A Study by J Geriatr has shown that Testosterone was effective in improving mood and reducing Depression.2

Another study has shown that Testosterone increases bone mineral density of spine and hip, fat-free mass, prostate volume, erythropoiesis, energy and sexual function.3

According to the Diabetes Care, April 2000, low Testosterone levels play some role in the development of insulin resistance and subsequent Type 2 diabetes.4

According to the Journal of American Heart Association 10-17-2000, Testosterone acts like a vasodilator and increases feeling of well-being.5

In women, natural testosterone supplementation in the form of cream, troche, or capsule is often used with other deficient hormones. Your doctor will determine the correct dose to minimise any side effects like a deep voice, facial hair, or acne, These symptoms will subside upon adjustment of the dosage. 6

DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone)

DHEA is one of the most important hormones produced by the adrenal glands. DHEA is converted into estrogens and testosterone according to the needs of the body. It occupies a central position in the steroid hierarchy. It is believed to influence metabolism, energy output, endocrine mechanisms and reproductive capabilities. DHEA is utilised to manufacture several other steroid hormones. It is the most dominant of all these hormones and contributes to the proper growth of brain cells, inhibits the conversion of carbohydrates to fats and is believed to lower blood pressure. Receptors have been found on cells, indicating DHEA has a role in a variety of biochemical actions.

DHEA plays a role in numerous biological functions. It has the ability to: 7

• Regulate hormones
• Lower blood pressure
• Increase estrogens in women and testosterone in men to youthful levels
• Lower blood serum cholesterol (LDL)
• Helps to reduce menopausal symptoms
• Promotes thermogenesis (fat burning)
• Stabilises blood sugar
• Boosts endurance
• Fights fatigue and depression
• Improves calcium absorption which discourages oesteoporosis

We are beginning to understand the benefits of DHEA and Women:

• Women with breast cancer have been found to have low levels of DHEA.
• When laboratory rats were given DHEA prior to being exposed to a potent carcinogen, they became cancer-free.8

The Department of Medicine at John Hopkins University reported in 1988 that increased levels of DHEA can stop the progression of atherosclerosis and reduce the risk of death from cardiovascular-related diseases. It specifically lowers LDL cholesterol which is the kind we don’t want.

One of the most dramatic actions of DHEA to be seen is the ability to prevent the storage of lipids (fats). Apparently DHEA helps to boost the changing of body fat to lean muscle, a process that becomes less effective as we age.
DHEA also appears to decrease the desire to eat. One study found that DHEA increased serotonin levels in the brain which resulted in less food craving.