THE BEECHMONT CREST GUIDE TO MEDICINAL HERBS AND NUTRACEUTICALS
DEHYDROEPIANDROSTONE
Dehydroepiandrostone (DHEA) is a steroid. DHEA is produced by the body in the adrenal glands. It is then converted into androgen and estrogen, which are male and female sex hormones.
Benefits
DHEA can be extracted from the Mexican yam and packaged as a supplement. DHEA supplements are taken to increase alertness, energy, and feelings of well-being. DHEA supplements may also reduce levels of cholesterol and body fat.
DHEA is related to testosterone, so supplements are often taken by athletes in training. DHEA is thought to increase muscle mass when combined with weight training.
Finally, some researchers claim that DHEA can help people with Alzheimer’s disease to function more effectively. But these claims have not been clinically proven.
Side Effects
DHEA can potentially result in reverse sex characteristics, like male breast enlargement. It is also claimed to contribute to prostate cancer. However, these claims have not been proven.
The supplement has also been linked to kidney dysfunction.