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Most people are familiar with the sex hormones estrogen, testosterone, and progesterone, which are replaced in traditional HRT (hormone replacement therapy). Less well known, but just as important to overall health, are the Hormones of Youth: DHEA, growth hormone, and melatonin. For optimum wellness, a hormonal balance must be maintained.
The most abundant steroid hormone in the human body-DHEA, or dehydroepiandrosterone-is primarily produced by the adrenal glands and eventually converted into male and female hormones (androgens and estrogens) by your cells. Although it is a precursor to other hormones, it has now been shown to have its own physiological effects.
Benefits of DHEA may include:
- Decreased stress1
- Improved memory2
- Relief of menopausal symptoms3
- Protection for strong bones4
- Enhanced libido5
- Increased lean body mass6
- Maintenance of immune system7
DHEA levels peak around age 25, then steadily decline by 50 percent in your 40s. By the age of 85, the body contains just 5 percent of youthful levels of this hormone, indicating a possible connection to longevity. Also known as the "superstar of the super hormones," DHEA has been shown to slow aging in some animal experiments. 8
Testing: Before supplementing with DHEA, Ray & Terry recommend having your DHEA-S level checked and then rechecked 6-8 weeks after beginning supplementation to make sure the desired level has been achieved. Try for about 300 for men and 250 for women. Men can start supplementing with 15 to 25 milligrams of DHEA per day, and women with 5 to 15 milligrams per day.
Because DHEA is an androgenic hormone and is easily converted into testosterone, men should check their PSA levels before beginning to supplement with DHEA and on a regular basis (every 6-12 months) while taking it. If PSA levels rise, discontinue DHEA use and consult a physician.
Dosage: Take one veggie cap daily.
Ray & Terry's DHEA contains 50 vegetarian capsules per bottle.
Ray & Terry's DHEA is equally effective when taken with or without food. However, if your digestive system is sensitive, you may want to take your supplements with meals.
| Supplement Facts |
| Serving Size: 1 Veggie Capsule |
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| Amount Per Serving |
% Daily Value |
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| DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone) |
10 mg |
* |
|
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*% Daily Value Not Established |
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Other Ingredients: Cellulose, cellulose (capsule shell), silica, and magnesium stearate. |
| CAUTION: Not for use by individuals under 18 years of age. Do not use if pregnant or nursing. Consult a physician or licensed qualified health care professional before using this product if you have, or have a family history of, prostate cancer, prostate enlargement, heart disease, low "good" cholesterol (HDL), or if you are using any other dietary supplement, prescription drug, or over-the-counter drug. Do not exceed recommended serving. Exceeding recommended serving may cause serious adverse health effects. Possible side effects include acne, hair loss, hair growth on the face (in women), aggressiveness, irritability, and increased levels of estrogen. Discontinue use and call a physician or licensed qualified health care professional immediately if you experience rapid heartbeat, dizziness, blurred vision, or other similar symptoms. Keep out of reach of children. |
References:
- Arch Gen Psychiatry. 2004;61:819-825. Morgan, Charles, et al.
- Ann NY Acad Sci1995 774: 337-339. Wolkowitz, O.M.
- Fertil Steril.2003;80:1495-1501. Genazzani, AD et al.
- Clin Endocrinol (Oxf). 2000;53:561-568 Villareal, D. et al.
- J Womens Health Gend Based Med. 2002 Mar;11(2):155-62. Hackbert, L et al.
- Clin Endocrinol (Oxf). 2000;53:561-568 Villareal, D. et al.
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J Gerontol A Biol Sci Med Sci. 1997 Jan;52(1):M1-7. Khorram, O, et al.
- J Med Assoc Thai. Oct;84(Suppl 2):S605-612. 2001. W. Leowattana.
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