Last modified on October 21st, 2023
There are reasons if you’re wondering why take DHEA at night or how to time taking this potentially powerful supplement.
DHEA stands for dehydroepiandrosterone, a hormone the adrenal glands produce.
Your body naturally uses DHEA to make both estrogens and androgens. Estrogens are female sex hormones, and androgens are male hormones.
Once you are around 25, your DHEA levels peak and steadily decline.
Once you’re 70 to 80 years old, your DHEA levels are only 10-20% of what they are in younger adults.
Since levels of DHEA decline as we age, researchers think using it as a supplement could be a potentially potent anti-aging treatment.
Low levels of DHEA are associated with breast cancer, osteoporosis, heart disease, and memory loss.
Below, we explore why to take DHEA at night and provide an overview of DHEA supplementation.
Low DHEA Levels: What to Know
Before supplementing with DHEA, it’s possible to check your natural levels.
It’s involved in testosterone synthesis and estradiol synthesis in men and women.
It’s not as strong as testosterone, but it’s important for men with low levels.
For example, having adequate DHEA levels as a man can ensure that DHT levels are maintained when there’s deficient testosterone production.
In women, DHEA levels contribute to around 90% of hormones circulating after menopause.
Symptoms of low levels can include:
- Weight gain is often because of hormonal imbalances involving the sex hormones that control water retention and energy metabolism. Taking a DHEA supplement may help change how the cells of the liver work, and it can modulate your metabolism.
- Low levels are linked to depression, although having high levels of DHEA can also cause mental health side effects like disinhibition or risky behaviors.
- Since DHEA is a sex hormone, deficiency symptoms are often linked to sexual dysfunction. In studies, men with erectile dysfunction are more likely to have low levels, and in women, DHEA helps keep up hormone levels after menopause, so lower levels can lead to lower sex drive.
- Sometimes you’ll hear DHEA called the youth hormone; when someone has problems with inflammation, psoriasis, or even allergies, they could be deficient. Since it’s a steroid hormone, DHEA can suppress inflammation as with other steroids, but not having enough can mean chronic inflammation.
- Having low levels of DHEA can cause problems with memory and the function of the brain.
- Low levels may be an underlying cause of chronic fatigue syndrome.
- Reduced bone density and osteoporosis.
- Higher risk of developing type 2 diabetes.
- Increased risk of cardiovascular disease.
There are ways to raise your DHEA levels naturally, even without a supplement.
For example, learning healthy ways to deal with stress can be a good way to increase your DHEA. When you cope with stress healthily, it helps you have balanced cortisol levels to preserve proper adrenal function.
Getting enough sleep, having a balanced diet with plenty of healthy fats, and exercising are all important for producing steroids.
Causes of DHEA Declines
DHEA begins increasing as a child is around the age of 9 or 10.
Then, DHEA levels peak between 20 and 35 and begin declining.
Even though levels naturally decline as we age, conditions like a damaged adrenal gland or hypopituitarism can lead to lower-than-normal levels.
Other causes for levels that drop more than what would be considered normal include:
- If you have ongoing anxiety or high stress levels, it can contribute to high cortisol levels. Cortisol and DHEA will usually have an inverse relationship, so if your cortisol is too high, your DHEA might be too low.
- The pituitary gland doesn’t produce the normal amount of hormones—this is known as hypopituitarism.
- Adrenal gland disorders can cause lower-than-expected levels of DHEA. One disorder is Addison’s disease, but you could also have an autoimmune disorder that damages your adrenals.
- Taking glucocorticoid medicines can lower levels.
Benefits of DHEA Supplementation
A DHEA supplement may help balance hormones, replenishing the levels you naturally lose as you age.
Your levels start to decrease around 30, and low levels and heart disease are associated with depression.
Taking it as a supplement can increase your body’s DHEA levels and converts them to testosterone and estrogen.
The potential benefits of supplementing with DHEA can include:
- Increased bone density: Some evidence suggests that lower DHEA levels are associated with decreased bone density and a higher risk of bone fractures. Supplementing may, at least according to some research, improve bone density, especially in older women.
- Higher testosterone: Supplementing may increase testosterone levels in men, and in some studies, it helped improve upper and lower body strength in older adults.
