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DHEA (dihydroepiandrosterone) is a natural hormone that is produced in the brain, skin and adrenal glands. It is the most abundant steroid hormone in the body. As we age, our levels of DHEA drop, so that typically by the age of 45 we produce only half of the DHEA we produced at 20. Many scientists believe that the decline in DHEA (along with the decline in testosterone) has a role in much of the physical and mental decline we associate with "normal" aging. Hundreds of studies have documented the vital role that DHEA plays in the body, but it appears to be especially important for normal immune function. It also appears to have a significant effect on our emotional well being, with one study reporting "a remarkable increase in perceived physical and psychological well-being for both men and women". The men and women not only felt better when they were taking DHEA but said they were better able to cope with stress. Other studies have shown that low levels of DHEA increase the risk of heart disease in men. And interestingly, in one study of men over the age of 40, low levels of DHEA were strongly correlated with sexual dysfunction. |




