What DHEA Does in the Body

DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is a hormone precursor made by the adrenal glands.
Your body uses it to create:

• Testosterone

• Estrogen

• Androstenedione

• Neurosteroids

Levels decline sharply with age (up to 80% reduction by age 70).

Potential Benefits of Micronized DHEA (General Effects)

1. Supports Mood and Well-Being

Studies show DHEA may help with:

• Mild depression

• Stress resilience

• Energy and sense of well-being
  DHEA boosts neurosteroids such as allopregnanolone, which influence mood and calmness.

2. Supports Healthy Libido

DHEA may improve sexual function in both men and women —especially postmenopausal women or people with adrenal insufficiency.

3. Improves Bone Density (long-term)

DHEA can modestly increase bone mineral density in older adults, especially women.

4. May Support Lean Muscle Mass

DHEA is not a strong anabolic hormone, but it may help:

• Reduce fat mass

• Improve lean mass

• Increase strength slightly in older adults

Effects vary based on conversion to downstream hormones.

5. Supports the Adrenal Hormone Pathway

People with low DHEA-S levels (from testing) may notice:

• Better energy

• Improved stress tolerance

• Improved recovery

• Feeling “more balanced”

6. Anti-Inflammatory & Immune-Modulating Effects

DHEA has been shown to:

• Reduce inflammatory cytokines (TNF-alpha, IL-6)

• Support immune function

• Protect cells from oxidative stress

7. May Improve Insulin Sensitivity

Some research shows DHEA may:

• Lower abdominal fat

• Improve glucose metabolism

• Reduce insulin resistance

This makes it interesting for metabolic health.