The Science (Simplified)

• What is DHEA?
  DHEA is made mostly in the adrenal glands. It’s a “precursor” hormone—meaning your body can convert it into sex hormones like estrogen and testosterone.
• Why does it matter?
  DHEA peaks in early adulthood and declines steadily after age 30–40. By the time people reach their 70s or 80s, levels are only about 10–20% of what they were in youth. This drop is linked to age-related issues in bone, muscle, and joints.
• Connections to Musculoskeletal Health:
  1. Bone (Osteoporosis):
     • DHEA helps regulate bone remodeling.
     • It promotes osteoblasts (cells that build bone) and limits osteoclasts (cells that break bone down).
     • Lower DHEA = weaker bones and higher fracture risk.
  2. Muscle (Sarcopenia):
     • DHEA can be converted into testosterone and estrogen, both of which support muscle protein synthesis.
     • It also influences IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor 1), a hormone that helps build and maintain muscle.
     • Low DHEA = less muscle strength and mass.
  3. Joints (Osteoarthritis):
     • DHEA seems to have anti-inflammatory effects in joint cartilage.
     • It can slow down cartilage breakdown and may protect against degeneration.
     • Low DHEA = higher risk of inflammation and cartilage wear-and-tear.

Therapeutic Implications

• Supplementation with DHEA in some studies has improved bone density, muscle strength, and joint health in older adults.
• It may work best in postmenopausal women and older men where hormone decline is more pronounced.
• However, results aren’t entirely consistent—more research is needed on dose, duration, and long-term safety.

Takeaway

• DHEA is a key hormone that links aging with bone, muscle, and joint decline.
• Its drop with age contributes to osteoporosis, sarcopenia, and osteoarthritis.
• Supplementing DHEA looks promising for strengthening bones, maintaining muscle, and protecting joints.