- Combatting depression: In studies, especially looking at women getting close to menopause, those with severe depression also seem to have lower DHEA levels. Research shows that DHEA supplements could help treat depression, especially in people with mild symptoms or whose symptoms don’t respond to traditional treatments.
- Sexual function and libido: A supplement affecting sex hormones also has an impact on sexual function in a variety of ways. For example, DHEA supplementation may improve ovary function in women with fertility problems. Studies also show that DHEA supplementation can improve sexual function and libido in men and women. In men, evidence suggests these supplements might help men with erectile dysfunction get and maintain erections.
- Adrenal problems: DHEA supplements can help with certain adrenal problems. The adrenals are glands on top of the kidneys and are the main producer of DHEA. If you have adrenal insufficiency, your glands can’t produce enough hormones. DHEA supplements have been researched to help with certain symptoms of adrenal insufficiency. In studies of women with adrenal insufficiency, DHEA helped reduce depression and anxiety and improved sexual satisfaction and overall well-being.
- Menopause symptoms: Some specific menopause symptoms taking a DHEA supplement may help include reduced sex drive and vaginal dryness. In some preliminary studies, supplementing raised certain hormone levels in pre-and postmenopausal women.
- Lupus: Certain studies have shown benefits for people with lupus, especially with higher doses.
- Body composition and muscle mass: Having low natural levels of DHEA can negatively affect your metabolic and overall health. Using a supplement might improve your lean body mass and reduce fat mass. It may also improve the results you see from strength training.
DHEA Dose
There aren’t standardized doses with supplements, including DHEA supplements, since the FDA doesn’t regulate them.
Common doses of DHEA used in studies are 25 to 50 mg.
There are reports of some people using doses of anywhere from 10 to 500 mg a day.
Typically, a 50 mg daily dose has been shown safe.
The potential side effects of DHEA can include more hair growth in the pubic area and armpits, as well as oilier skin and acne.
If you have cancer affected by sex hormones, you shouldn’t take DHEA.
If you’re under 40, you should speak to your doctor before taking the supplement; they can check your levels beforehand.
If you have hormone-related conditions like PCOS or endometriosis, you should speak to your healthcare provider before taking this supplement because it could worsen the symptoms.
When To Take DHEA?
The best time to take DHEA is typically in the morning, if possible.
You can take a once-daily dose.
You might want to start by taking a lower dose of 25 mg and working your way up to the recommended dosage of 50 mg.
Why Take DHEA in the Morning?
Along with wondering why take DHEA at night, you might also wonder why take DHEA in the morning?
It follows a pattern similar to cortisol levels, which are higher in the morning and lower in the evening.
If you’re supplementing once a day, you want to try and mimic sleep patterns and your body’s natural production.
Thus, it’s best to take it in the morning. If you are taking multiple divided doses, you might want to spread them out in the first half of the day, optimizing your own hormone patterns.
Why Take DHEA at Night?
While the conventional wisdom is to take this supplement in the morning, taking it at night may be beneficial, based on your goals.
So why take DHEA at night specifically?
You might include it in your nighttime supplement routine because it could alleviate insomnia symptoms and improve sleep quality.
Taking DHEA at night could also help you sleep, reduce stress and inflammation, and boost your energy the next morning.
Why Take DHEA At Night-Final Thoughts
DHEA can be a powerful supplement with effects on hormone levels and adrenal glands.
Having low DHEA levels naturally can lead to problems with estrogen or testosterone production, bone and heart health, fertility, and immune system health issues.
Using a DHEA supplement in the morning is best because it’ll follow your body’s natural hormone cycles.
On the other hand, you might take it at night if your biggest goals are stress and insomnia reduction.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the role of DHEA in health and well-being?
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a natural steroid hormone produced by the adrenal glands, which are located on top of your kidneys. DHEA serves several important roles in the body and plays a part in health and well-being. Here are some key aspects of DHEA’s role:
Precursor to Other Hormones: DHEA is a precursor hormone, which means it can be converted into other hormones in the body. One of its primary conversions is into sex hormones, such as testosterone and estrogen. This conversion plays a crucial role in maintaining hormonal balance in both men and women.
