Evidence supporting the use of: DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone)
For the body system: Adrenal Glands

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Synopsis

Source of validity: Scientific
Rating (out of 5): 2

DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is an endogenous steroid hormone produced primarily by the adrenal glands. Its levels naturally decline with age, and low DHEA levels have been observed in individuals with adrenal insufficiency and certain chronic illnesses. The rationale for supplementing DHEA to "support" the adrenal glands comes from its physiological role as a precursor to androgens and estrogens, as well as its involvement in various metabolic processes. Some clinical studies have explored DHEA supplementation in people with adrenal insufficiency (such as Addison’s disease). These studies show that DHEA may improve quality of life, mood, and sexual function in individuals with diagnosed adrenal insufficiency and very low DHEA levels. However, DHEA supplementation does not restore adrenal gland function or replace the need for standard adrenal hormone replacement therapy (such as hydrocortisone or fludrocortisone). For people with normal adrenal function, there is little to no evidence that DHEA supplementation "supports" or enhances adrenal gland health. In summary, the use of DHEA to support the adrenal glands has a limited scientific basis, primarily in the context of adrenal insufficiency, not in healthy individuals. The overall strength of the evidence is low (rated 2/5) and does not support widespread use for general adrenal support in the absence of diagnosed deficiency.

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