DHEA-S
Dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate — the most abundant steroid hormone and a precursor to both testosterone and estrogen.
Optimal Range
200-400 μg/dL (age-adjusted optimal)
Risk-Stratified Targets
| Population / Context | Target |
|---|---|
| Youthful optimal (age 25–35) | 300–500 μg/dL |
| Age-adjusted optimal (age 40–60) | 200–400 μg/dL |
| Low (warrants investigation)Consider adrenal insufficiency, chronic stress, or aging | < 150 μg/dL |
| Very lowAssociated with increased mortality risk | < 80 μg/dL |
Why It Matters
DHEA-S declines steadily with age and is considered a biomarker of adrenal aging. Low levels correlate with increased mortality, immune dysfunction, and loss of vitality.
Understanding DHEA-S
DHEA-S (dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate) is the most abundant steroid hormone in the human body and serves as a precursor for the production of both testosterone and estrogen. Produced primarily by the adrenal glands, DHEA-S levels peak in the mid-20s and then decline steadily — by age 70–80, levels are typically only 10–20% of their youthful peak. This consistent, age-related decline has led researchers to view DHEA-S as one of the most reliable biomarkers of adrenal aging.
The clinical significance of DHEA-S extends beyond its role as a hormone precursor. Low DHEA-S levels have been associated with increased all-cause mortality, cardiovascular disease, impaired immune function, loss of bone density, decreased lean muscle mass, cognitive decline, and depression. Some researchers consider it a marker of overall physiological reserve — reflecting the body's capacity to respond to stress and maintain homeostasis.
DHEA supplementation is commonly used in longevity and anti-aging medicine, though the evidence for its benefits is mixed. In women, low-dose DHEA supplementation (25–50 mg/day) has shown benefits for bone density, libido, and vaginal health, particularly in postmenopausal women. In men, the benefits are less clear since testosterone (not DHEA) is typically the rate-limiting hormone. Monitoring DHEA-S alongside sex hormones helps create a complete picture of adrenal and gonadal health.