How does DHEA work in the body?
Although it’s still unclear exactly how DHEA works, scientists believe this is what happens: Circulating through the blood stream in an inactive form called DHEA sulfate, this hormone becomes active when it comes in contact with a specific cell or tissue that “needs” it. Consequently, the sulfate is removed and it is then converted to androgens and estrogens. One of DHEA’s most over-looked, but vital roles may be its ability to counter-balance cortisol when DHEA is low, cortisol levels are high and vice-versa. Cortisol, one of the few hormones that usually increases with age, induces stress. And when it circulates at high levels for long periods of time it may affect many bodily functions, including damaging insulin resistance and the endocrine system, and the hypothalamus. Maintaining healthy levels of DHEA for aging and stressed individuals may be its most important role due to its ability to lower cortisol levels.
