PLEASE READ BEFORE USING NATROL DHEA
Investigators interested in the biology of aging have increasingly focused their attention on the steroids dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and DHEA sulfate (DHEAS). When consumed, DHEA is metabolized in the liver, and a significant percentage is converted to DHEAS.
The interest in DHEA and DHEAS stems from observations that circulating levels of these hormones exert beneficial actions but exhibit a unique age-related decline. Therefore, some changes associated with aging are postulated to be due to a relative decline in circulating DHEA and DHEAS.
Secretion of DHEA from the adrenal cortex is very high in a fetus, drops sharply after birth to very low levels in childhood, rises again before puberty and reaches peak levels in young adulthood. It has been conclusively shown that during adulthood DHEA and DHEAS levels in both sexes decrease at a relatively constant rate of 2% per year. Hence, at age 80 levels are only about 20% of those at age 25.
At all ages, the interindividual variability is very high, and thus the normal range of serum levels is extensive. For example, one man at age 65 could have levels three times higher than another man of identical age.
SUPPLEMENTATION WITH DHEA:
The objective of supplementation with DHEA is to maintain levels approximating those occurring during early adulthood. However, excessive amounts of DHEA can have undesirable effects. Therefore, it is important to ensure that the amount of DHEA consumed is not excessive.
HAVE YOUR DHEA LEVEL MEASURED BEFORE USE:
In order to determine if supplementation is appropriate, and if appropriate, the amount to be consumed, DHEA levels should be measured by a physician. Following the commencement of DHEA supplementation, periodic testing of DHEA and DHEAS levels should be checked to ensure that the optimum level is being reached and to avoid ingestion of excessive amounts.
Warning: NOT FOR USE BY INDIVIDUALS UNDER THE AGE OF 18 YEARS. DO NOT USE IF PREGNANT OR NURSING. Consult a physician or licensed qualified health care professional before using this product if you have, or have a family history of, prostate cancer, prostate enlargement, heart disease, low “good” cholesterol (HDL), or if you are using any other dietary supplement, prescription drug, or over-the counter drug. Do not exceed recommended serving. Exceeding recommended serving may cause serious adverse health effects. Possible side effects include acne, hair loss, hair growth on the face (in women), aggressiveness, irritability, and increased levels of estrogen. Discontinue use and call a physician or licensed qualified health care professional immediately if you experience rapid heartbeat, dizziness, blurred vision, or other similar symptoms. KEEP OUT OF REACH OF CHILDREN.
