Male Low DHEA

What Does It Mean?

DHEA (Dehydroepiandrosterone) is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands and serves as a precursor to male sex hormones such as testosterone. Low DHEA levels in males can contribute to hormonal imbalances, fatigue, and reduced overall well-being. Common causes include:

Chronic stress and adrenal fatigue
Aging
Poor dietary and lifestyle choices
Endocrine dysfunction (e.g., hypogonadism)
Chronic illness or inflammation

How Did We Get There?

Diagnosis & Assessment

Patients with low DHEA may present with:

Fatigue and low energy levels
Decreased muscle mass and strength
Low libido
Depression or mood disturbances
Cognitive decline or brain fog
Weight gain and metabolic issues

Lab Test Findings

The following lab markers help diagnose low DHEA and assess its severity:

Lab Test	Expected Change	Optimal Range
DHEA Sulfate	Decreased in adrenal dysfunction	150.00-250.00 µg/dL
Iron, Total	May be altered in metabolic stress	85.00-130.00 µg/dL

How Do We Treat It?

Functional Medicine Approach

Treatment focuses on supporting adrenal function, optimizing hormonal balance, and addressing root causes of deficiency.

Supplement Protocol

Supplement	Function	Dosage & Frequency
DHEA 5 mg	Supports hormonal balance and adrenal function	5 tablets without food, daily

Additional Lifestyle Interventions:

Manage Stress: Implement relaxation techniques such as meditation and deep breathing
Adequate Sleep: Prioritize quality sleep to support adrenal function
Balanced Diet: Include healthy fats, protein, and micronutrients to support hormone production
Exercise: Engage in strength training and moderate cardiovascular exercise