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Dehydroepiandrosterone is a hormone known as DHEA. It has been used to
adjust age related issues in animals and is known to boost certain
components associated with the immune system in mice, and also helping
prevent several types of cancers. During clinical studies, DHEA in older
individuals showed improvement in muscle growth, however other studies
performed did not agree with the results. There are certain people that
believe that DHEA improves energy levels and immunity, while increasint
muscle strength, and cutting down on body fat. You should be aware though
that there is a lack of research as of today that supports claims like
these, or provide valid information that DHEA administration is a safe
option.
DHEA works
by traveling though your blood in a special type of form known as ‘DHEA
sulfate’. This form then turns into DHEA as it enters a cell. Younger
people usually experience high levels of DHEA sulfate however, it usually
drops as we age. DHEA is changed by an individual’s body into 2 additional
hormones: Testosterone and Estrogen. If you plan on taking DHEA
supplements, you should be aware of that they can result in production of
these 2 hormones in large amounts, which could be a dangerous situation.
Naturally made testosterone in both men and women are important when it
comes to breast and prostate cancer(s). Based on the experts opinion, it
isn’t known whether or not DHEA supplements will increase the risk of
cancer development.
For more
information on DHEA and the Growth Hormone, visit:
www.nia.nih.gov
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