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continued:

DHEA: Evidence for anti-aging claims is weak

What are the side effects of DHEA?

Some studies of DHEA have linked the supplement to:

  • Reduced high-density lipoprotein (HDL), or "good," cholesterol levels
  • Increased facial hair in women
  • Acne

Long-term adverse effects of DHEA are still being researched. Because DHEA can, in theory, raise testosterone and estrogen levels, there's some concern that long-term or excessive use of DHEA supplements could increase the risk of prostate cancer, breast cancer or other hormone-sensitive cancers.

What do you tell people who want to try DHEA?

DHEA supplementation doesn't have proven benefits in older adults and might cause adverse side effects. Don't take DHEA to prevent, delay or reverse age-related changes in your body. Instead, remember that there's no substitute for a healthy lifestyle. Maintain a healthy weight, eat a balanced diet, include physical activity in your daily routine, and seek regular health screenings.

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References
  1. Chrousos GP. Dehyrdoepiandrosterone and its sulfate. http://www.uptodate.com/home/index.html. Accessed Aug. 18, 2011.
  2. Baker WL, et al. Effect of dehydroepiandrosterone on muscle strength and physical function in older adults: A systematic review. Journal of the American Geriatrics Society. 2011;59:997.
  3. Sorwell KG, et al. Dehydroepiandrosterone and age-related cognitive decline. Age. 2010;32:61.
  4. Nair KS, et al. DHEA in elderly women and DHEA or testosterone in elderly men. The New England Journal of Medicine. 2006;355:1647.
  5. Igwebuike A, et al. Lack of dehydroepiandrosterone effect on a combined endurance and exercise resistance program in postmenopausal women. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism. 2008;93:534.
  6. Weiss EP, et al. Dehydroepiandrosterone replacement therapy in older adults: 1- and 2-y effects on bone. The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition. 2009;89:1459.
  7. Jankowski CM, et al. Increases in bone mineral density in response to oral dehydroepiandrosterone replacement in older adults appear to be mediated by serum estrogens. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism. 2008;93:4767.
  8. Davis SR, et al. Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate levels are associated with more favorable cognitive function in women. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism. 2008;93:801.
  9. DHEA. Natural Medicines Comprehensive Database. http://www.naturaldatabase.com. Accessed Aug. 19, 2011.
  10. Arnold JT, et al. Does DHEA exert direct effects on androgen and estrogen receptors, and does it promote or prevent prostate cancer? Endocrinology. 2005;146:4565.
HA00084 Oct. 21, 2011

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