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DHEAS

DEHYDROEPIANDROSTERONE SULFATE (DHEAS)

DHEA sulfate (DHEAS) is a weak male hormone produced almost exclusively in the adrenal gland. Small amounts are also produced in the ovaries and testicles. The secretion of DHEA and DHEAS is partially regulated by ACTH. Most of the DHEA in the blood is in the DHEAS form, i.e. sulfated DHEA conjugate. DHEAS is significantly more efficient in binding to proteins compared to DHEA. DHEAS is a precursor of several steroid hormones—it can transform into other androgens and estrogens. At normal levels, DHEA has been shown to improve physical and psychological well-being, increase muscular strength and bone density, maintain libido, and decrease body adipose tissue and aging-related skin fragility.


The test and other hormone tests are used to assess adrenal gland function. Normal, sufficient DHEAS levels are required for the immune system's optimal function and normal physical and psychological well-being. DHEAS levels may be elevated due to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), a tumor in the adrenal gland, Cushing's syndrome, or adrenal gland hyperplasia. Higher normal DHEAS levels are associated with decreased abdominal obesity.


Low DHEAS levels may be caused by adrenal insufficiency or malfunction, Addison’s disease or pituitary failure. Low DHEAS levels are associated with depression, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, impaired cognitive functions, obesity and exhaustion.13 Metformin, prolactin, danazol, calcium channel blockers, and nicotine may boost S-DHEAS levels. Drugs and substances that lower S-DHEAS levels include insulin, contraceptive pills, corticosteroids, drugs affecting liver enzyme activity (carbamazepine, phenytoin, clomipramine), statins, dopamine/levodopa, vitamin E and fish oils.


DHEA levels below the reference range are often treated with a DHEA product requiring a prescription. DHEA products are most commonly used by post-menopausal women. In some countries DHEA products are sold over the counter; however, in Finland for example, DHEA is a regulated substance. Based on a comprehensive meta-analysis, no significant side effects appear to be linked to DHEA use in post-menopausal women with normal adrenal gland function. There is conflicting data on DHEA supplement use in the elderly and no unambiguous scientific evidence of any benefits currently exists.


Low DHEAS levels are also found in individuals aged under 50. This is due to chronic stress in otherwise healthy individuals, which usually lowers DHEAS levels if prolonged. The primary factor in normalizing DHEAS levels is stress management. Studies on Rhesus monkeys have found that an immediate reaction to acute stressors can be seen in the DHEAS levels. A study published in 2013 found that individuals experiencing stress at work produced less DHEA and had significantly lower blood DHEAS levels.


Key factors in managing adrenal gland stress and optimizing DHEAS levels:

  • Anti-inflammatory diet
  • Sufficient, high-quality sleep
  • Regular exercise (not too stressful or strenuous)
  • Breathing exercises/conscious breathing
  • Improving the condition of the intestine
  • Adaptogenic herbs and dietary supplements
  • Pantothenic acid as a dietary supplement
  • Sufficient vitamin D intake
  • Consuming healthy fats (including omega-3 fatty acids, olive oil, avocados, coconut oil, nuts, seeds, etc.)
  • Regular sunlight, particularly in the morning hours

Reference ranges (S-DHEAS):

  • Women aged 16–50: 2–13 μmol/L
  • Women aged 50+: see the statement
  • Men aged 16-50: 2.5–16 μmol/L
  • Men aged 50+: see the statement

With men and women aged 50+, the results decrease with age. Reference ranges may vary in different laboratories with different laboratory analyzing protocols.