The mythical search for the fountain of youth never ceases. The desire to have the physique of a bodybuilder is always there. Would it be nice if there are less stress and a happy mood each day? There are no miracle medicines, but one supplement may help in fighting fatigue, enhance mood, and minimize aging. Here, I highlight the information on the best DHEA supplements available and their amazing benefits from restoring hormonal balance to preventing stress and fatigue.
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What is DHEA?
DHEA is an abbreviation for dehydroepiandrosterone, a type of hormone produced by the adrenal or stress glands and the brain. DHEA is one of the most abundant circulating hormones in the human body. Its natural peak production in the body occurs in the middle 20s and sometimes gradually declines as the person mature. DHEA stimulates the production of sex hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, and testosterone.
DHEA supplements are usually made up of derivatives from wild yams and soy. There is a compound in the wild yams known as diosgenin. The diosgenin cannot be directly converted into DHEA in the body, so they need to have laboratory interventions to be produced as supplements. The claims that diosgenin is a "natural DHEA" is not valid but can convert into these supplements.
What Are the Uses of DHEA Supplements?
Indications for DHEA supplements:
- Restore hormonal balance and manage adrenal insufficiency
- Counteract fatigue, elevate mood, and prevent depression
- Increase bone density and prevent osteoporosis
- Help lower inflammation
- Improve insulin sensitivity
- Improve memory and to avoid dementia
- Fertility management in women with diminished ovarian reserve
- Enhance immune system especially for patients with HIV/AIDS
- Delay aging
- Weight loss and increase lean muscle mass
- Control bad cholesterol levels
- Manage sexual dysfunction and increase libidoCounteract auto-immune disorders such as lupus
DHEA supplements are sold over the counter, and no prescription is needed. However, before using DHEA supplements, healthcare professionals recommend performing a salivary cortisol-DHEA test to determine its necessity. More explanation on the DHEA-cortisol ratio below. The supplements are available in capsule, tablet, sublingual drop, chewing gum, and cream forms.
Reason for the Decrease in DHEA
The adrenal gland plays a vital role in stress management since they produce hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline. Cortisol or hydrocortisone regulates metabolism and helps in the reaction to stress. Now, you might be wondering what is the relation of cortisol to DHEA? Both have an essential ratio that plays a vital role in stress adaptation.
Cortisol and DHEA are antagonistic to a certain degree. Cortisol has a catabolic (tearing down) effect while DHEA is more of anabolic (building up). When there is prolonged stress, there is a higher amount of cortisol in the body, and the opposite happens to the DHEA level. Even if you eliminate it, there are instances when the cortisol-DHEA ratio does not return to its original levels.
When the cortisol level is increasingly disproportionate to the DHEA amount in the body, these are some possible effects:
- Decreased immune system since cortisol suppresses immune function
- Increase in blood sugar levels with the change in the insulin function
- High blood pressure caused by salt and water retention
- Osteoporosis since high levels of cortisol can cause breakdown of bones
- Poor memory since DHEA is an essential component of brain function and cognition
- Hormonal imbalance such as transference of progesterone into androgenic testosterone
These effects may not be all present in all, and the factors will still depend on the body constitution, environment, and lifestyle. Here are just examples where DHEA supplements are needed. Increasing the amount of DHEA to the previous average ratio might restore the balance between the two hormones.
Eliminating the source of stress is another solution to restore the optimal ratio. Moreover, this proves that DHEA not only decreases with age advancement but may also be attributed to the imbalance between cortisol and DHEA.
DHEA and Bodybuilding
One of the controversial issues on why there is an increased interest in using DHEA is for bodybuilding. There is a perception that weightlifters and bodybuilders take DHEA supplements to help reduce metabolism and fat deposits, build lean muscle mass, and strengthen the bone. Also, with its anabolic effect, it can be considered in the desired weight gain without the dreaded bulges and fat handles.
Possible Side Effects of DHEA
As with any medications and supplements, below are some potential side effects of DHEA. These supplements are not recommended for long-term intake. Long-term use of DHEA without prior consultation may lead to:
- Hair loss
- Gastric irritation
- Headache
- Irregular heartbeats
- High blood pressure
- Fatigue
- Insomnia
- Oily skin and acne
Pronounced side effects in women:
- Facial hair
- Deepening of the voice
- Change in menstrual cycle
As with any other medications, consult an expert health specialist before taking these supplements. These supplements should not be consumed by those under 18 years old, women who are pregnant and breastfeeding, and those under other steroid therapy.
