Do supplements suppress the adrenal glands natural production?
The production of many hormones is controlled by a “feedback loop,” which means that when hormone levels get too high, the body is told to make less, and when hormone levels are too low, the body is told to make more. Cortisol, testosterone, and estrogen are all regulated by this feedback. In other words, if a person takes cortisol, or a similar derivative such as prednisone, it will shut off the body’s natural production. DHEA appears to be one of the exceptions. There doesn’t seem to be a feedback mechanism. In other words, DHEA supplements are not likely to stop the body’s own production. Research and feedback from users indicate the following potential benefits: Adrenal insufficiency Arlt W, Callies F, Allolio B. DHEA replacement in women with adrenal insufficiency–pharmacokinetics, bioconversion and clinical effects on well-being, sexuality and cognition. Endocr Res. 2000 Nov. Anorexia nervosa May help reverse bone loss and some of the emotional disturbances associated with anore
