DHEA25 (also known as Dehydroepiandrosterone) is a hormone that some lifters take in supplement form. Bodybuilders specifically may take DHEA25 to help them build muscle or maintain muscle while losing body fat. After all, the hormone is linked to testosterone production, so taking extra DHEA, it’s thought, will help improve the production of testosterone.

But here’s the thing, nothing will help you carve out your dream physique if your diet and training program aren’t in check. Assuming you’ve got those two things under control, then keep reading on whether DHEA can help you reach your physique-related goals.

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is the second-most abundant circulating steroid in humans, and it serves as the primary precursor for other hormones such as testosterone and estrogens. DHEA is made in the adrenal glands, but the testes, ovaries, and other organs can also produce smaller amounts.

Your DHEA production begins at puberty, peaks around age 20, and starts to decline rapidly when you’re about 25. By the time you’re 75, the amount of DHEA in your bloodstream will be 80% lower than it was when you were 25. Production of testosterone and estrogen also slow down as a result. These changes all play a role in age-related losses of muscle mass and bone density and could also contribute to cognitive decline (like memory and mood).
DHEA plays many roles in the body, from regulating inflammation to insulin sensitization and muscle growth.

Some athletes and bodybuilders also take dehydroepiandrosterone (an anabolic steroid) to increase muscle mass and strength. Serious side-effects from taking manufactured dehydroepiandrosterone have been reported and it is banned by the World Anti-Doping Agency. However, exercise and calorie-restriction have been shown to increase natural dehydroepiandrosterone levels in the body and may lead to longer life.

DHEA levels in our blood are crucial for many hormonal and metabolic functions in our body. As we age, we produce less and less DHEA and as a result our blood DHEA level gets lower and lower. This may make us gain more body fat, dry our skin, decrease sex drive, and affect our memory. When adding or supplementing DHEA to our bodies when our blood DHEA levels are low, we can improve these problems and may be able to live longer lives.