DHEA and Pregnenolone Good Together
Q If DHEA and Pregnenolone provide similar benefits, what is the rationale for taking both rather than just one? Also, Pregnenolone is shown to have optimum benefits at 500 mg for arthritic problems. Is it worthwhile using this item if one can only afford to use 50 mg? Further, if you could take only one product, which would it be?
TM, New Orleans, LA
A Although levels of both DHEA and pregnenolone (PREG) decline with age, they have different characteristics that set them apart. Ultimately, you have to use your judgment based on your individual biochemistry, how you respond, what your goals are, etc. The most noticeable effects of DHEA are an increase in energy, an increased ability to cope with the stress and anxiety of everyday events, enhanced libido, fat loss and muscle gain (for some people), and a general sense of well being. Also, DHEA has powerful immune-enhancing effects. The recommended amounts for returning your levels to that of a young adult are 25 to 50 mg. PREG is considered the mother hormone of the adrenal glands because it is a precursor for all of the other adrenal hormones, including DHEA. The pathway and the production depend on the body's needs. At low doses, PREG has been shown to be a powerful memory enhancer (10-30 mg/day). On the other hand, at high doses (400-500 mg/day), PREG has been shown to have anti-inflammatory properties that can help with arthritic conditions. It also helps with energy levels, helps to balance hormonal levels, and may help to repair the myelin sheath which covers neurons in the central nervous system. We strongly recommend that you get your DHEA blood levels tested by your doctor or an independent lab to see where you stand. Then you can make a decision about whether you need to take DHEA and at what levels. If you do start on a program, it is advisable to check your levels after a few months and see what the difference is. From there on, you can fine tune the amount that you supplement with to fit your individual needs.
WB