In 1981, the Life Extension Foundation introduced DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) to its members through an article that described the multiple benefits that this hormone might produce. However, the general public did not learn about DHEA until 1996, when the benefits of DHEA were touted by the news media and in several popular books. DHEA became credible to the medical establishment when the New York Academy of Sciences published a book entitled DHEA and Aging. This book provided scientific validation for the many life extending effects of DHEA.

It has been shown that the hormone DHEA often declines 40.8-72.8% by age 70 or later, leading to hormonal imbalances that can affect one’s quality of life.1 Peak blood levels of DHEA occur at approximately age 25, decreasing progressively thereafter.1 Thus, scientists have been looking at ways of restoring DHEA to youthful levels, and are now discovering mechanisms by which this hormone protects against age-related decline.

Since 1981, several hundred studies have been published on DHEA’s possible benefits. One study investigated immune functions and DHEA using rats as test subjects. The scientists showed that DHEA administration to rats supports specific immune function known to be lacking in the elderly.2*

Another study focused on the various benefits of DHEA supplementation, and noted that DHEA’s protective effect could be of benefit to the normal aging brain.3* Some studies have reported DHEA may improve mood and alleviate melancholy. In fact, as highlighted in two studies, participants have reported that they feel better when taking DHEA.4,5*

In still another investigative study doctors noted that DHEA is one factor that determines lumbar spine density in aging men.6* In women, it has been shown that DHEA helps to protect bone mineral density. DHEA’s role in supporting a healthy circulatory system and joint/bone health was also highlighted in the Journal of the Medical Association of Thailand.7*

DHEA precautions for men
Before attempting to restore DHEA to youthful levels, men should know their serum PSA (prostate specific antigen) level and have passed a digital rectal exam. Men with prostate cancer or severe benign prostate disease are advised to avoid DHEA since it can be converted into testosterone (and estrogen). Therefore, men are advised to have a PSA and digital rectal exam before initiating DHEA to rule out existing prostate disease.

When taking DHEA we also recommend taking the following other nutrients:

Women should consider estrogen and testosterone testing when they take their DHEA blood test in order to evaluate DHEA’s effect on their blood levels of these hormones.

Women who have been diagnosed with an estrogen-dependent cancer should consult their physicians before beginning the DHEA restoration process. Women taking DHEA should refer to the Female Hormone Restoration chapter in the Foundation’s Disease Prevention and Treatment book for information about restoring youthful hormone balance.

DHEA supplementation
The Life Extension Buyers Club offers DHEA supplements that conform to the following specifications:

• 99.9% purity (European-derived DHEA)
• Micronized (for maximum absorption and utilization)
• Manufactured under GMP (Good Manufacturing Practice) conditions