DHEA

Definition

DHEA, or dehydroepiandrosterone, is a steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands that serves as a precursor to both male and female sex hormones. It plays a crucial role in the endocrine system by influencing various physiological processes, including metabolism, immune function, and aging. DHEA levels peak in early adulthood and gradually decline with age, impacting hormone balance and overall health.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. DHEA is often referred to as the 'mother hormone' because it can be converted into both testosterone and estrogen in the body.
2. Research suggests that DHEA may have potential benefits for improving mood, enhancing immune function, and promoting bone density.
3. DHEA levels are highest around the age of 20 and start to decline after that, with significant decreases occurring by age 40.
4. Supplementation with DHEA is sometimes used to combat age-related decline in hormone levels, but its effectiveness and safety are still debated among experts.
5. Low levels of DHEA have been associated with conditions like depression, chronic fatigue syndrome, and osteoporosis.

Review Questions

• How does DHEA influence the hormonal balance in both males and females throughout different life stages?
  • DHEA serves as a precursor to sex hormones such as testosterone and estrogen, making it vital for maintaining hormonal balance in both males and females. During early adulthood, optimal DHEA levels support the production of these hormones, contributing to energy levels, mood stability, and reproductive health. As individuals age and DHEA levels decline, they may experience hormonal imbalances that can lead to various health issues.
• Evaluate the potential benefits and risks of DHEA supplementation in older adults.
  • DHEA supplementation in older adults may provide benefits such as improved mood, increased bone density, and enhanced immune function. However, potential risks include hormonal imbalances leading to acne, hair loss, or increased aggression. Additionally, long-term effects of supplementation are still unclear, warranting caution and medical consultation before use. Balancing these benefits and risks is essential for making informed decisions about supplementation.
• Synthesize how the declining levels of DHEA relate to broader changes in health outcomes as individuals age.
  • The decline of DHEA levels with age is linked to various health outcomes that reflect changes in overall physiological function. As DHEA decreases, individuals may experience increased susceptibility to chronic conditions like depression and osteoporosis due to reduced hormone availability. This decline can also affect metabolic processes, leading to weight gain or reduced energy levels. Understanding the connection between declining DHEA levels and health outcomes emphasizes the importance of monitoring hormonal health throughout aging.

Related terms

Adrenal Glands:

Small glands located on top of each kidney that produce hormones like cortisol, adrenaline, and DHEA, essential for stress response and metabolism.

Hormones:

Chemical messengers produced by endocrine glands that regulate various functions in the body, including growth, metabolism, and reproduction.

Androgens: A group of hormones that play a role in male traits and reproductive activity; DHEA is considered a weak androgen.