DHEA Benefits and Side Effects for Men & Women

If you’re serious about boosting your testosterone levels, then you’ve probably already heard the phrase ‘DHEA’ on the grapevine. But what is DHEA and what are its benefits? What are the side effects of DHEA for a man? How about for a woman?

More importantly, is this just another steroid hormone that men can use, or can women for once experience the same perks? In this post, our mission is to uncover the truth behind the DHEA supplement, and see what all the fuss is about.

What is DHEA?

DHEA, DHEA sulfate or dyhroepiandrosterone (if you want to get technical) is a steroid hormone that is naturally produced by your adrenal glands, gonads and brain. It acts as a precursor to estrogen and testosterone, as it is converted by your body into these important two key hormones.

Now, when you hit your 30s, these DHEA levels tend to drop. And as you can guess – your testosterone and estrogen levels will drop with it.

But here is the kicker. Alongside your testosterone… your sexual drive, energy, metabolism, stamina… hell even elements of your health will all start to diminish too!

Knowing this, it is little wonder why so many people choose to take DHEA supplements as a form of treatment or alternative remedy. On the surface, it has all the appearances of being the perfect solution to your health and testosterone problems.

Why do people take DHEA? What is DHEA good for?

Low DHEA levels is something you can be tested for, so for a lot of people they choose to take DHEA simply because they want to boost their natural testosterone and estrogen production.

However, for others they use it to combat the health issues that can arise from low DHEA. For instance, low DHEA has been linked to aging, anorexia, breast cancer, heart and kidney disease, type 2 diabetes and even HIV.

Now, we’re a bit dubious of the HIV claim – coz yeah, a lot of the DHEA claims can’t be substantiated – however, given that low testosterone levels can affect your immunity, there may be something to this one. We can’t be sure.

But that is not all…

Alongside being used to reverse the signs of aging (by improving skin tone); DHEA supplements are also commonly used as an alternative remedy for many of the health issues that can arise from low testosterone and estrogen. The most common include: immunity, menopause, erectile dysfunction, depression, obesity, lupus, osteoporosis, hormone imbalances, brain function and muscle strength.

Before you get excited and jump on the bandwagon, we advise you to be cautious…

A lot of the “studies” surrounding DHEA supplements are pretty hit and miss – hell many even contradict themselves with the claims they make – so remember to take them with a pinch of salt, and don’t put all your hopes on them until you have the full facts. 

What are different forms of DHEA?

Whilst our bodies naturally produce DHEA; what you find in DHEA supplements is a synthetic version of the hormone which is produced from disogenin. This is a substance found in your everyday soy and wild yams.

Now before you start stuffing your face with soy and wild yams, it is important to know that our bodies cannot convert yam compounds into DHEA on its own. We need a little help, which is where the supplements come in.

DHEA supplements are available in several forms, each catering to different preferences and needs. These include:

• Capsules and Tablets: The most common form, usually taken once a day.
• Tinctures and Liquids: For those who prefer not to swallow pills.
• Powders: Can be mixed with drinks for easy consumption.
• Topical Creams: Applied directly to the skin daily for absorption.

For best results, always refer to the manufacturer's instructions on how to take or apply the product and how often to use it.

There is also DHEA sulfate or DHEA-S to consider – although there are no studies or data to support its use within supplements, so be wary if you see it in the ingredients list.

DHEA-sulfate is a sulfate derivative of DHEA which your body can use by turning it into androgen hormones. It is believed it can do the same job of boosting testosterone levels, but yet again there is no proof to this theory.

What is DHEA used for?

DHEA is most commonly used as a treatment/preventative measure to deal with the numerous health issues that can arise from low testosterone and estrogen levels.

The biggest names you’ll find on the list include: Alzheimer’s disease, chronic fatigue syndrome, depression, erectile dysfunction, fibromyalgia, lupus, menopausal symptoms, metabolic syndrome, multiple sclerosis, and Parkinson’s disease.

Yet the benefits of DHEA are not just restricted to illnesses. It is also believed to improve sports performance, your libido, and weight loss, as well as boost your immune system. More notably, its testosterone-boosting capabilities have been linked to increased muscle mass and fat reduction.

And for us guys, this is probably one of the biggest draws (aside from erectile dysfunction).

Testosterone influences so many elements of our body – our ability to build muscle, fight fat, and keep it up in the sack – that anything that can help is instantly going to appeal.

