What does 1 DHEA do?
DHEA is both a natural hormone and popular supplement that can affect the levels of other hormones in your body. It has been studied for its potential to increase bone density, decrease body fat, improve sexual function and correct some hormonal problems.
What is a normal DHEA level for females?
In women, normal levels in 18- and 19-year-olds range from 145 to 395 micrograms per deciliter (mcg/dL), before declining. In your 20s, DHEAS levels range between 65 and 380 mcg. For 30-something women, normal levels range from 45 to 270 mcg/dL, with levels further dropping to 32 to 240 mcg/dL in your 40s.
What does low DHEA mean?
If your results show low levels of DHEAS, it may mean you have one of the following conditions: Addison disease. Addison disease is a disorder in which the adrenal glands are not able to make enough of certain hormones. Hypopituitarism, a condition in which the pituitary gland does not make enough pituitary hormones.
What are the benefits of DHEA?
A number of studies have found that DHEA supplements may help people with depression, obesity, lupus, and adrenal insufficiency. DHEA may also improve skin in older people and help treat osteoporosis, vaginal atrophy, erectile dysfunction, and some psychological conditions.
What causes low DHEA levels in females?
A decrease in DHEA sulfate may be due to: Adrenal gland disorders that produce lower than normal amounts of adrenal hormones, including adrenal insufficiency and Addison disease. The pituitary gland not producing normal amounts of its hormones (hypopituitarism) Taking glucocorticoid medicines.
Why is my DHEA so low?
If your DHEA level is low, it may mean that your adrenal glands are not making enough hormones. This can be because of damage to the adrenal gland or a diseased pituitary gland. The pituitary gland makes a hormone that stimulates the adrenal glands to do their job.
Is DHEA a testosterone?
DHEA, or dehydroepiandrosterone, is a hormone that’s produced by your body. Some of it is converted into the major male and female sex hormones testosterone and estrogen ( 1 ).
Does low DHEA cause weight gain?
Side Effects May increase the risk of developing prostate, breast, ovarian, uterine, or cervical cancer and malignant melanoma or other hormonally-affected cancers. Hormonal side effects can be significant, including acne, skin changes, excess hair or hair loss, increased sweating, and weight gain.
What causes very low DHEA?
A low level of DHEA-S might mean: A damaged adrenal gland. Addison’s disease, a rare condition that causes weak muscles, lack of energy, weight loss, and low blood pressure. Hypopituitarism, a rare hormonal disease that can lead to tiredness, low sex drive, infertility, weight loss, and short height in children.