Voel je je ondanks voldoende slaap vaak futloos, merk je dat je libido minder is dan voorheen, of ervaar je onverklaarbare stemmingswisselingen? Veel mensen schrijven deze klachten toe aan een drukke levensstijl of het natuurlijke verouderingsproces, maar de oorzaak kan dieper liggen. Een cruciale speler in je lichaam die vaak over het hoofd wordt gezien, is het hormoon DHEA. Dit krachtige steroïdhormoon, voornamelijk geproduceerd door de bijnieren, is een voorloper van zowel testosteron als oestrogeen en speelt een fundamentele rol in talloze fysiologische processen. De impact ervan reikt veel verder dan men vaak denkt. Het begrijpen van dit hormoon kan een sleutel zijn tot het herwinnen van je vitaliteit en algehele welzijn, en het aanpakken van symptomen die je dagelijkse leven beïnvloeden. De balans van DHEA is essentieel voor je energieniveau, je seksuele drang en zelfs de kracht van je immuunsysteem.

Table of contents

What is the function of the hormone DHEA?

DHEA, short for dehydroepiandrosterone, is a powerful steroid hormone produced primarily by the adrenal glands, although smaller amounts are also synthesised in the brain and skin. It is one of the most abundant circulating steroid hormones in the human body and serves as a crucial precursor to other important hormones, including testosterone and oestrogen. This means that the body can convert DHEA into these sex hormones, which play essential roles in numerous physiological processes. The regulation of DHEA production is complex and is controlled by the hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axis, an intricate hormonal signalling system that helps coordinate the body's response to stress, energy demands, and overall hormonal balance.

Peak DHEA production occurs between the ages of 20 and 30

DHEA has a wide-ranging influence on many aspects of health, including energy levels, libido, immune function, and even mood. It also contributes to the maintenance of muscle mass and bone density and plays a role in cognitive functions such as memory and concentration. DHEA levels typically reach their peak between the ages of 20 and 30, after which they gradually decline as part of the natural ageing process. This age-related decrease may contribute to a variety of symptoms associated with ageing, which is one reason why DHEA has attracted considerable interest within the field of longevity and preventive medicine. Monitoring DHEA levels can provide valuable insights into overall hormonal balance and may help identify factors that influence long-term vitality and wellbeing.

How are your adrenal glands affected by stress?

Your adrenal glands are small but vital organs located on top of the kidneys. They play a key role in your stress response, energy levels, and overall hormonal balance. When you experience stress—whether physical, mental, or emotional—the adrenal glands respond by producing hormones such as cortisol and DHEA. Cortisol helps prepare the body for the "fight-or-flight" response, enabling you to cope with immediate challenges. DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone), on the other hand, serves as a precursor to important hormones such as testosterone and oestrogen, both of which are essential for overall health and wellbeing. Maintaining a healthy balance between these hormones is crucial. When stress becomes chronic and hormone production becomes dysregulated, it can affect energy, mood, immune function, and long-term hormonal health.

DHEA influences energy levels, mental wellbeing, and immune resilience

Prolonged or chronic stress can place a significant burden on the adrenal glands, potentially disrupting the production of both DHEA and cortisol. In the early stages of ongoing stress, the adrenal glands may increase cortisol production to help the body cope with increased demands. Over time, however, this balance can become disrupted. As a result, DHEA levels may decline, which can affect energy levels, mental wellbeing, and immune function. Lower DHEA levels have been associated with symptoms such as persistent fatigue, mood changes, reduced libido, and difficulty concentrating. These symptoms may reflect the body's response to long-term stress and the impact that chronic activation of the stress-response system can have on overall hormonal balance and wellbeing.

Why is hormone production essential?

Hormone production is fundamental to virtually every biological process in the body. Hormones act as chemical messengers, coordinating and regulating a wide range of vital functions. They help control metabolism, growth and development, while also exerting a profound influence on mood, sleep patterns, and immune function. Without adequate hormone production, communication between cells and organs becomes disrupted, potentially leading to a cascade of physiological imbalances that can negatively affect overall health and wellbeing. Symptoms such as fatigue, mood changes, poor concentration, and reduced vitality can often be linked to disturbances in hormonal function. For this reason, maintaining a healthy hormonal balance is essential for optimal health, resilience, and long-term wellbeing.

The “cortisol steal” effect prioritises cortisol production from pregnenolone

Hormones are produced by specialised glands throughout the body, including the adrenal glands, which produce DHEA. DHEA serves as an important precursor—or building block—for other hormones, including testosterone and oestrogen. These complex biochemical pathways allow the body to adapt to both internal and external influences, such as stress, ageing, illness, and changes in lifestyle, all of which can affect hormone levels. One concept often discussed in this context is the "cortisol steal" effect, whereby the body may prioritise the production of stress hormones such as cortisol during periods of prolonged stress. This can influence the availability of hormonal precursors such as pregnenolone, potentially affecting the production of other hormones further down the pathway. Even relatively small disruptions in hormone production can have wide-ranging effects on energy levels, muscle strength, libido, mood, and overall wellbeing. Understanding and addressing these imbalances is an important part of maintaining long-term vitality and healthy ageing.