Below is a video for more information on DHEA from Dr. Susan Marra.
Guidelines Used in the Selection of the Best DHEA Supplements
Below are the guidelines used in the selection of the best DHEA supplements to buy:
1. All Products Selected Are in the 50mg Dosage Form, Either Tablet or Capsule
The ideal consumption of DHEA is twice daily, each in a 25mg dose. The total 50mg form is believed to be adequate in treating adrenal insufficiency. Other diseases such as chronic fatigue syndrome and cancer may require higher doses of DHEA to magnify its effectiveness.
2. Quality of the Ingredients Used.
The supplements must be 100% DHEA (no fillers, additives, or artificial ingredients) and preferably plant-based. They must also be non-genetically modified organisms (GMO) and non-allergenic. Most of these DHEA supplements are derivatives from wild yams but are carefully processed to derive the desired by-products. The plant-based capsules are the best dosage forms.
3. Technique or Method Used in the Manufacture of the Supplements
The production of the supplements must be certified under the Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP) standards and preferably with US FDA supervision.
4. Effectiveness in Getting the Desired Results
It should have proven results and reported with minimal adverse reactions and side effects.
5. Economical Value
The price of every bottle of DHEA must be affordable with enough capsules or tablets to produce the desired results. A provision of the money-back guarantee when not satisfied is a plus.
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The Chosen Best DHEA Supplements
via amazon.com
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Each 50mg capsule of the Zhou Nutrition DHEA supplement contains a vegetarian formula without soy, fish, egg, milk, nuts, shellfish, gluten, and wheat. It has derivative properties of organic, non-GMO yams which can be readily absorbed by the body. It does not contain any preservatives and artificial ingredients.
The Zhou Nutrition DHEA supplement can be taken by both men and women to optimize mental sharpness, stable mood, increase energy levels, and delay aging. This supplement may prevent adrenal fatigue. When the adrenal glands are compromised, there is a decrease in the production of DHEA. The incident results in increased fatigue, lower sex drive, erectile dysfunction, and susceptibility to infections.
Other benefits are ease of menopausal symptoms and increase bone density. My experience when taking this supplement reduced some discomfort related to premenstrual syndrome (PMS).
The supplement comes in an easy to ingest capsule (100% plant-based composed of cellulose). This feature works best for me since I am vegan and sometimes have a hard time swallowing bigger pills. It had a 60-day money back guarantee and passed the strictest GMP standards under the supervision of the US FDA.
Pros
- 100% vegan form
- Non-GMO formula
- Easy to swallow capsules
- No artificial ingredients added
- Helps in mental sharpness
- Boost energy levels and mood
- Increases lean muscle mass and strength
- Delays aging
- Assists in managing symptoms of PMS
- 60-day money back guarantee
Cons
- May take several days before any noticeable changes can occur
via amazon.com
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This convenient once-a-day extra strength DHEA supplement helps boost DHEA levels and produce a youthful surge in energy. It can be used by men and women for increasing metabolism, weight loss, improve immunity, and build lean body mass. Relative to the weight loss effect, it can control the cravings for food, helping you avoid those snacks in between meals. Its non-GMO formula and all active ingredients are natural, non-drowsy, and non-habit forming.
The supplement claims to restore hormonal balance and DHEA levels, and for some, increase libido. The product may be significantly related to fertility since DHEA is believed to have an effect on women with diminished ovarian reserve. It may also help in managing menopausal symptoms such as hot flashes. Moreover, it has a beneficial impact on the skin possibly due to the boost in hormones.
Every DHEA bottle of Havasu goes through the careful testing of its raw materials including authenticity and exact concentration of the ingredients. Each 50mg capsule contains pure DHEA without additives or preservatives. It is manufactured in the US in a state-of-the-art manufacturing facility adhering to the current GMP.
Pros
- Extra-strength formulation
- Produce a feeling of youthful surge in energy
- Boost metabolism
- Non-drowsy and non-habit forming
- May control craving for food in between meals
- DHEA without additives
- Non-GMO formula
Cons
- Results observed after several days to two weeks
via amazon.com
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Each 50mg tablet of DHEA capsule is micronized for better absorption. The product does not contain wheat, gluten, yeast, soy, milk, corn, sodium, starch, sugar, artificial flavors, artificial coloring, and GMO ingredients. Its coating contains cellulose and is 100% plant-based and vegan formula. It is also easy to ingest since the capsule is slimmer compared to others. It is manufactured in the US under the guidelines of GMP and supervised by the FDA.
