More About DHEA

Hormones Produced

There are two ways of producing a hormone: through hemi-synthesis (the most often-used method), and through total synthesis. Hemi-synthesis is performed by extracting diosgenin, a molecule of sapogenin steroids from a vegetable source called dioscorea villosa or yam.

Diosgenin is actually the main ingredient of DHEA, aiding the transformation of certain enzymes into true DHEA molecules. DHEA produced through hemi-synthesis is almost 100% pure. At ANA, to be exact, it is 99.2% pure. Total synthesis likewise allows 100% purity; however, there can be no doubt that this method involves the same efficiency gap that exists between synthesized vitamin C and vitamin C from real oranges.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) and DHEA

You may be able to use both at the same time, however the use of DHEA cannot be a replacement for estrogen and progesterone HRT during menopause. In case the two treatments are used at the same time, an overdose of DHEA may cause an imbalance. DHEA indirectly increases the level of estradiol as well as that of other estrogens in the body, which is why women who use too much DHEA may complain of breast pain before their menstruation cycle.

DHEA and Other Hormones

Hormones interact among themselves; therefore, the efficiency of DHEA can be increased if it is used in combination with other hormones. At the same time, DHEA raises the level of testosterone and melatonin. A blood, urine or a saliva test will help adjust the levels of the other essential hormones and determine the correct balance between them. We also recommend combining DHEA use with other non-hormone products in order to increase its efficiency. For example, antioxidants such as vitamin E, vitamin C, carotenoids, polyphenols (e.g., green tea), as well as other active ingredients, such as shark cartilage, glucosamine and chondroitin.

DHEA May Help Reduce Symptoms of Rheumatism

DHEA may help against rheumatism in two ways. 1.) DHEA stimulates the healing process as well as the joints and the muscles that deteriorate in rheumatic patients. 2.) DHEA has an anti-inflammatory effect as it enhances cortisol’s pain-killing properties by preventing it from consuming too much tissue.

Warning:

When using hormones, the most important thing is to know exactly what supplement you will be using and to follow the recommended dosage. HORMONES ARE NOT A HEALTH THREAT AS LONG AS THEY ARE USED IN WELL-BALANCED DOSAGES.