by a nutritionist. We have learned that we feel more tired when we are without our DHEA so we are sure it works for us. Since this specific brand was recommended to us by two separate health care professionals, we are willing to pay a bit more for it than the cheaper brands. We are told that this brand is carefully tested and contains what it says it does. Our experience using it is proof enough for us."
2. Douglas Laboratories DHEA
Douglas Laboratories DHEA
About This Item:
Douglas Laboratories offers a micronized DHEA supplement with 10mg per capsule, designed to boost immune function, hormone balance, and bone metabolism. Studies have shown that dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate concentrations play a crucial role in health and hormone balance, making this fast-absorbing formula highly effective for individuals seeking hormone support and better overall health.
Key Features:
- Micronized for Absorption: Ensures quicker uptake by the body, supporting faster results.
- Supports Immune Function: Helps maintain immune system balance, making it suitable for older adults and individuals with adrenal insufficiency.
- Non-GMO & Vegan: Clean, allergy-friendly supplement without unnecessary additives.
Customer Review:
"I've been taking DHEA for a long time and I can tell a difference. DHEA is naturally produced by your adrenal gland. As you age, production lessens. It helps with leveling testosterone and estrogen for women. Lots of benefits like, healthy weight management, reduce stress and fatigue, and helps with mood swings."
3. Integrative Therapeutics DHEA-5
Integrative Therapeutics DHEA-5
About This Item:
Integrative Therapeutics DHEA-5 offers a 5mg DHEA supplement specifically formulated to support healthy aging and hormone balance. Free from gluten, soy, and artificial additives, this product is excellent for maintaining energy levels and hormone production.
Key Features:
- 5mg per Capsule: Ideal for individuals needing a lower dose to maintain optimal DHEA levels.
- Promotes Healthy Aging: Helps combat symptoms of aging, such as cognitive decline and physical performance issues.
- Allergen-Free: Safe for those with food sensitivities.
Customer Review:
"Just what I needed to get me through this phase of menopause. Highly recommend starting with the low-dose and gradually increasing if need be. Increases estrogen levels, so not for everyone."
4. Pure Encapsulations DHEA
Pure Encapsulations DHEA
About This Item:
Pure Encapsulations DHEA is micronized for optimal absorption, offering 25mg per capsule to support healthy hormone metabolism, sexual function, and cognitive health. This supplement is made with hypoallergenic ingredients and is suitable for both men and women.
Key Features:
- 25mg per Capsule: Supports bone density, muscle strength, and adrenal gland function.
- Micronized for Absorption: Designed to be easily absorbed by the body for faster results.
- Hypoallergenic: Free from common allergens and GMOs.
Customer Review:
"I'm in my 60s and was feeling sluggish, tired, no energy. Been taking Pure for 45 days. My energy level is 200% better, not tired anymore, not going to bed super early anymore. This is the real thing, not a gimmick. Just got another bottle a couple days ago. Buy it!"
5. Life Extension DHEA
Life Extension DHEA
About This Item:
Life Extension DHEA is designed to restore youthful hormone levels and support healthy immune function. DHEA can help regulate blood pressure by maintaining hormonal balance. Offering 25mg per capsule, this supplement enhances mood, lean muscle mass, and overall well-being.
Key Features:
- Supports Healthy Aging: Promotes longevity and vitality by balancing DHEA levels.
- Boosts Lean Muscle Mass: Helps elderly adults maintain muscle strength and physical performance.
- Non-GMO & Gluten-Free: Clean, high-quality supplement sourced from premium ingredients.
Customer Review:
"Dr recently suggested to try the DHEA due to my hormone levels were off slightly. Have been taking this for several months now and I can tell the difference highly recommend to those who are slightly off their levels. We have a repeat shipment highly recommend."
6. NatureBell DHEA
NatureBell DHEA
About This Item:
NatureBell DHEA offers 50mg of pure DHEA per capsule, promoting hormonal balance, energy levels, and healthy aging. This supplement is designed to support adrenal function, mood stabilization, and overall vitality, making it ideal for both men and women.
Key Features:
- 50mg per Capsule: High-strength dose to support hormone regulation and enhance energy levels.
- Supports Adrenal Health: Assists in maintaining optimal adrenal function for stress management and hormonal balance.
- Non-GMO & Gluten-Free: Made with high-quality, clean ingredients suitable for various dietary needs.
Customer Review:
"As a biochemical scientist, I constantly test over the counter products for quality and efficacy. This brand of DHEA turned nighttime nocturnal erections from zero to 80 in 3 days. Only one capsule every 12 hours is necessary dhea levels are suboptimal. I had lab results for dhea and testosterone. Dhea was 32, range is 90-662. Testosterone was 147 range 245-758. Each lab has different ranges, but I'll report back after the next lab draws are done. COVID-19 depletes hormones in subjects with other health conditions and my opinion is based on research and the ongoing battle our bodies are subjected to with this variant in our environment."
Buyer's Guide to DHEA Supplements
What is DHEA?
DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone) is a steroid hormone produced primarily in the adrenal glands. It plays a crucial role in the production of male and female sex hormones, such as testosterone and estrogen. However, DHEA levels naturally decline with age, which is why supplementation is often recommended for those seeking to improve hormone balance, bone density, and muscle strength.