Can DHEA help treat osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis, a condition leading to thin and fragile bones, is often associated with low DHEA levels, which naturally decline with age. Postmenopausal women are particularly susceptible due to decreasing estrogen levels. In theory, DHEA could help by boosting estrogen and potentially minimizing osteoporosis risks.

Research presents a mixed bag. A review found that DHEA might enhance bone density in females, especially at higher doses. However, not all participants experienced improvements, indicating variability in outcomes. This underscores the need for further research to establish DHEA's efficacy in treating osteoporosis conclusively.

What about the science?

Here is where things get incredibly tricky. The problem is – of the few DHEA studies that exist – the majority of them seem to contradict themselves.

For example, a study on DHEA and osteoporosis in 2015 showed that men with higher levels of DHEA in their bloodstream had higher bone mineral density than those with low DHEA. However, a 2008 study on DHEA supplements showed that whilst they helped women achieve better bone mineral density, these supplements failed to enhance bone health in men. In other words, only our bodies' natural DHEA can help with bone density. Not the synthetic stuff in supplements (well, in men’s bodies anyway).

But see what we mean? The DHEA benefits for men and women seem to contradict themselves.

While the research landscape is still evolving, the potential of DHEA in addressing osteoporosis remains an area of interest, especially as we look for more definitive answers.

What are DHEA health benefits?

Besides the obvious boost DHEA can give to your testosterone and estrogen levels, the biggest health benefits DHEA is good for, consist of:

• Increased hormone levels – this is especially helpful to women during the menopause.
  
  
• Alleviated sexual/erectile dysfunction.
  
  
• Improved brain function – by stimulating neurons and inhibiting cortisol, this can improve your memory, visual awareness and reduce symptoms of Alzheimer’s. It is also good for enhancing the emotional regulation of your memory by healing the connection between the amygdala and hippocampus.
  
  
• Protection against depression – due to DHEA having anti-cortisol activity. 

  While DHEA supplements aren't a proven treatment for depression, there's intriguing evidence linking DHEA levels to depressive symptoms. Individuals with severe depression often have lower DHEA levels compared to those with mild depression.

  Research on DHEA's effectiveness in alleviating depression symptoms shows mixed results. Some studies indicate that DHEA can improve symptoms more effectively than a placebo. However, it's important to note that the evidence isn't strong enough to recommend DHEA as a standard treatment for depression, primarily due to the low quality of some studies.

  In summary, while DHEA's anti-cortisol properties suggest potential benefits, more robust research is needed to solidify its role in managing depressive symptoms.

• Increased pregnancy and fertility.
  
  
• Reductions in heart disease and hypertension (which can help keep your heart in tip top condition) – by reducing high blood pressure and lowering your cholesterol.
  
  
• Protection against inflammation – DHEA can stop inflammation, balance your immune responses (from bowel disease) and prevent neuron degeneration. It can also reduce inflammation in the lungs and hyperreactivity in your airways, which is useful if you’ve got asthma.
  
  
• Prevention of osteoporosis (although this seems to apply more to women than us guys).
  
  
• Increased REM sleep (and who can say no to more sleep?).
  
  
• Obesity and weight loss – this perk only seems to benefit obese guys (sorry ladies) as it can help reduce blood insulin levels, lower cholesterol and boost energy levels. Now for women it appears to have the opposite effect and can help those dealing with anorexia. In a study, it helped them to gain weight and benefit from better moods.
  
  
• Lower insulin resistance – combined with exercise, DHEA can help lower insulin resistance and increase weight loss.
  
  
• Bone health – DHEA offers the combo of increasing bone formation whilst inhibiting bone cell death. This can help to raise your bone volume and mineral density.
  
  
• Prevention of muscle dystrophy – this is achieved by protecting you against cell oxidation and cell death. It also increases the effects of antioxidants, helping to stop muscle atrophy.
  
  
• Helps Lupus – DHEA can provide a short-term benefit as it can help lessen the symptoms and lower cholesterol.

What are DHEA side effects and dangers?

Arguably one of the funniest things about DHEA is that whilst very few of their studies seem to agree on the long-term DHEA benefits for men and women; its side effects are pretty well known.

