DHEA is a natural steroid and precursor hormone produced by the adrenal glands, which are located above the kidneys. It naturally begins to decline after age 30.
Your adrenal glands also produce the stress hormones cortisol and adrenaline. If you are producing too many stress hormones as a result of stress, your body can’t produce enough DHEA to support a healthy hormone balance. This will cause you to feel overwhelmed and depressed.
DHEA alone can’t fix adrenal imbalance. You can improve DHEA levels naturally by:
- Maintaining a BMI of 19-25
- Getting adequate rest
- Getting exposure to sunlight
- Exercising regularly (including sexual activity)
- Fostering more down-time in your life.
Saliva profiles can be used to test DHEA and cortisol levels.
If you choose to take DHEA supplements, you should start off with as little as 1-5 mg under the tongue 2 times a day. Do not exceed 25 mg a day.
Use only pharmaceutical grade DHEA compounded by a reputable pharmacy. Liquid sublingual drops are preferable to tablets.
Regular tests should be done to determine how the DHEA is being metabolized.
Long-term use or high doses may raise the risk of breast cancer.
Always seek the counsel and advice of your doctor before beginning DHEA.
Would you like to start using natural or complementary therapies to help with menopause? Contact me today for your FREE Discovery Session!
Pick, M. (2016, May 7). DHEA and Adrenal Imbalance. Retrieved from Women to Women: https://www.womentowomen.com/adrenal-health-2/dhea-and-adrenal-imbalance/
Vitamins and Supplements Lifestyle Guide. (2016, April 29). Retrieved from WebMD: http://www.webmd.com/vitamins-and-supplements/lifestyle-guide-11/slideshow-menopause