The supplement boosts the immune function, helps in mental clarity, increases bone density, support metabolism, and helps in producing lean muscle mass. It does not cause gastric irritation nor bloated discomfort. It helps restore peak DHEA levels which may decline during the process of aging. For patients 50 years old and above, it can boost energy and produces a more relaxing feeling.
Furthermore, it promotes the balance of the DHEA-cortisol ratio. There are instances where DHEA levels decline, and this supplement enhances the mood possibly due to the restoration of hormonal balance.
Pros
- 100% vegan and non-GMO
- Micronized form for better absorption
- Restores hormonal balance
- Boosts immunity and mental sharpness
- Helps in achieving lean muscle mass
- Easy to swallow capsule
Cons
- More expensive compared to the other supplements of the same dosage
via amazon.com
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Each bottle of Natrol contains 60 tablets of 50mg DHEA and 60mg of calcium. It is a non-GMO product and does not have wheat, milk, yeast, soy, egg, added sugar, artificial colors, and preservatives. It is 100% vegan formula, non-allergenic and non-habit forming. The product ensures high quality of ingredients and is tested for impurities by the high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) method.
It is best to take the tablet in the morning to feel the upsurge in energy and helps promote a healthy mood. The boost in stamina helps in motivating the individual to do a workout or exercise. For women undergoing menopause, it can assist in managing hot flashes and mood swings. Since the supplement has calcium, it may help in counteracting symptoms of osteoporosis.
Also, this supplement tries to maintain normal DHEA levels and perceived to help in delaying aging. It produces a brighter complexion possibly due to the support in hormonal balance. Its manufacture complies with the GMP under the supervision of the US FDA.
Pros
- 100% vegan and GMO-free
- Promote healthy mood
- Boost energy
- With added calcium for managing osteoporosis
- Helps in eliminating hot flashes
- Clearer skin
- Undergone HPLC process
Cons
- Dizziness
- Tablet form that may be difficult for some people to swallow
via amazon.com
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With Life Extension’s DHEA 50mg supplement, it can maintain hormonal balance, promote healthy vascular circulation, and boost immunity. Also, it increases lean muscle mass without the fatty deposits and increase in weight, improves mood, and may help in inducing libido. For women, it can help manage adrenal insufficiency, with increased positive attitude and energy.
Each capsule contains DHEA, microcrystalline cellulose, bovine gelatin, and silica. It is non-GMO and non-allergenic. It does not have gluten, egg, peanuts, wheat, artificial coloring and flavors. Also, the supplement does not contain trans fats, hydrogenated oils, sweeteners, preservatives or fillers.
Before taking Life Extension DHEA supplement, a regular blood test is recommended to determine the best dosage and for blood level monitoring. DHEA serum blood tests are recommended three to six weeks after the start of the supplement therapy to optimize individual dosing.
Pros
- Non-GMO
- Maintain hormonal balance
- Increased optimal blood circulation
- Boost immunity
- Increase lean muscle mass
- Improve mood and well-being
Cons
- Not 100% plant-based since it contains bovine gelatin
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Final Words on DHEA Supplements
DHEA is present in our bodies, and the amount varies based on personal body constitution, genetic predisposition, environment, and lifestyle. DHEA supplementation helps in promoting hormonal balance, prevent inflammation, enhances the mood, and might help minimize aging. The ideal dose for these supplements is 50mg daily through two increments of 25mg.
Among the observed DHEA supplements, Zhou Nutrition might have provided the best option. Its superior ingredients and adequate dosage in capsule form might be the optimal decision to take. No adverse reactions reported, non-habit forming, and non-allergenic. It is economically priced and passed the standards set under the GMP and supervision of the US FDA. It aids in boosting immunity, supports hormonal balance, helps in mood management, lessens fatigue, improves mental cognition, and aids in managing menopausal symptoms. Its formulation is pure DHEA and 100% plant-based.
I hope you were able to learn from this buyer's guide. You may leave feedback on the comment section. For any other health products that you want more information on, I will be more than glad to help you.
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