Regulating Immune Function: DHEA is involved in modulating the immune system. It can have both immune-enhancing and immune-suppressing effects, depending on the specific immune responses needed by the body.
Stress Response: DHEA is also associated with the body’s response to stress. It can help counteract the effects of stress hormones like cortisol and mitigate some of the negative consequences of chronic stress.
Anti-Aging: Some studies have suggested that DHEA levels decline with age, and this decline has been linked to the aging process. As a result, DHEA has been explored as a potential anti-aging compound, although research in this area is ongoing.
Bone Health: DHEA may play a role in bone health by contributing to the production of bone minerals and maintaining bone density.
Cognitive Function: There is some evidence to suggest that DHEA may have a positive impact on cognitive function, particularly in older adults. It is believed to influence memory and cognitive performance.
Energy and Well-being: DHEA is thought to play a role in overall energy levels and well-being. Some people take DHEA supplements to potentially boost vitality and improve mood.
How does taking a DHEA supplement help with aging?
Some people consider taking DHEA supplements as a way to potentially counteract the effects of aging. Here’s how DHEA supplementation may play a role in addressing age-related issues:
Hormone Balance: DHEA is a precursor to other hormones, including testosterone and estrogen. As individuals age, their natural production of DHEA decreases, which can lead to hormonal imbalances. Supplementing with DHEA may help maintain more balanced levels of these hormones.
Cognitive Function: Some research suggests that DHEA may have a positive impact on cognitive function, particularly in older adults. It is thought to influence memory and overall cognitive performance, which can be a concern in aging populations.
Bone Health: DHEA has been associated with the production of bone minerals and the maintenance of bone density. This may be relevant because bone health is a concern for many people as they age.
Mood and Well-Being: DHEA is believed to influence mood and overall well-being. Some people report improved energy and mood after taking DHEA supplements.
Immune Function: DHEA is involved in modulating the immune system, and maintaining a healthy immune system is important for overall health as we age.
Muscle Mass: Some individuals take DHEA supplements in the hope that it will help preserve or increase muscle mass, as age-related muscle loss is a common concern.
How should you take a DHEA supplement to maximize the benefits?
Dosage:
- The recommended dosage of DHEA varies, but it typically ranges from 25 to 50 milligrams per day. It’s crucial to start with the lowest effective dose and gradually increase if necessary.
- For men and women, the optimal dose can differ. Men may generally require higher doses due to their larger body size and hormonal balance, but individual needs vary.
Timing:
- It is often recommended to take DHEA in the morning with food. Morning is when your body’s natural production of DHEA is highest.
- Taking it with food can help improve absorption and reduce the risk of stomach discomfort.
Duration:
- DHEA supplementation is typically not recommended for long-term use, as it can affect hormone balance over time. Short-term use is often preferred.
Monitoring:
- Regular monitoring of hormone levels, especially DHEA-sulfate (DHEA-S) and sex hormones like testosterone and estrogen, is essential for taking DHEA supplements. This helps to avoid potential imbalances or side effects.
What are the risks of taking a DHEA supplement?
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a hormone that the body naturally produces, and when used as a supplement, it can have both potential benefits and risks. Here are some of the risks associated with taking DHEA:
Hormonal Imbalances: DHEA is a precursor to other hormones, including testosterone and estrogen. Taking DHEA supplements can lead to imbalances in these hormones, potentially resulting in symptoms such as acne, changes in mood, or unwanted hair growth. These imbalances can also affect overall health.
Cardiovascular Risks: Some studies have suggested that DHEA supplementation may increase the risk of heart disease, particularly in people with risk factors for heart problems.
Liver Health: High doses of DHEA may stress the liver, potentially leading to liver problems in some individuals.
Hair Loss: In some people, DHEA supplements can lead to hair loss or male pattern baldness.
Androgenic Effects: DHEA is an androgen, which means it can have masculinizing effects. Women taking DHEA may experience side effects such as deepening of the voice, facial hair growth, or changes in menstrual patterns.
Psychological Effects: DHEA supplements have been linked to mood changes, including increased irritability and aggression.
