No. 111DHEA
DHEA is a hormone made mainly by the adrenal glands. The body turns it into other hormones, including testosterone and estrogen, raw material for the hormone factory. Levels fall steadily with age, and it is used to support energy, mood and bone.
Main benefits
Adrenal hormone that falls with age; energy, mood, bone
Food sources
Not found in food. The body makes it, mostly in the adrenal glands. Supplements are made in a lab, often starting from compounds in wild yam or soy.
Why people take it
People take it when blood tests show low levels, usually with age, for energy, mood and bone health. Results are mixed, and blood levels are tested before and during use.
Amounts
Common amount: 5–25 mg (women), 25–50 mg (men), only after blood testing.
Cautions and interactions
Hormone-sensitive cancers. PCOS. Pregnancy and breastfeeding. Bipolar disorder (mania). Liver disease. Acne and facial hair.
Reference entry: not taught in a course Lesson.
No. 112Pregnenolone
Pregnenolone is a hormone the body makes from cholesterol. It is called a parent hormone because the body uses it to make DHEA, progesterone, cortisol and other hormones. Busy parent, big family. It is also active in the brain and is used for memory and mood.
Main benefits
Parent hormone of DHEA and others; memory and mood
Food sources
Not found in food. The body makes it from cholesterol, mainly in the adrenal glands, brain and sex glands. Supplements are made in a lab.
Why people take it
People take it for memory, mood and hormone support. The evidence is limited.
Amounts
Common amount: 10–50 mg a day, guided by blood tests.
Cautions and interactions
Same cautions as DHEA. Pregnancy.
Reference entry: not taught in a course Lesson.