Why is DHEA a banned substance?

Why is DHEA a banned substance?

As oral DHEA administration can lead to dose-dependent increases in circulating androgens, which may reach high supraphysiologic levels in women, it has been included in the list of prohibited substances by the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA).

What is DHEA 5mg?

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a steroid hormone precursor, which helps maintain healthy hormone levels and helps support the stress response system. DHEA functions as the counterpart to the stress hormone cortisol. Maintaining healthy DHEA levels is crucial for balancing the catabolic effects of cortisol.

Can you lose weight with DHEA?

How Much Is Usually Taken by Dieters? One double-blind trial found 100 mg per day of DHEA was effective for decreasing body fat in older men,1 and another double-blind trial found 1,600 mg per day decreased body fat and increased muscle mass in younger men.

What does DHEA do for a woman?

A number of studies have found that DHEA supplements may help people with depression, obesity, lupus, and adrenal insufficiency. DHEA may also improve skin in older people and help treat osteoporosis, vaginal atrophy, erectile dysfunction, and some psychological conditions.

When should I take DHEA?

The adrenal gland makes lots of DHEA in the early (pre-dawn) morning, and production drops dramatically throughout the day. Most doctors recommend taking DHEA first thing in the morning upon awakening to act in concert with this natural circadian (daily) pattern.

What are DHEA side effects?

Most side effects are mild, like headache, fatigue, insomnia, and congestion. Because DHEA affects hormone levels, it can cause other symptoms. Women may have abnormal periods, acne, or mood changes. They might also take on masculine characteristics, such as facial hair or a deeper voice.

Where to buy DHEA?

The DHEA found in dietary supplements is a synthetic form of the hormone, produced from diosgenin, a substance found in soy and wild yams. Although many soy and wild yam products are marketed as natural sources of DHEA, the National Institutes of Health warn that the body can’t convert wild yam compounds into DHEA on its own. 1 

Do you need DHEA?

For young, healthy individuals, taking DHEA is probably not necessary. This hormone is produced naturally in the body, and more of it is not necessarily better. However, supplementing with DHEA may benefit some individuals, specifically older adults and those with certain adrenal, sexual or fertility problems.

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