Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS)

Why is DHEAS important for your Healthspan?

‍DHEAS levels provide insight into adrenal gland function and overall hormonal balance. As DHEAS levels naturally decline with age, maintaining them within an appropriate range for one's age can support various physiological processes, including bone density, muscle mass, and aspects of mood and cognitive function. Significant imbalances in DHEAS, whether too high or too low, can indicate underlying adrenal or hormonal disorders that, if unaddressed, may impact long-term health and well-being.

‍What is DHEAS?

Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS) is a steroid hormone that is one of the most abundant hormones circulating in the human body. It is mainly produced by the adrenal glands, small glands located above the kidneys, with smaller amounts coming from the ovaries in women and testes in men. DHEAS is considered a precursor hormone because it can be converted by the body into more potent sex hormones, such as androgens (like testosterone) and estrogens. DHEAS itself has various roles in the body, including contributing to the development of secondary sexual characteristics, influencing metabolism, and acting as a neurosteroid in the brain. Unlike some other hormones, DHEAS levels are relatively stable throughout the day, making it a good indicator for long-term adrenal activity. Its levels naturally peak in early adulthood and then gradually decline with age.

‍How do we take action?

If DHEAS levels are found to be outside the typical range, one should consult with a healthcare provider to investigate potential underlying causes. Elevated levels might indicate conditions such as adrenal gland disorders or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), while very low levels could suggest adrenal insufficiency. Strategies may involve addressing any diagnosed underlying medical conditions. Lifestyle factors such as stress management, regular exercise, and a balanced diet can support overall adrenal health and hormone balance. For some individuals, and under medical guidance, DHEAS supplementation might be considered, though its broader benefits remain an area of ongoing research and require careful monitoring due to potential effects.

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‍Additional Sources

1. Rutkowski, K., Sowa, P., Rutkowska-Talipska, J., Kuryliszyn-Moskal, A., & Rutkowski, R. (2014). Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA): hypes and hopes. Drugs, 74(11), 1195–1207. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40265-014-0259-8

2. Khorram, O., Vu, L., & Yen, S. S. (1997). Activation of immune function by dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) in age-advanced men. The journals of gerontology. Series A, Biological sciences and medical sciences, 52(1), M1–M7. https://doi.org/10.1093/gerona/52a.1.m1

3. Rutkowski, K., Sowa, P., Rutkowska-Talipska, J., Kuryliszyn-Moskal, A., & Rutkowski, R. (2014). Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA): hypes and hopes. Drugs, 74(11), 1195–1207. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40265-014-0259-8

4. Weiss, E. P., Villareal, D. T., Fontana, L., Han, D. H., & Holloszy, J. O. (2011). Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) replacement decreases insulin resistance and lowers inflammatory cytokines in aging humans. Aging, 3(5), 533–542. https://doi.org/10.18632/aging.100327

5. Rutkowski, K., Sowa, P., Rutkowska-Talipska, J., Kuryliszyn-Moskal, A., & Rutkowski, R. (2014). Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA): hypes and hopes. Drugs, 74(11), 1195–1207. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40265-014-0259-8

6. Huppert, F. A., & Van Niekerk, J. K. (2001). Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) supplementation for cognitive function . The Cochrane database of systematic reviews, (2), CD000304. https://doi.org/10.1002/14651858.CD000304

7. Rutkowski, K., Sowa, P., Rutkowska-Talipska, J., Kuryliszyn-Moskal, A., & Rutkowski, R. (2014). Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA): hypes and hopes. Drugs, 74(11), 1195–1207. https://doi.org/10.1007/s40265-014-0259-8

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