Benefits of DHEA Supplements
- Improves Hormone Balance: Taking DHEA supplements can help balance sex hormones, particularly in postmenopausal women and elderly adults.
- Supports Bone Density: DHEA supplementation has been shown to reduce bone loss in older adults, particularly women.
- Enhances Muscle Strength and Performance: For individuals with adrenal insufficiency or declining DHEA levels, supplementation can lead to improved physical performance and muscle mass.
- Boosts Cognitive Function: Studies suggest that DHEA protects cognitive function, reducing the risk of mental decline and mood disorders.
- Promotes Healthy Skin: DHEA supplementation has been linked to healthier aging skin by supporting hormone-sensitive processes.
However, it is important to note that the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA) has prohibited the use of DHEA among athletes due to its implications for performance enhancement and doping violations.
Potential Side Effects
- Too Much Testosterone: High doses of DHEA may cause an increase in testosterone levels, leading to side effects such as hair loss, oily skin, and increased body fat.
- Mood Swings: Excessive DHEA intake may also trigger mood swings or exacerbate bipolar disorder and other mental health conditions.
- Hormone-Sensitive Cancers: People with a history of hormone-sensitive conditions, such as prostate or breast cancer, should consult a healthcare provider before taking DHEA.
DHEA and Women's Health
DHEA plays a crucial role in women's health, particularly in the regulation of female sex hormones. As women age, their DHEA levels naturally decline, which can lead to a range of symptoms, including decreased libido, vaginal dryness, and mood changes. For postmenopausal women, taking DHEA supplements can be a game-changer, helping to alleviate these symptoms and improve overall quality of life.
Research has shown that DHEA supplementation can positively impact bone density, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures. This is particularly beneficial for postmenopausal women who are at a higher risk of bone loss. Additionally, DHEA has been found to enhance muscle strength and body composition, especially in women with adrenal insufficiency.
However, it's essential to be aware of the potential risks associated with taking DHEA supplements. Women with a history of hormone-sensitive cancers, such as breast, ovarian, or uterine cancer, should consult with their healthcare provider before starting DHEA supplementation. This precaution is crucial to avoid any adverse effects related to hormone-sensitive conditions.
Boosting DHEA Levels Naturally
While DHEA supplements can effectively boost DHEA levels, there are also several natural ways to enhance your body's production of this vital hormone. Here are some tips to help you increase DHEA levels naturally:
- Exercise Regularly: Engaging in regular physical activity, particularly weight-bearing exercises, can stimulate the adrenal glands to produce more DHEA. Aim for a mix of cardio and strength training exercises to maximize benefits.
- Get Enough Sleep: Adequate sleep is essential for hormone regulation, including DHEA production. Strive for 7-8 hours of quality sleep each night to support your adrenal glands.
- Reduce Stress: Chronic stress can disrupt hormone balance, including DHEA production. Incorporate stress-reducing activities into your routine, such as yoga, meditation, or deep breathing exercises, to help maintain optimal DHEA levels.
- Eat a Balanced Diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can support adrenal function and DHEA production. Focus on nutrient-dense foods to nourish your body and promote hormone balance.
- Consider Adaptogenic Herbs: Herbs like Ashwagandha, Rhodiola, and ginseng are known for their ability to support adrenal function and may help increase DHEA production. Consult with a healthcare provider before adding these herbs to your regimen.
- Get Enough Vitamin D: Vitamin D is crucial for hormone regulation, including DHEA production. Spend time outdoors to get natural sunlight, take vitamin D supplements, or consume vitamin D-rich foods like fatty fish, egg yolks, and fortified dairy products.
Remember, it's always best to consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new supplements or making significant changes to your lifestyle. By taking a holistic approach, you can support your body's natural DHEA production and enjoy the benefits of balanced hormone levels.
FAQs
What does DHEA do for postmenopausal women?
DHEA supports the production of female sex hormones, such as estrogen, which can help alleviate menopausal symptoms like vaginal dryness and mood swings in older women.
Can DHEA supplements improve sexual function?
Yes, DHEA supplements have been shown to improve sexual function by boosting libido and supporting hormone balance in both men and women.
How much DHEA should I take?
It depends on your health needs and goals. Most supplements offer doses ranging from 5mg to 50mg. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice based on your DHEA levels and medical conditions.
Are DHEA supplements safe for elderly adults?
DHEA supplementation is often recommended for older adults with low levels of DHEA to improve physical performance, bone density, and cognitive function. However, elderly adults should consult a healthcare provider before starting DHEA.
Can DHEA help with weight loss?
DHEA may aid in weight loss by promoting fat metabolism, especially in overweight adults. However, more research is needed to confirm its effectiveness for weight management.
Conclusion
DHEA supplements offer a range of benefits, from hormone balance to improved physical and cognitive performance. Whether you're looking to boost your energy levels, support aging skin, or improve muscle mass, choosing the right DHEA supplement is crucial. With the help of this guide, you can find the best product to meet your individual needs. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting any new dietary supplement regime.
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