What are the symptoms of a hormonal deficiency?

A hormonal deficiency, such as low DHEA levels, can present with a variety of symptoms that may significantly affect daily functioning and quality of life. One of the most common complaints is persistent fatigue, even after adequate sleep, which may be linked to reduced energy production and impaired physiological resilience. You may also notice a decline in muscle strength and endurance, making physical activities feel more demanding than before. Mood-related symptoms are common as well, including irritability, reduced motivation, or low mood, reflecting the important role hormones play in regulating emotional wellbeing. These symptoms should not be dismissed, as they can be important signals that the body's hormonal balance may be compromised and warrant further evaluation.

Difficulty concentrating and reduced immune resilience associated with low DHEA

In addition to physical and emotional symptoms, you may also experience a reduced libido, which is a common sign of hormonal imbalance. Concentration and mental focus can become impaired, making it more difficult to stay productive, process information, or maintain attention on everyday tasks. Your immune resilience may also be affected, potentially leading to more frequent illnesses or a slower recovery from infections. While these symptoms can often seem vague and non-specific, they may reflect an underlying disruption in the body's hormonal systems. It is important not to ignore these signals. Identifying and addressing hormonal imbalances at an early stage may help prevent further health issues and support long-term wellbeing, vitality, and quality of life.

What impact does ageing have on your energy levels?

As you age, your body inevitably undergoes changes that can have a direct impact on your energy levels. One of the most important factors is the gradual decline in DHEA, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands. From around the age of 25 to 30, DHEA levels typically begin to decrease by approximately 1–2% per year, which can have a noticeable effect on overall vitality. While this decline is a natural part of the ageing process, its effects may be amplified by factors such as chronic stress, poor lifestyle habits, inadequate sleep, and certain medications. Many people notice these changes as reduced stamina, slower recovery after physical activity, and a general sense of fatigue or diminished resilience. Over time, these effects can influence both physical performance and overall wellbeing, making it increasingly important to support hormonal health as part of a healthy ageing strategy.

DHEA levels decline by an average of 1–2% per year after the age of 25–30

Declining DHEA levels contribute not only to reduced energy levels but also affect several other important physiological functions, including metabolism, immune function, and overall hormonal balance. DHEA serves as a precursor to both testosterone and oestrogen, hormones that play essential roles in maintaining muscle strength, bone density, mood, and overall vitality. As DHEA production decreases with age, the downstream production of these hormones may also be affected. As a result, some individuals may experience symptoms such as reduced muscle strength, lower mood, diminished libido, and decreased resilience—all of which can indirectly contribute to lower energy levels and a reduced sense of wellbeing. It is important to recognise that the effects of ageing on energy extend beyond DHEA alone. Rather, they reflect a complex interplay of hormonal, metabolic, and physiological changes that occur over time and collectively influence long-term health and vitality.

How does your hormonal balance affect your daily libido?

Your libido, or sexual desire, is strongly influenced by the delicate balance of your hormones, including DHEA. This hormone, produced primarily by the adrenal glands, serves as an important precursor to both testosterone and oestrogen—two key hormones involved in sexual desire and function. When DHEA levels are optimal, you are more likely to experience a healthy libido, along with adequate energy levels and a stable mood. However, when this balance becomes disrupted, it can lead to a noticeable decline in sexual interest, often accompanied by fatigue and mood changes. These effects can have a significant impact on daily wellbeing, quality of life, and overall vitality.

DHEA influences serotonin and contributes to stress resilience

The influence of DHEA extends beyond its role in hormone production alone, as it also plays a part in stress resilience and overall wellbeing. When DHEA levels are adequate, you may be better able to cope with stress, which can indirectly support libido, as chronic stress is a well-known inhibitor of sexual desire. DHEA also appears to influence serotonin activity in the brain, a neurotransmitter that plays an important role in mood regulation and feelings of wellbeing. A healthy DHEA status may therefore contribute to a more positive mental state, which in turn can support a healthy and active libido in everyday life.

When is it worth having your DHEA levels tested?

Having your DHEA levels tested may be worthwhile if you are experiencing unexplained symptoms that could be related to a hormonal imbalance. Common examples include persistent fatigue, reduced muscle strength, mood changes, or a low libido. These symptoms may indicate that DHEA production is not optimal. As DHEA serves as a precursor to important sex hormones such as testosterone and oestrogen, changes in DHEA levels can influence a wide range of physical and psychological functions. DHEA production naturally begins to decline after the age of 30, and for some individuals this reduction may contribute to symptoms that affect quality of life. Testing can provide valuable insight into your current hormonal status and help determine whether further evaluation or intervention may be appropriate.

