DHEA Supplements for Men: Can This Hormone Supplement Slow the Clock?

You've probably heard about dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) as a supplement that can help promote healthy aging in men. But what is it, and how can it help you navigate each stage of life?

DHEA is one of the most abundant circulating steroid hormones, produced by the adrenal glands. It is eventually transformed into estrogen and androgens (such as testosterone), which are hormones that play a vital role in human health, affecting both females and males.

Think of DHEA as a raw ingredient, much like flour in the kitchen. On its own, it may not seem like much, but it is one component of a "recipe" for hormonal function, which is key to overall health.

As these steroid hormones naturally decline with age, men may experience changes in their muscle mass and bone health.

A DHEA supplement for men is one option to consider for maintaining these vital parts of their health. Because DHEA levels peak in early adulthood and decline steadily over time, men may require different amounts of it at various stages of life.

How does DHEA affect men?

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a hormone your body naturally makes, primarily in the adrenal glands. These vital organs are located above the kidneys. DHEA is referred to as a "precursor hormone" because it is converted into other hormones that have effects on the body.

When it is transformed into testosterone, it can support men's health in several ways. Testosterone, the most important androgen, plays a crucial role in maintaining muscle mass, bone health, and sexual function and libido in the male body. It is also associated with stable energy levels.

If you're feeling like you're not quite yourself—at work, in the gym or in the bedroom—your hormones may be to blame. Typically, changes in hormones start in the 30s and 40s, but this can vary from person to person, so it's hard to know where you're at without testing your levels.

Hormone testing for men should include levels of free and total testosterone, DHEA sulfate (DHEA-S) levels, and PSA. This can help guide how and what you should be supplementing with.

Pro tip: DHEA products come in different forms. Compare different options based on your individual needs.

DHEA supplement benefits for men

If you find out that you have a low level of DHEA-S, how can supplementation help? DHEA for men benefits include:

• Bone health

  —Estrogen and testosterone levels play a crucial role in maintaining bone health. As sex hormone levels decline with age, bone density is also impacted. Evidence from some studies suggests that DHEA supplements have the potential to support bone health in aging adults when used for 12 months.

• Muscle mass and strength

  —Evidence shows that DHEA levels decline by about 80% between the ages of 25 and 75 years. As these levels decrease, so does your muscle mass. In older men, some studies have shown that DHEA, combined with regular strength training, is associated with increases in muscle mass and strength.

Recommended DHEA dosage for men

In clinical research with older men, daily doses of 50 mg have been used. That being said, the best DHEA supplement for men is the one that takes into account your existing DHEA serum levels, as well as your wellness goals and lifestyles. Always follow the product label carefully and your healthcare professional's guidance. Here are some other tips:

• Test first, supplement second

  —Begin with a DHEA-S blood test and ask your healthcare professional to recommend an optimal dose based on your level.

• Read the label

  —As is the case with any supplement, review the label directions before taking.

• Best time to take DHEA

  —The best time to take DHEA is in the morning. This is because levels of the hormone naturally increase in the body during the day and decrease at night. Timing your supplementation with this natural rise may give you the most beneficial effects.

• Cycling vs. daily use

  —Cycling your intake of DHEA is a practice we typically don't recommend unless instructed to by a healthcare provider. Most supplements should be taken daily. Furthermore, it can be challenging to form a habit if it is not practiced each day. The most important thing is to make sure you're following label instructions.

Side effects and safety tips for DHEA supplementation

Here's what to expect when men take DHEA:

• Safety

  —Everyone's physiology is unique, so your response to this or any supplement may differ from that of other men. That being said, DHEA is generally considered safe, but keep an eye out for how you respond to DHEA and contact your healthcare provider if you have any concerns.

• When to test levels

  —You should test your levels before starting DHEA supplements and then again in 3 to 6 weeks to monitor the effects and discuss dose adjustments with your healthcare provider.

• Who should avoid DHEA

  —Some people should be cautious if they have a personal health history involving their hormones. You should also use DHEA supplements cautiously if you are taking other supplements or medications.

For the best results, always discuss new supplements with your healthcare professional before you start them to avoid any risk to your health.

How to choose the best DHEA supplement

If you've ever stood in front of a shelf wondering which supplement is worth the money, here are some recommendations:

• Strength

  —DHEA supplements come in a range of strengths. The most common provide benefits at 50 mg or more, with some as high as 100 mg. Before increasing dosage, track the effects over a few weeks, then retest your levels as necessary.

• Form

  —Capsules are the most common form of DHEA supplementation. They are also easy to travel with.

• Stacking

  —Take DHEA alone for a while to ensure you don't experience any side effects. Later, pair DHEA supplements with other supplements for men that can support hormone, muscle, and bone health for complementary health benefits.

• Quality

  —It is essential to select a reputable brand with established quality standards.

• For partners

  —If you and your partner are exploring DHEA together, there are benefits of DHEA for women.

Is DHEA safe for men over 40 or 50?

DHEA supplementation is generally considered to be safe when used as directed. Make sure to consult with your healthcare provider and keep your individual health considerations in mind. To be safe, ensure that your DHEA-S levels are tested before starting and 3 to 6 weeks after initiating DHEA to achieve optimal dosing.

Should I take DHEA every day?

It is simplest to take DHEA every day so that you remember to take it and to achieve stable levels in the body. But remember to always follow the supplement label instructions to guide you.

How long does DHEA take to work?

It usually takes 3 to 6 weeks to see changes in DHEA blood levels. However, benefits like muscle strength and bone health may take several months to take effect.

However, DHEA has a different impact on different people, so it is essential to monitor how you feel and keep everything else in your routine stable.

References

• Corona G, Maggi M. "The role of testosterone in male sexual function." Rev Endocr Metab Disord. December 2022. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9789013/
• Jankowski CM, et al. "Effects of dehydroepiandrosterone replacement therapy on bone mineral density in older adults: a randomized, controlled trial." J Clin Endocrinol Metab. August 2006. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16735495/
• Quinn TA, et al. "Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and DHEA Sulfate: Roles in Brain Function and Disease." Sex Hormones in Neurodegenerative Processes and Diseases. May 2018. https://www.intechopen.com/chapters/58381
• Villareal DT, Holloszy JO. "DHEA enhances effects of weight training on muscle mass and strength in elderly women and men." Am J Physiol Endocrinol Metab. November 2006. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/16787962/
• "Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) Sulfate." LabCorp. https://www.labcorp.com/tests/004020/dehydroepiandrosterone-dhea-sulfate