Yes it can increase testosterone, but it can also cause these DHEA side effects:

• Acne and oily skin
• Headaches
• Fatigue
• Hair loss
• Congestion
• Abnormal periods
• Mood swings
• Insomnia
• High blood pressure
• Reduced good cholesterol
• Women may begin to take on masculine characteristics – yep, you guessed it: facial hair and deeper voices.
• Men might develop breast tissue – to put in more bluntly, you might get moobs.
• Increase the risk of some cancers that are influenced by hormones e.g. breast, ovaries and prostate (to name a few).
• Abdominal pain
• Breast tenderness
• Heart palpitations and irregular/rapid heart beats
• Testicle shrinkage (you read it correctly – smaller balls)
• Increased aggression and urinary urgency
• Itchiness
• Weight gain (primarily around your gut)
• Psychotic disorders – high levels of DHEA can harm those at risk or already suffering from psychological disorders.
• Inhibit your body’s natural ability to make DHEA (ummm… a bit counterproductive, wouldn’t you agree?)
• Interferes with the effectiveness of various medications: antipsychotic drugs, HIV medication, estrogen and oral contraceptives, insulin, testosterone and cancer medications.
• Increases addiction – by responding to emotional and behavioral circumstances, it can trigger substance abuse.

Ironically, there is also concern that DHEA supplements can harm those with depression, bipolar disorders, diabetes, heart disease and liver disease. That’s right! Many of the conditions it claims to help can also be hindered by the very same supplement if they are taken in high dosages.

In fact, DHEA dosage is the biggest trigger for these problems. Not only should it be taken under the supervision of healthcare provider – who can monitor your hormone levels – high dosages should not be taken over an extended period of time, as it could cause thyroid problems, high cholesterol and much more.

Much of these DHEA side effects stem from the fact that these supplements haven’t been tested for safety and are largely unregulated. Meaning – there is no one controlling their quality, ingredients and dosage levels.

Is DHEA Safe for Long-Term Use, and Who Should Avoid It?

When considering DHEA supplements, many people wonder about their safety over extended periods. Current studies suggest that DHEA is generally safe for most adults if used in the short term. However, the long-term safety remains uncertain due to a lack of comprehensive research.

Who Should Avoid DHEA?

Certain groups should steer clear of DHEA supplements due to potential health risks. These include:

• Children, Pregnant, and Breastfeeding Individuals: Due to insufficient research and its effects on hormone levels, DHEA is not recommended for children or those who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

• Individuals with Hormonal Disorders: Those with conditions like endometriosis or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) should avoid DHEA since it can alter estrogen and testosterone levels.

• Cancer Patients: People with estrogen-sensitive cancers (such as breast, uterine, or ovarian cancer) and prostate cancer may experience adverse effects from DHEA owing to its potential to increase certain hormone levels.

• People with Blood or Mood Conditions: DHEA can impact how the body processes insulin and may slow blood clotting, posing risks to individuals with diabetes or blood clot-related disorders. Furthermore, it may also worsen mood disorder symptoms.

• Liver Disease and Cholesterol Concerns: There is evidence that DHEA might lower HDL (the "good" cholesterol) and exacerbate liver conditions.

Discuss with a Healthcare Provider

Before starting DHEA supplements, it is crucial to consult healthcare professionals to assess the potential risks based on your personal health profile. They can provide tailored advice to determine if DHEA is a suitable option for you.

Recommended Dosage for DHEA Supplements

Although there's no universally recommended dose for DHEA supplements, research indicates that consuming up to 50 milligrams (mg) of oral DHEA each day is generally considered safe for short-term use. For topical applications, DHEA creams can be used safely on a daily basis for as long as a year.

Determining Your Ideal Dosage

Since individual needs can vary, it’s wise to consult with a healthcare professional. They can help tailor the dosage to ensure it's both safe and effective for your specific situation. Always prioritize professional guidance to align with your health goals and needs.

DHEA for men – possible uses and benefits?

Easily the biggest reason men use DHEA is because of its ability to boost declining testosterone levels as we age, and the many negative effects that arise from this fall.

And there is some merit to the idea. Increase your natural testosterone levels and you can enjoy the following DHEA benefits: stronger immunity; improved mood and memory; decreased fat mass and weight loss; bolstered libido, stamina and performance (both in the sack and on the field – there’ll be nothing ‘limp’ about you); increased sperm production, and best of all improved erectile dysfunction, muscle mass and bone density (depending on the study you read).

DHEA for women – possible uses and benefits?

A lot of the DHEA for women benefits are the same as the guys. From slowing down aging to bolstering immunity, to improving memory to weight loss; there are many similarities between each group so we won’t go into detail as you’ve already read it before.

