DHEA is a hormone naturally produced by the kidneys, but it can be obtained from soy or yams to be used as a supplement, which can be used to delay aging, facilitate weight loss and prevent muscle loss, as it helps in the production of other sex hormones, like testosterone and estrogen.
DHEA reaches its maximum amount at the age of 20 and then has its concentration decreased over time. Thus, the doctor can recommend the use of DHEA supplement, the amount of which varies according to the purpose of use and the person's need.
DHEA supplements can be purchased at health food stores, conventional pharmacies and some supermarkets, in the form of capsules like 25, 50 or 100 mg from some brands like GNC, MRM, Natrol or Finest Nutrition, for example.
The price of the DHEA supplement varies according to the supplement dose, hormone concentration and quantity of capsules in the package, and can vary between R $ 80 and R $ 200.00.
What is it for
The DHEA supplement is indicated in the case of hormonal disorders, and is usually recommended by the doctor in order to keep hormone levels under control, mainly testosterone and estrogen. Thus, any function that depends on the level of estrogen or testosterone can be affected by the DHEA supplement. Thus, the supplement can be used to:
- Fight the signs of aging; Maintain muscle mass; Prevent hypertension, diabetes and osteoporosis; Increase libido; Avoid impotence.
In addition, DHEA can act by improving the immune system, controlling cholesterol levels and ensuring greater energy to carry out day-to-day activities.
How to take DHEA
The amount of the DHEA supplement should be determined by the doctor according to the person's purpose and need. In women, it may be recommended to use 25 to 50 mg of supplement, while in men 50 to 100 mg, however this amount may vary according to the brand of the supplement and concentration per capsule.
Contraindications and side effects
DHEA is a hormone, so it is important that it is used as directed by the doctor. The use of DHEA supplementation is not recommended for pregnant women, breastfeeding women and children, unless recommended by the general practitioner or endocrinologist.
The indiscriminate use of DHEA can greatly increase the levels of sex hormones in the body, which can lead to changes in the voice and menstrual cycle, hair loss and facial hair growth, in the case of women, and in the case of men, breast enlargement and sensitivity in the region, for example.
In addition, overuse of DHEA can result in insomnia, acne breakouts, abdominal pain, increased cholesterol and changes in heart rate.
