DHEA

DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is a hormone naturally produced by your adrenal glands, which sit just above your kidneys.

It’s often called a “prohormone” because your body converts it into other key hormones — primarily testosterone and estrogen — making it an important part of overall hormonal balance.

DHEA levels peak in your mid-20s and steadily decline with age. This drop is associated with some of the common signs of aging. The idea behind DHEA therapy is to restore more youthful levels to support:

• Metabolism: Assisting fat loss and muscle growth.
• Energy: Helping combat fatigue and low stamina.
• Cognitive function: Supporting focus and mental clarity.
• Skin health: Improving hydration, firmness, and overall tone.

Evidence is mixed, and results can vary significantly from person to person, which is why provider-guided therapy is important.

Based on NuHealth Wellness protocols and general research, potential benefits may include:

• Increased energy levels and reduced fatigue
• Support for hormonal balance with age-related decline
• Improved mood and sense of well-being
• Enhanced cognitive function and mental clarity
• Improved skin health and appearance
• Support for muscle growth and fat loss when paired with diet and exercise

Because DHEA is converted into sex hormones, many side effects are hormone-related and depend on dose and individual sensitivity.

• Common: Oily skin, acne, upset stomach.
• In women: Unwanted hair growth (hirsutism), deepening of the voice, irregular periods.
• In men: Breast enlargement (gynecomastia) or breast tenderness.
• Other: Hair loss (male-pattern), headaches, fatigue, insomnia, or mood changes.

DHEA may also influence cholesterol levels (especially lowering HDL “good” cholesterol) and can interact with certain medications, so monitoring is essential.

According to NuHealth Wellness, ideal candidates may include:

• Adults with documented low DHEA or age-related hormonal decline
• Those seeking anti-aging support for energy, cognition, and skin
• Individuals looking to support metabolism alongside diet and exercise

Therapy is guided by lab testing. A medical provider reviews your bloodwork to confirm low DHEA and determine if supplementation is appropriate.

You should avoid DHEA or use extreme caution and medical supervision if you:

• Are pregnant or breastfeeding
• Are under 25 (your natural DHEA is likely at peak levels)
• Have a history of hormone-sensitive cancers (breast, prostate, ovarian, etc.)
• Have high cholesterol or known heart disease
• Have liver disease or significant liver impairment

A detailed consultation and review of your medical history are essential before starting therapy.

No. At NuHealth Wellness, DHEA is considered a supportive therapy, not a direct replacement for testosterone (TRT) or estrogen therapy (ERT).

While your body uses DHEA to produce these hormones, it may not be strong enough on its own to correct a true testosterone or estrogen deficiency. In some cases it is used alongside, not instead of, TRT or ERT.

Yes, DHEA is technically a steroid hormone. In the United States it is available over-the-counter as a dietary supplement.

However, DHEA is banned by many major sports organizations — including the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) and the NCAA — as a performance-enhancing substance. Competitive athletes should not use DHEA without understanding the rules that apply to them.

At NuHealth Wellness, DHEA therapy is medically supervised and built around your lab results and goals:

• 1. Consultation: A one-time consultation (about $50) to review symptoms and history.
• 2. Lab testing: Comprehensive bloodwork to measure DHEA and related hormones.
• 3. Treatment plan: If appropriate, a personalized DHEA protocol is prescribed.
• 4. Monitoring: Ongoing follow-up and labs to track safety and effectiveness.

The cost for a 12-week supply of DHEA is typically around $160, not including the initial consultation or labs.

This FAQ is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult with a licensed healthcare provider to determine if DHEA therapy is safe and appropriate for your specific health needs.