Interactions: DHEA can interact with certain medications, including anticoagulants, insulin, and medications that affect hormone balance. These interactions can have significant health consequences.
Long-Term Effects: The long-term effects of DHEA supplementation are not well-understood, and its use beyond the short-term is not recommended due to the potential risks.
Not Suitable for Everyone: Some individuals should not take DHEA supplements at all, including those with hormone-sensitive conditions, such as breast cancer, prostate cancer, or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
Should DHEA be taken every day?
The use of DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) supplements and the frequency of intake should be determined based on an individual’s specific health needs and in consultation with a healthcare provider. Whether DHEA should be taken every day can vary depending on the following factors:
Health Goals: The frequency of DHEA supplementation often depends on the individual’s health goals. Some people may use it short-term to address specific health concerns, while others may use it as part of a longer-term hormone replacement therapy (HRT) regimen.
Dosage: The recommended dosage of DHEA can differ among individuals, and it’s typically in the range of 25 to 50 milligrams per day. Some may require higher doses, depending on their specific health needs.
Monitoring: Regular monitoring of hormone levels, including DHEA, testosterone, and estrogen, is essential while taking DHEA supplements. This helps ensure that the supplementation does not lead to imbalances in the body.
Short-Term vs. Long-Term Use: DHEA is often not recommended for long-term use due to the risk of hormonal imbalances and other potential side effects. Short-term use is generally favored, particularly when addressing specific concerns.
Individual Health Status: The appropriateness of taking DHEA every day also depends on an individual’s health status and hormone levels. Those with certain medical conditions or hormonal imbalances may require more frequent dosing, while others may not need daily supplementation.
Medical Guidance: It is crucial to consult with a healthcare provider to determine the appropriate frequency and duration of DHEA supplementation based on your specific health needs and hormone levels.
What happens when you start taking DHEA?
Here are some potential effects of starting DHEA supplementation:
Hormonal Changes: DHEA is a precursor to other hormones, including testosterone and estrogen. When you begin DHEA supplementation, it can lead to changes in hormone levels. This may result in improved hormone balance or potential imbalances, depending on your specific health needs.
Mood and Energy: Some individuals report increased energy levels and improved mood when taking DHEA. However, the psychological effects can vary, and not everyone experiences these benefits.
Libido: DHEA is sometimes associated with increased libido or improved sexual function in both men and women.
Physical Changes: In some individuals, DHEA supplementation may lead to physical changes, including increased muscle mass and improved muscle tone. It can also result in potential side effects, such as acne or unwanted hair growth.
Bone Health: DHEA may have a positive impact on bone density and reduce the risk of osteoporosis in older individuals.
Cognitive Function: Some research suggests that DHEA may play a role in cognitive function and memory.
Aging and Skin Health: DHEA is sometimes used as an anti-aging supplement due to its potential effects on skin health and the aging process.
How quickly does DHEA start working?
The time it takes for DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) to start working can vary from person to person and depends on several factors, including the individual’s health status, the specific health concerns being addressed, and the dosage used. Here are some general guidelines:
Short-Term Effects: Some people may experience short-term effects of DHEA supplementation relatively quickly, within a few days to a few weeks. These effects can include increased energy, improved mood, and enhanced libido.
Hormonal Changes: Changes in hormone levels, if they occur, may take some time to become noticeable. DHEA is a precursor to other hormones like testosterone and estrogen. It can influence hormone balance, but the full effects on hormone levels might not be evident until after a few weeks or months of consistent supplementation.
Physical Changes: Physical changes, such as improved muscle tone or changes in body composition, may take longer to become apparent and are often seen after several weeks to months of use.
Long-Term Benefits: Many of the potential benefits of DHEA, especially those related to bone health or age-related conditions, may take several months to become noticeable.
Why does DHEA make me feel so good?
Here are some reasons why DHEA may make some individuals feel good:
Hormone Balance: DHEA can influence hormone balance, and optimizing hormone levels is closely linked to mood and overall well-being. Balanced hormone levels, including testosterone and estrogen, are associated with positive mood and emotional stability.
Energy Levels: DHEA can boost energy levels and combat feelings of fatigue or lethargy. This increased energy can contribute to an overall sense of well-being and vitality.
