DHEA will be our topic for this month as this is a hormone precursor. What this means is that it is transformed by cell-specific local conversion to androgens or estrogens. Although it favors the androgen (testosterone) pathway it can affect either hormone. As with other hormones, DHEA declines with age. This begins in the late 20’s and continues to do so resulting in levels one quarter of what we had when we were younger. DHEA is made primarily by the adrenal glands but a small amount is made by the brain and skin. DHEA has many functions in the body including sexual function, promoting bone growth and brain function, increasing lean body mass, promoting weight loss, decreasing cholesterol, increasing our sense of well-being and helping us cope with stress. DHEA has also been shown to have a protective effect against cancer, diabetes, heart disease and autoimmune disease.
Many practitioners will recommend taking DHEA if you have decreased adrenal function. This is best determined by testing cortisol levels using a saliva test you can do yourself at home. The kits are available at many offices and at our pharmacy. The test involves a sample of saliva taken in the early morning, noon time, evening, and midnight. The last one is one of the most important indicators as high cortisol late in the day or during the night can cause insomnia.
DHEA is available over-the-counter as a tablet or it can be compounded. If your practitioner determines you would benefit from supplementing DHEA, they will most often prescribe a compounded form in order to better adjust the dosing to your needs. The most common form used is sublingual drops that are given under the tongue. DHEA can also be compounded into vaginal suppositories that have been very helpful for many patients. You may want to consider this form if you have tried hormone replacement therapy and it did not agree with you or you are not comfortable taking hormone replacement. This form can help with vaginal dryness, increased libido (remember it favors the testosterone pathway) and many of the other benefits listed above. This may seem like a more “natural” way for some people to replace hormones because it allows the body to convert the DHEA into the hormones it needs.
Consider talking to your practitioner or calling us for help if you feel you may benefit from DHEA. As always, you are welcome to call me for guidance and direction.
Wishing you good health and peace.
Brenda
About the Author
Brenda Houdlette
