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DHEA: The Anti-Aging Super Hormone - Page 3

© Robert M. Oliva

Sex Enhancement:

Placebo controlled studies were performed on women’s and men’s sexual desire and performance. The New England Journal of Medicine reported on a study from Germany showing that DHEA supplementation increases a woman’s sexual interest by about 50%. This included the frequency of sexual fantasies and the level of satisfaction obtained from sexual activity. Dosage for the study was 50 mg. a day.

A similar study on men was conducted in Austria for six months. The participants were given the “International Index of Erectile Function.” The categories of sexual desire, orgasmic function, erectile function, etc. were all improved by the end of the 24-week period of study. DHEA was only one of 17 hormones tested in this way but was the only one to demonstrate significant improvement in sexual function. Importantly, no change in PSA, testosterone or prolactin was experienced by any of the study’s participants. This is an especially critical finding since many have thought that DHEA may increase the risk of prostate cancer.

Prostate Cancer:

Although there are many studies now underway to determine the role of DHEA in cancer prevention it is known that DHEA should not be used when prostate cancer is evident. DHEA may stimulate the production of testosterone. This male hormone is known to feed prostatic tumors. Men with a high risk of prostate cancer or who have this form of cancer should not take DHEA unless they are under the supervision of a medical professional who has experience in this area. PSA levels will have to be monitored regularly.

As a precaution it may be wise for men who wish to take DHEA to supplement their diets with the following herbs and antioxidants: Saw Palmetto Extract, Lycopene, Pygeum, Nettle Extract, the Gamma version of Vitamin E, Selenium, and the regular alpha form of Vitamin E. There are many effective formulas readily available at health food stores around the country.

Dosages

Knowing how much DHEA to take is an important aspect of using this hormone effectively. The Life Extension Foundation has set guidelines for the safe, long-term use of DHEA.

First, when taking DHEA it is important to make sure that ample antioxidants are available to the liver. DHEA can promote free radicals in the liver. Vitamin E and Alpha lipoic acid have been shown to be very effective in reducing any negative effects on liver cells.

Second, a DHEA blood test should be taken three to six weeks after beginning DHEA therapy. This will help determine the best dosage. The problem with not taking blood tests is that on the one hand you will not know if you actually need supplementation and on the other hand if you do you will not know which dose is appropriate. Dosage requirements vary considerably among individuals. Don’t chronically over or under dose. The DHEA blood test is easy and dependable.

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