Stress Response: DHEA is sometimes referred to as the “anti-stress” hormone because it can help the body respond to stress more effectively. By supporting the stress response system, DHEA may reduce the impact of stress on mood and mental well-being.
Libido and Sexual Function: DHEA is often associated with increased libido and improved sexual function in both men and women. Enhanced sexual well-being can contribute to an improved overall sense of happiness and contentment.
Cognitive Function: Some people report enhanced cognitive function and memory when using DHEA. Improved mental clarity and cognitive performance can positively impact mood and overall well-being.
Does DHEA help you lose weight?
DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is sometimes associated with weight management and may have some influence on body composition. However, the relationship between DHEA and weight loss is complex, and the effects can vary from person to person. Here are some key points to consider:
Metabolism: DHEA is involved in the regulation of metabolism, and it can affect the way the body processes and stores energy. Some individuals report improved metabolic function with DHEA supplementation, potentially leading to changes in body weight and composition.
Muscle Mass: DHEA may support the development of lean muscle mass. An increase in muscle can contribute to a higher resting metabolic rate, which may help with weight management.
Appetite and Food Intake: Some people report reduced appetite and cravings when taking DHEA, which can indirectly support weight management efforts by making it easier to adhere to a healthy diet.
Stress Reduction: DHEA is sometimes referred to as the “anti-stress” hormone because it can help the body respond to stress more effectively. Stress management is essential for weight control, as chronic stress can lead to weight gain.
Can DHEA cause weight gain?
The relationship between DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) and weight gain is complex and not entirely straightforward. DHEA is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, and its impact on body weight can vary from person to person. Here are some key points to consider:
Metabolism: DHEA is involved in the regulation of metabolism, and some people may report a boost in metabolic function when supplementing with DHEA. This can potentially lead to weight loss or a reduction in weight gain.
Lean Muscle Mass: DHEA may support the development of lean muscle mass. An increase in muscle can lead to an improved body composition, which may result in weight maintenance or even weight loss.
Appetite and Food Intake: Some individuals have reported that DHEA supplementation reduced appetite and cravings, which could indirectly help with weight management.
Hormone Balance: DHEA can influence the balance of other hormones, including testosterone and estrogen. Hormone imbalances can sometimes lead to changes in body weight. For example, an imbalance that favors increased estrogen levels may contribute to weight gain, especially around the hips and thighs.
What supplements work synergistically with DHEA?
Here are some supplements that are commonly mentioned in the context of DHEA:
Pregnenolone: Pregnenolone is a hormone that is sometimes used alongside DHEA. It can influence hormone balance and may be taken with DHEA to support overall hormonal health.
Testosterone Support Supplements: DHEA can be converted into both estrogen and testosterone. Some individuals use DHEA alongside supplements designed to support healthy testosterone levels.
Adaptogens: Adaptogenic herbs like ashwagandha, Rhodiola, and ginseng may complement DHEA by helping the body adapt to stress and maintain hormonal balance.
Vitamin and Mineral Supplements: Nutrients like vitamin D, magnesium, and zinc are important for hormonal health. Ensuring you have adequate levels of these nutrients can support the effectiveness of DHEA.
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Some individuals may use DHEA in combination with prescribed hormone replacement therapy to balance hormone levels more effectively.
Anti-Inflammatory Supplements: Supplements with anti-inflammatory properties, such as omega-3 fatty acids (fish oil) or curcumin, may help support overall health and reduce inflammation, which can impact hormonal balance.
Stress Management Supplements: Stress-reducing supplements like L-theanine, GABA, and melatonin may be used in conjunction with DHEA to promote relaxation and balance the stress response system.
How should you choose the best DHEA supplement?
Here are some key factors to consider when selecting a DHEA supplement:
Quality and Purity: Look for reputable brands that provide high-quality, pharmaceutical-grade DHEA supplements. Ensure that the product is free from contaminants and meets quality control standards.
Dosage: Determine the appropriate dosage for your specific needs. The optimal dosage can vary from person to person, so consult with a healthcare provider for personalized recommendations.
Form: DHEA supplements come in various forms, including capsules, tablets, creams, and gels. Choose the form that is most convenient for you and that aligns with your healthcare provider’s recommendations.