The key ones to remember are: improved sexual drive, mental health (depression, anxiety, OCD etc.), bone density and relief from menopausal symptoms (when taken in small doses).

Now at this point, we want to remind you about the benefits we discussed earlier in the post. Whilst some studies do claim that DHEA can help men and women to lose weight, others point to opposite. In fact, in one study DHEA helped men to lose weight, whilst for women with anorexia, it helped them to gain weight. Confusing, no?

Similarly, you might remember us talking about how DHEA for women can help with fertility and pregnancy. If this is something that is genuinely worrying you, then here’s the science:

Ovarian reserve links to your ovaries' capacity to produce a healthy egg to be fertilized. Now if you’re struggling to get pregnant and haven’t responded well to IVF, the belief is DHEA can help to increase your chances of getting pregnant and having a higher ovarian reserve.

Recent studies have shed light on this potential benefit. Research involving a group of 77 women preparing for in-vitro fertilization (IVF) revealed that those who took DHEA supplements two months prior to the procedure had better pregnancy outcomes. Notably, this effect was observed in women over the age of 38, highlighting DHEA's potential role in enhancing fertility in older women.

Furthermore, a review of existing studies found that DHEA supplements appeared to improve birth rates among women who had previously unsuccessful IVF treatments. While these findings are promising, it's important to note that most research has so far been limited to small groups, suggesting the need for further studies to confirm these results fully.

By understanding how DHEA may influence ovarian function, individuals facing infertility challenges can consider this supplement as a potential aid in their journey to conceive.

Sounds amazing, right? This is just another one of those theories that hasn’t been proven. So whilst in principal raising your estrogen and testosterone levels CAN help fertility; this theory has no backing, so please be cautious.

Where to Find DHEA Supplements and What to Look For

Where to Purchase: DHEA supplements are widely available both online and in physical stores. You can easily find them at health food stores, drugstores, and stores specializing in dietary supplements. The convenience of online shopping also provides a myriad of options at the click of a button.

What to Look For: When purchasing these supplements, it’s crucial to focus on quality and safety. The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) doesn't regulate dietary supplements as it does pharmaceuticals, so it's up to the manufacturers to ensure their products are both effective and safe. Here’s what you should consider:

• Third-Party Testing: Opt for products that have been tested by third-party organizations. These certifications can provide an additional layer of assurance. Look for seals from organizations such as ConsumerLabs, NSF International, or U.S. Pharmacopeia (USP).

• Quality Control: These certifications indicate that the supplement has been properly labeled, contains the ingredients it claims to, and is free from harmful levels of contaminants.

• Effectiveness and Safety Caution: While third-party testing can signal quality in ingredients and packaging, it can't guarantee the effectiveness or absolute safety of DHEA supplements for every individual. Always consider consulting with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement regimen.

Why Should Athletes Avoid DHEA Supplements?

Athletes often look for ways to enhance their performance, and DHEA supplements might seem tempting due to their potential for boosting testosterone levels. These supplements are frequently marketed with claims of increasing muscle mass and improving athletic output. However, these promises lack solid scientific backing, as there's insufficient evidence confirming that DHEA truly enhances athletic performance.

More crucially, athletes should steer clear of DHEA because of its status under the regulations of major sports organizations. Key entities such as the International Olympic Committee (IOC), the National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA), and the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) have outright banned DHEA use.

This prohibition means that any athlete found using DHEA in events regulated by these bodies faces the risk of disqualification. The potential impacts on their careers, along with the lack of proven performance benefits, make DHEA supplements an inadvisable choice for athletes.

Conclusion?

DHEA is one of those products which on the surface has the potential to be amazing, but when you delve deeper can be confusing and downright contradictory.

From studies inability to agree on their benefits, to the fact that it is not FDA approved (so suppliers don’t have to verify the quality of their ingredients); DHEA is something you should first approach with caution and next with the approval of a doctor.

Don’t get us wrong. There are many perks to DHEA, namely its ability to boost your natural testosterone and estrogen levels. Let them fall and you will see an impact to your mental and physical health!

But what about the dangers? What about the potential DHEA side effects?

Whilst a bit of oily skin and acne might be alright for some. If you’re one of the unlucky ones to develop the rest, then the cons easily outweigh the pros.

Personally, we would give it a miss. But if you’re seriously considering it, then our advice is: think before you do; consider the advantages and disadvantages of DHEA, and most importantly do your research. If, after all that you still want to try DHEA, remember to consult a professional and keep your dosage to a minimum.