Do You Know Dehydroepiandrosterone DHEA? – A Scientific Interpretation of the Youth Hormone

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), also known as prasterone, is a "hormone precursor" naturally produced by the human body and one of the most abundant steroid hormones in the bloodstream. It plays a key role in our endocrine system and has become a research hotspot in fields such as health supplements, sports science, and skincare. This article uses plain language to explain DHEA's basics, its functions in the body, current research directions, and important considerations.

DHEA's "Identity Card"

DHEA is a steroid naturally synthesized by the zona reticularis of the adrenal glands, belonging to the "17-ketosteroid" family. Its core role is a "hormone precursor" – it can be converted into active sex hormones like testosterone and estrogen in different parts of the body. The secretion of DHEA in our bodies peaks around the ages of 20-30 and gradually declines with age, which is why it is often linked to the topic of "aging."

What Does DHEA Do in the Body?

"Hormone Mother" Role: DHEA is like a "hormone raw material warehouse" – it can be converted into different active hormones in various tissues (such as gonads, fat, and the brain). This "on-demand conversion" feature helps maintain local hormone balance without causing systemic hormone "overload."

Helping the Body "Manage Energy": Studies have found that DHEA may affect glucose and lipid metabolism, such as making the body more sensitive to insulin and regulating blood lipid levels. Some research also suggests it can improve the function of "energy factories" (mitochondria) in cells, helping us maintain energy levels. For example, Xiao Wang, a 35-year-old programmer, recently felt easily sleepy in the afternoon and found climbing stairs more strenuous than before. A doctor's examination revealed his DHEA level was slightly lower than that of his peers, and he was advised to adjust his schedule and diet for observation. Three months later, he reported a recovery in energy and improved work efficiency in the afternoon, which may be related to DHEA's regulatory role in energy metabolism.

Protecting the Brain and Cognition: DHEA and its metabolites can interact with neurotransmitters in the brain (such as GABA and glutamate), which may benefit cognitive function. Animal experiments have shown it can reduce oxidative damage in the brain and protect the health of nerve cells. For instance, Aunt Zhang, 65, has been worried about memory loss since retiring, sometimes forgetting items on her grocery list. After learning about the relationship between DHEA and cognitive function at a community health lecture, she began to坚持 regular exercise and puzzle games. Although she did not directly supplement DHEA, maintaining endocrine balance through a healthy lifestyle made her feel more clear-headed when remembering things half a year later.

Regulating Immunity: DHEA can "direct" the activity of immune cells (such as T cells and macrophages), helping the body maintain immune balance. When DHEA levels decline due to high stress or aging, immunity may also be affected.

What Applications Are Currently Being Studied?

Due to DHEA's wide-ranging functions in the body, it is being studied for potential value in many fields, mainly focusing on these directions:

Anti-Aging Research: Since DHEA declines with age, scientists want to know if supplementing it can alleviate aging-related issues such as muscle loss, osteoporosis, and decreased energy. Some clinical trials on the elderly have shown that appropriate supplementation may lead to slight improvements in physical function and quality of life.

Sports and Fitness: Researchers are focusing on DHEA's impact on exercise recovery and performance, such as whether it can speed up muscle synthesis and reduce post-exercise soreness. However, current research results on athletes are inconsistent, and the effect is related to dosage and individual physique.

Skincare: DHEA is related to skin health, such as affecting sebum secretion, collagen production, and antioxidant capacity. Topical DHEA skincare products are currently being studied to see if they can improve skin elasticity, reduce fine lines, or alleviate certain skin problems in postmenopausal women (such as vaginal atrophy).

Mood and Stress Regulation: DHEA can interact with the body's "stress axis" (hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis), so its impact on mood is also being studied. Some research suggests it may help improve mood and reduce stress, but more large-sample studies are needed to confirm this.

These Things Must Be Noted!

Although DHEA has promising research prospects, several key points must be remembered: 1. Regulations vary by country: DHEA has different "identities" in different countries – it is a dietary supplement in the United States and can be purchased by ordinary people; but in the EU, Canada and other places, it requires a doctor's prescription. Before using it, you must understand local regulations. 2. Dosage and safety are key: There is no "one-size-fits-all" optimal dosage. The appropriate amount varies depending on age, gender, and health status. Excessive supplementation may lead to hormone imbalance, abnormal liver function indicators and other problems. 3. Research is still ongoing: Many effects are found in preliminary studies with small sample sizes. More long-term, large-scale clinical trials are needed to confirm whether it is effective and safe. 4. These people should be cautious: People with hormone-sensitive diseases (such as breast cancer, prostate cancer), liver disease, or diabetes must consult a doctor before considering use and should not use it casually on their own.