Bioavailability: Consider the bioavailability of the DHEA supplement. Some formulations, such as DHEA-sulfate (DHEA-S) or micronized DHEA, may offer improved absorption compared to standard DHEA.
Certifications: Check if the product has been independently tested by a third-party organization for quality and purity. Look for certifications such as USP (United States Pharmacopeia) or NSF (National Sanitation Foundation).
Ingredients: Review the product’s ingredient list to ensure it does not contain unnecessary additives or fillers. Opt for supplements with minimal and clean ingredients.
Individual Health Needs: Consult with a healthcare provider to determine whether DHEA supplementation is appropriate for your health goals and needs. They can provide personalized advice based on your specific health status.
Potential Interactions: Be aware of potential interactions with medications or health conditions. Discuss your plans to take DHEA with your healthcare provider to ensure it is safe and appropriate for you.
Manufacturer Reputation: Research the manufacturer’s reputation and history in the supplement industry. Look for companies with a track record of producing high-quality products.
Reviews and Testimonials: Read user reviews and testimonials to gain insights into the experiences of others who have used the specific DHEA supplement. This can provide valuable information about its effectiveness and any potential side effects.
Price: While price is a consideration, don’t base your decision solely on cost. Focus on quality and effectiveness. Some lower-priced supplements may not meet high-quality standards.
How do I know if DHEA is working?
Here are some general guidelines to help assess the effectiveness of DHEA supplementation:
Consult Your Healthcare Provider: First and foremost, discuss your goals for taking DHEA with a healthcare provider. They can help determine appropriate dosages and set realistic expectations for the results you can achieve.
Set Clear Health Goals: Clearly define your health goals for taking DHEA. Are you looking to address hormonal imbalances, support energy levels, improve mood, or address other specific concerns? Setting clear objectives will help you assess whether DHEA is effective.
Regular Monitoring: If you’re taking DHEA to address a specific health issue, work with your healthcare provider to establish a monitoring plan. This might involve regular blood tests to check hormone levels or other relevant markers. Changes in these levels can indicate whether DHEA is having an impact.
Symptom Improvement: Pay attention to any symptoms you were experiencing before starting DHEA supplementation. Track changes in your energy levels, mood, libido, or other specific concerns. If you notice improvements in these areas, it can be a sign that DHEA is working.
Patience: Hormonal changes often take time to manifest noticeable effects. Be patient and consistent with your supplementation, as it may take several weeks or even months to see significant results.
Adjust Dosage as Needed: Work closely with your healthcare provider to fine-tune the dosage of DHEA based on your progress. Sometimes, adjustments in dosage may be necessary to achieve optimal results.
Consider Health Metrics: In addition to how you feel, look at any relevant health metrics, such as hormone levels or other markers that your healthcare provider is monitoring. These metrics can provide objective data on DHEA’s impact.
Holistic Assessment: Remember that the effectiveness of DHEA should be assessed within the context of your overall health and well-being. A holistic assessment, considering various aspects of your health, can help you determine if DHEA is contributing to your overall wellness.
What does DHEA do for a woman?
Here are some of the roles and potential benefits of DHEA for women:
Hormone Precursor: DHEA is a precursor to other hormones, including estrogen and testosterone. It helps maintain a balanced hormonal environment in the body, which is essential for overall health.
Menopause Support: DHEA levels tend to decline as women age, particularly during perimenopause and menopause. Some women use DHEA supplements to help alleviate symptoms associated with hormonal imbalances during this life stage, such as hot flashes, mood swings, and decreased libido.
Bone Health: DHEA has been associated with improved bone density. Adequate DHEA levels may help support bone health and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
Cognitive Function: DHEA may play a role in cognitive function and mood regulation. Some women report improved mood and mental clarity with DHEA supplementation.
Libido and Sexual Health: Balanced hormonal levels, including DHEA, are important for sexual health and desire. DHEA may have a positive impact on libido and sexual well-being in some women.
Energy and Well-Being: DHEA is sometimes associated with increased energy and an overall sense of well-being. It can contribute to higher energy levels and improved mood.
Ashley Sutphin Watkins
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