If you read our DHEA
supplement information article, you'll know that DHEA is an
androgen, and is 2 steps from testosterone. DHEA converts into
Androstenedione and Androstenediol, and it can also convert into
estrogen.
Side Effects of DHEA and DHEA Danger
Although DHEA lacks long term research to document
its side effects, this doesn't mean it has none. Far from it.
Below is a quick list of possible DHEA side effects and DHEA "danger".
- Like any and all androgenic steroid, DHEA
can cause hair loss, especially in men. DHEA tends to increases
levels of DHT (dihydrotestosterone), along with testosterone,
and DHT is a main cause in hair loss.
- DHEA use can lead to acne problems, as most
of you probably know that testosterone can cause acne problem
among others.
- DHEA can lead to menstrual irregularities
in women. It can also accelerate facial hair growth, and deepen
voice.
- DHEA can convert to estrogen and this can
lead to unwanted "feminine" characteristics in men.
- Long term use of DHEA can increase risk for
breast cancer, ovary cancer, and prostate cancer.
- DHEA can also lead to prostate enlargement.
- Other DHEA side effects include irritability,
and restlessness
DHEA Benefits
Despite the possible side effects of DHEA, it's
not without benefits - otherwise, there wouldn't be a market for
DHEA. As our DHEA supplement
information article have mentioned, recent DHEA research have
little support for DHEA's effectiveness to increase lean body
mass and burn fat; however when used in older patients, it did
significantly improve their overall well being.
The major reason is that DHEA decreases with
age, and can decrease up to 90% when you get old. By supplementing
DHEA, older subjects experience a increase in the level of DHEA
leading to physical conditions.
Some DHEA benefits include:
- "Promote weight loss and muscle gain"
as claimed mainly by the manufacturers and distributors; however
very few case studies have shown this to be true - so be cautious
- "DHEA can also help increase metabolism"
- this claim also comes from the manufacturers. Again, there's
little evidence to prove this
- DHEA can lead to increase in libido and sex
drive since DHEA does stimulate increase in levels of sex hormones
- It can help improve your overall sense of
well-being
Recommended DHEA doses range from 50 to 100mg
per day. Most DHEA products contain either 50mg or 100mg of DHEA,
and you shouldn't take more than 100mg per day. Also, long term
use of DHEA is not recommended as it does effect your level of
hormones. Your best choice is to cycle DHEA like you would cycle
any other prohormone.
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