DHEA is a steroid hormone produced in the body by the adrenal glands. Hormones are small powerful molecules that influence every cell in the body and are necessary for proper health and even life itself. Health disorders can occur when the ratio of hormones becomes out of balance. Therapeutic use has proven hormones to be among the most effective biological agents in treating an endless number of adversities in the body.

Until recently, the role of DHEA in the body was uncertain. Thought to be nothing more than a "buffer hormone", DHEA was considered to serve only in the production of other hormones. Scientists now have learned that body cells have DHEA receptors meaning the hormone has a specific role in the body. While it is similar in structure to testosterone, progesterone and estrogen, DHEA has an endless number of functions in the biological spectrum.

The latest research dedicated to DHEA suggests the hormone may be a great benefit in treating an array of health problems while relatively free of side effects. The therapeutic value of DHEA is being applied to the preventative measures and treatment for conditions such as cardiovascular disease, high cholesterol, diabetes, obesity, cancer, Alzheimer's disease, immune disorders and chronic fatigue. The hormone is also being explored for potential benefits in the aging process.

Of particular interest is the effect of DHEA on the burning of fat in the body. Laboratory use suggests that DHEA may be the only substance, which could actually reduce the level of fat in the body without a change in the diet. DHEA appears to have the ability to convert consumed calories into heat rather than allowing them to be stored as fat. While it burns the fat, DHEA may also promote lean muscle tissue.

The role of DHEA may also be of interest to athletes. Research has shown a direct connection between the level of DHEA and other hormones such as testosterone in the body. It appears that as DHEA levels are increased in the body, the production of other hormones is elevated.

DHEA levels in the body peak at around age 20 and begin to drop in most individuals from that point on. It is estimated that by age 80, DHEA levels drop by approximately 95%. DHEA is the only hormone to decline in linear fashion in both sexes. Studies suggest that as DHEA levels drop, medical problems increase. For this reason, many scientists feel DHEA is the most dominant hormone in the body. Despite a lack of knowledge in the past, increased research on DHEA may prove invaluable in the search of cures for the ills that plague mankind
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

References:

http://www.biopsychiatry.com/dhea/
http://www.lef.org/newshop/items/item00335.html?source=HomeTop12DHEA
http://www.health-marketplace.com/DHEA.htm
 

Page by: Nick Folts