DHEA (7AM - 9AM)

Elevated levels of DHEA may reflect endogenous exposure and supplementation. Other considerations include Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS,) adrenal hyperplasia and adrenal tumors. General recommendations include overall control of the cortisol response, HPA axis support using nutrition, adaptogens, and behavioral modification.

Lower levels of DHEA are seen with advancing age and have been associated with immune dysregulation, cardiovascular disease, arthritis, osteoporosis, insomnia, declining cognition, depression, fatigue, and decreased libido.

A pattern showing one or more elevated cortisol levels in the presence of decreased DHEA is clinically significant.

Elevated cortisol with decreased DHEA suggests adrenal hyperfunction of the zona fasciculata (the primary source of cortisol) with a decreased function of the zona reticularis (the primary source of DHEA). This presentation represents a significant shift of steroidogenesis in favor of cortisol, and away from DHEA. In such a shift, there is frequently decreased aldosterone production as well. This shift may present in the presence of increased physiological or psychological stress and/or dysglycemia.

DHEA is a hormone produced by both the adrenal gland and the brain. DHEA leads to the production of androgens and estrogens. DHEA levels in the body begin to decrease after age 30. Levels decrease more quickly in women.