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DHEA-sulfate, or dehydroepiandrosterone-sulfate, is an androgen produced by the adrenal gland. It is the most abundant steroid hormone in circulation. DHEA-sulfate plays a key role in the production of male and female sex hormones. (source, source)
Low serum DHEA levels result from physiological factors involving the adrenal glands, which are responsible for producing this hormone. Stress and aging affect adrenal function and contribute to decreased DHEA production. A diet lacking essential nutrients and healthy fats impacts adrenal health and DHEA synthesis. (source, source)
Potential Performance Impact:
Prioritize high-quality protein: Quality protein intake is associated with increased levels of DHEA-sulfate. (source) Consumption of protein, particularly from animal sources, is associated with increases in IGF-1, or insulin-like growth factor, a hormone that aids in the development of the portion of the adrenal gland responsible for DHEA production. DHEA is then converted to DHEA-sulfate, increasing levels in the body. (source)
Protocol: Eat 0.8 to 1.0 g of protein per pound of body weight per day. One serving examples: Eggs (3 large eggs), Chicken Breast (3.5 oz), Beef (lean cuts) (3.5 oz), Salmon (3 oz), Pork (lean cuts) (3.5 oz), Tofu (3.5 oz).
Perform breathwork and meditation: Those who meditate have higher DHEA-sulfate than their controls. (source) Research demonstrates that meditation modulates the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal axis, which stimulates the production of DHEA-sulfate. (source, source)
Protocol: Sit down and calmly focus on your breath while box breathing for up to five minutes.
Supplement with ashwagandha: Ashwagandha supplementation increases DHEA-sulfate levels. (source, source) Research indicates that ashwagandha primarily works by modulating the hypothalamus-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which stimulates the production of DHEA-sulfate. (source, source)
Protocol: Supplement with at least 240 mg of ashwagandha daily.
High serum DHEA levels are often linked to physiological factors related to adrenal gland function, as the adrenal glands produce DHEA. Lifestyle factors such as stress, lack of sleep, and excessive alcohol consumption influence DHEA levels. (source, source)
Potential Performance Impact:
Avoid alcohol: Alcohol consumption is associated with elevated DHEA-sulfate. (source, source) Alcohol stimulates the adrenal glands, increasing the production of DHEA, which is mostly converted to DHEA-sulfate. (source)
Protocol: Monitor alcohol intake. Try to limit consumption to one or two drinks daily, with the goal of less than three per week.