Higher DHEA levels support muscle mass and post-exercise recovery

It may also be worthwhile to have your DHEA levels tested if you take a proactive approach to preventive healthcare and want to maintain your vitality over the long term. By gaining early insight into your DHEA levels, potential deficiencies can be identified before they contribute to more significant symptoms. This is particularly relevant for individuals experiencing high levels of stress, as chronic stress can affect adrenal gland function and may contribute to reduced DHEA production. With this information, and where appropriate in consultation with a healthcare professional, you can take a more targeted approach to optimising hormonal balance, supporting overall wellbeing, and promoting healthy ageing.

How to naturally boost your vitality

Natural vitality improvement involves a holistic approach that goes beyond simply suppressing symptoms; it focuses on addressing the underlying causes of reduced energy and well-being. This means paying attention to your lifestyle, nutrition, and mental health. An important aspect is optimising your sleep routine, as your body recovers during the night and produces essential hormones that play a key role in maintaining vitality. A balanced diet, rich in whole and unprocessed foods, is also crucial for maintaining stable blood sugar levels and providing sustained energy throughout the day, directly contributing to higher energy levels and overall well-being.

DHEA-S is the most stable marker for measuring DHEA levels.

In addition to sleep and nutrition, regular physical activity plays a fundamental role in improving your vitality. It stimulates circulation, enhances the delivery of oxygen to your cells, and promotes the production of endorphins, which have a positive effect on your mood. Effective stress management is equally important, as chronic stress can significantly impact your hormonal balance and deplete your energy reserves. Techniques such as meditation, mindfulness, or even simple breathing exercises can help reduce stress and naturally support your vitality, leaving you feeling more resilient both physically and mentally in everyday life.

What is the link between muscle strength and your hormones?

Your body is a complex network of interconnected systems, with hormones playing a central role in virtually every physiological function, including the development and maintenance of muscle strength. Hormones such as testosterone, growth hormone, and DHEA act as essential building blocks and regulators for muscle growth, recovery, and overall physical performance. Without an optimal hormonal balance, you may experience reduced muscle strength, slower recovery after exercise, and a general decline in vitality. These hormonal influences can be measured and have a significant impact on how efficiently your body builds and maintains muscle mass, making them a key factor in supporting a healthy and active life.

Seven to nine hours of quality sleep is crucial for DHEA recovery.

One of the most important hormones in this context is DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone), a steroid hormone produced primarily by the adrenal glands. DHEA functions as a precursor hormone, meaning it can be converted by the body into other essential hormones, such as testosterone and oestrogen. This conversion has a direct impact on your muscle strength and muscle mass. Healthy DHEA levels not only support the production of anabolic hormones that promote muscle growth, but also contribute to higher energy levels and faster recovery, enabling you to train more effectively and maximise your physical potential.

How can you maintain a healthy balance for the future?

Maintaining a healthy balance for the future requires a proactive approach to your well-being, one that focuses not only on the present but also on anticipating the changes that come with time. This means being aware of the signals your body gives you and being willing to respond to them. An important part of this is understanding your hormonal balance, as hormones such as DHEA play a crucial role in your overall vitality and resilience. By gaining insight into your hormonal health, you create a strong foundation for long-term wellness, helping to improve your quality of life both now and in the years ahead.

Periodic DHEA-S measurements can provide insight into long-term vitality patterns

Ultimately, the goal is to create a sustainable lifestyle that supports both physical and mental health, enabling you to function at your best throughout life. This involves a combination of healthy nutrition, regular physical activity, adequate sleep, and effective stress management, supplemented by targeted interventions when appropriate. It is also important to recognise that the body is constantly changing, and what works well today may need adjustment in the future. By regularly monitoring your health and adapting your approach over time—including, where clinically relevant, tracking markers such as DHEA-S levels—you can gain valuable insights into long-term vitality patterns and overall hormonal health. This proactive approach can help optimise energy levels, libido, resilience, and overall wellbeing, supporting healthy ageing and helping you maintain independence and quality of life in the years ahead.

Conclusion

Je weet nu dat DHEA een vitaal hormoon is, geproduceerd door de bijnieren, dat fungeert als bouwsteen voor andere hormonen en onmisbaar is voor je energie, libido en algehele welzijn. De afname van DHEA door veroudering en de impact van stress op je bijnieren kunnen leiden tot diverse klachten, van vermoeidheid en stemmingswisselingen tot een verminderde weerstand. Het handhaven van een gezonde DHEA-spiegel is daarom essentieel voor je vitaliteit in 2026 en daarna. Als je vermoedt dat een disbalans in je hormoonhuishouding de oorzaak is van je klachten, is het tijd voor actie. Neem vandaag nog contact op met IKARIA Clinics voor een persoonlijk consult en ontdek hoe we je kunnen ondersteunen bij het optimaliseren van je hormoonbalans.