Hormones · Adrenal output
Men Women (soon)
DHEA-S(DHEA-S)
DHEA-S reflects adrenal androgen output. Declines steadily with age — a low DHEA-S in a younger man often points to chronic stress or adrenal suppression.
Optimal range
300–400µg/dL
Clinical "normal"
100–500 µg/dL
Avg. cost (US)
$65
Test frequency
Annually
When to measure
Any time of day, fasted preferred.
How to measure
Standard immunoassay.
Average cost
≈ $65 cash price. Often covered by insurance with relevant ICD-10.
Signs your level is off
Symptoms if low
Fatigue, immune weakness.
Symptoms if high
Acne, hair loss.
If your level is low
DHEA: estrogen conversion
Supplement
DHEA· 25-50 mg/day
Form: Transdermal cream
Precursor to adrenal hormones.
Foods
- Eggs
Lifestyle
- Strength training
Medication (if prescribed)
DHEA (Rx)· 25 mg/day
Form: Oral tablet
Reference only. Speak with a licensed clinician before any prescription intervention.
Caution: DHEA: estrogen conversion
If your level is high
Saw Palmetto: libido
Supplement
Saw Palmetto· 320 mg/day
Form: Extract
Reduces androgen excess.
Foods
- High-carb diet
Lifestyle
- Balanced diet
Medication (if prescribed)
Finasteride· 1 mg/day
Form: Oral tablet
Reference only. Speak with a licensed clinician before any prescription intervention.
Caution: Saw Palmetto: libido
Test these together
These biomarkers contextualize DHEA-S and unlock a clearer picture than any single value can.
Protocols that move this marker
Selected studies
AGING 2023 PubMed
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