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DHEA for Bodybuilding
The benefits of DHEA supplements
DHEA (dehydro-epi-androsterone) is a natural steroid hormone that is produced by the adrenal glands. It is the most abundant and common steroid in our bodies and is often referred to as the "Mother Hormone" and by some scientists as the "Fountain of Youth". DHEA is a precursor for the manufacturing of up to 50 hormones produced by the adrenals. It directly affects the production of all other critical hormones in the body including testosterone, estrogen, progesterone and cortisone. The body produces DHEA and then converts it, on demand, to these other important regulating hormones.
Natural production peaks between 20-25 years of age. By age 80, the body is only producing 5% of youthful levels. Previously it was believed that only older adults could benefit from DHEA. Research now indicates that adults under 30 which endure regular stress due to work, school, personal obligations or bodybuilding type training can stand to benefit form DHEA supplementation. Stress of all types lowers DHEA levels in all age groups. Many researchers now feel that the way to combat chronic disease and aging is to keep DHEA near normal production for the age 25.
So what exactly are the benefits? This is what over 2500 published research papers are indicating. It reduces body fat which increasing lean body composition (helps build more muscle). It improves overall mood and feelings of contentment. Many forms of depression coincide with low levels of DHEA. Studies done with depressed patients report and increased feeling of well being. It protects the body from cancer, chronic fatigue, high cholesterol and diabetes. DHEA has been shown to be a protein anti-tumor and anti-cancer hormone. People with higher DHEA levels have significantly lower incidence of cancer. It protests the body from cardiovascular disease. A 48% reduction in cardiovascular disease was reported in a recent study at the University of California School of Medicine. Dr. Conner's conclusion: "DHEA seems to protect against early death from any cause". It protects the body from AIDS and boosts the immune system. DHEA has been shown to increase the ability of T-cells to do their job of fighting disease. Hundreds of studies are being completed and the positive results are consistently coming in. This may be the most powerful single agent that you can take on a daily basis for strength, vigor and a youthful glow.
The experts agree that 50 mg for men and 25 mg for women on a daily basis is extremely safe. You can go in and get a blood test to see exactly where your levels are at but most physicians feel that these dosages will bring your DHEA back to average peak levels. Now, too much of a good thing, even DHEA, has some side effects. Leave it to muscle-hungry athletes to test the limits. Many bodybuilders have reported taking between 250 mg to 2000 mg per day. At these high dosages there have been reports of acne, excessive facial hair, oily skin, mood changes and aggressiveness. Sounds like the same nasty side effects from steroids. Too much testosterone in the blood stream, from any source, is not a good thing. Plus the muscle-building, fat-reducing benefits at these levels were not any more significant than at 50 mg per day and certainly much healthier and safer.
Our experiences? 50 mg is an adequate dose for the muscle enhancement that our trainees are looking for. More dramatic is the fat loss and increase in energy that is quickly realized. You just can't be in a bad mood on this stuff. There is also an increase in mental alertness with many trainees reporting being able to concentrate for longer periods of time and focus on their training as well. It takes approximately one month to feel the full effects but we see the fat losing benefits and increase in energy almost immediately.
For more information on what bodybuilding supplements work and which ones are a waste of money, checkout our Bodybuilding Supplement Handbook. This guide reviews the most effective muscle-building supplements. It's a complete resource, which explains exact dosages, timing and effects of specific nutrients. Best of all you can get it FREE when you download our Matrix Mass Training Manual.
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Disclaimer: This information presented is intended to be used for educational purposes only. The statements made have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration (U.S.). These products are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any condition or disease. Please consult with your own physician or health care practitioner regarding any suggestions and recommendations made.
