DHEA, which is produced by the adrenal glands in men and women, is dehydroepiandrosterone. We commonly call it the “youth hormone” because it increases the body’s physical and mental stability. Although DHEA is more often associated with women, it has a major impact on men’s health and is increasingly being used by men as a supplement for its various benefits. In this article, we are going to talk about the pros and cons, and side effects of DHEA in men.
Benefits of DHEA for Men:
1. Increases Testosterone Levels
The most common male sex hormone is testosterone, which plays a major role in muscle growth, vitality and sex drive for men. It inevitably begins to recede around age 30 and produces different symptoms including fatigue, weakness and diminished sexual desire. Because DHEA naturally works as a precursor to testosterone, supplementing with this precursor increases testosterone levels, increasing muscle mass, mood and reviving sexual function. This hormone production often yields a healthier, more comfortable life and thus promotes energy in all aspects of men’s health.
2. Strengthens Bone Health
The density of bones also decreases as men get older, putting them at greater risk of breaking bones and osteoporosis. Alternatively, DHEA has been researched to influence bone health, possibly both promoting bone formation and suppressing bone loss. Indeed, there are even indications that taking DHEA supplements improves bone density in older men, providing them with sturdy bones and minimising their chances of skeletal complications. DHEA could therefore also contribute to optimal bone health, longevity and exercise.
3. Improvement in Cognitive Function
The toughest thing to deal with as we age is a decline in thinking clarity and memory, something with which ordinary life can become more fraught. DHEA was viewed as increasing men’s mental ability and memory. Research suggests that DHEA plays a role in neurodevelopment by influencing neurotransmitter biosynthesis and, thus, the quality of clarity, attention and overall cognitive function. Men are capable of maintaining their mental alertness well into old age, thanks to DHEA supplementation.
4. Supports Heart Health
Men are particularly concerned about their cardiovascular condition, particularly in older age. Fortunately, DHEA protects the heart, enhancing multiple aspects of heart health. It can reduce inflammation, increase blood circulation and help keep cholesterol in check. It is, therefore, a useful supplement to a male-focused healthy lifestyle as it may reduce risk factors for cardiovascular disease and stroke. This is particularly important in the modern age, when cardiovascular disease is one of the most prevalent sources of morbidity.
5. Anti-Aging Effects
Anti-aging products are in vogue these days, and DHEA supplementation is no exception, and has been tested against ageing. Several physiological age-related changes such as hormonal dysregulation, reduced immune system, and cognitive impairment were attributed to the natural decline of DHEA. Conversely, DHEA appears to be able to negate those effects and is one way that men can keep their bodies healthy well into old age. This creates an entirely new realm of lifelong living and makes DHEA one of the most popular topics among men seeking to boost their quality of life.
Studies
One study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that DHEA supplementation led to significant improvements in subjective wellbeing, such as less fatigue, improved mood and improved sexual function, in middle-aged and older men. Additionally, DHEA has been demonstrated to enhance insulin sensitivity and body shape, thus lowering the risk of metabolic syndrome.
In addition, DHEA has been investigated for its potential to enhance cognition in older men. According to a paper in the Journal of Neuroscience, DHEA supplementation has been found to improve learning and memory performance in tasks involving the hippocampus, a key part of the brain responsible for these abilities. This means that DHEA could mitigate age-related cognitive decline.
Men DHEA Side Effects:
Although DHEA is safe, it can have the following side effects in men:
1. Acne
Among the more noticeable side effects of taking DHEA supplements are the acne-related breakouts. This is because the androgenic effects can cause more oil to be released into the skin. Because of this, acne can be observed in men, particularly in those who are predisposed to certain skin diseases. This side-effect can be irritating to the user, and could even require dermatological care if the problem is serious.
2. Hair Loss
All available data to date suggests that DHEA therapy raises dihydrotestosterone-a testosterone derivative that causes male hair loss. The increase in testosterone may be a welcome benefit for those taking DHEA, but the DHT increase is sometimes connected to thinning hair or male pattern baldness. It is important for men who care about their hair to take this seriously before taking DHEA.
3. Mood Changes
Hormones have a track record of influencing mood, and so has DHEA. Males can feel moody, irritable, aggressive or even anxious. These will also impact one’s daily relationships and life. Mood changes would vary widely from person to person, which means one must closely observe the state of one’s emotions while taking DHEA.
4. Hormonal Changes
DHEA, especially when consumed over-the-counter or out of moderation, can disrupt the healthy levels of hormones in the body. The potential side effects of this interference include gynecomastia, diminished sperm count, and deflating testicles. These potential side effects outline a need to consider prescribed dosages and professional advice before taking supplements.
Dosage and Precautions:
Men should take 25-50 mg of DHEA a day. Please always check with a doctor before beginning DHEA supplementation to see how much is appropriate and how often it is needed to keep track of potential side effects.
Men with prostate cancer shouldn’t take DHEA because it can exacerbate the disease. Neither should it be used by men with hormone-sensitive breast or prostate cancers, since it might predispose them to developing such cancers.
Conclusion:
DHEA is a hormone important to men and, oh my god, it has so many health benefits: testosterone, bones, memory, heart health, youthfulness. Yet, it must be used safely under the medical supervision of a physician to avoid adverse reactions. Men should also take certain precautions and talk to their doctor prior to taking DHEA to determine if it’s right for them.
