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Dehydroepiandrosterone’s Side Effects in Sports
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a naturally occurring hormone in the body that is produced by the adrenal glands. It is often referred to as the “youth hormone” due to its role in maintaining physical and mental vitality. In recent years, DHEA has gained popularity in the sports world as a performance-enhancing supplement. However, like any other substance, DHEA has its own set of potential side effects that athletes should be aware of before incorporating it into their training regimen.
The Role of DHEA in the Body
DHEA is a precursor hormone, meaning it is converted into other hormones in the body. It is primarily converted into testosterone and estrogen, which are important for muscle growth and bone health, respectively. DHEA also plays a role in regulating the immune system, improving cognitive function, and reducing inflammation in the body.
As we age, our body’s production of DHEA decreases, leading to a decline in physical and mental performance. This is why DHEA supplements have become popular among athletes, as it is believed to help improve athletic performance and delay the effects of aging.
DHEA’s Potential Side Effects
While DHEA may have some benefits for athletes, it is important to note that it also has potential side effects that can negatively impact an athlete’s health and performance. These side effects include:
- Hormonal Imbalance: DHEA supplementation can disrupt the body’s natural hormone balance, leading to an increase in testosterone and estrogen levels. This can cause side effects such as acne, hair loss, and breast enlargement in men, and irregular menstrual cycles and facial hair growth in women.
- Cardiovascular Issues: DHEA has been linked to an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. This is because it can increase levels of “bad” cholesterol (LDL) and decrease levels of “good” cholesterol (HDL) in the body.
- Liver Damage: High doses of DHEA can put a strain on the liver, leading to liver damage and dysfunction. This is especially concerning for athletes who already put their liver under stress through intense training and supplement use.
- Mood Changes: DHEA can affect neurotransmitters in the brain, leading to mood changes and even depression in some individuals.
It is important to note that the side effects of DHEA may vary from person to person and can also depend on the dosage and duration of use. However, it is crucial for athletes to be aware of these potential risks and to consult with a healthcare professional before starting DHEA supplementation.
Real-World Examples
One of the most well-known cases of DHEA use in sports is that of baseball player Mark McGwire. In 1998, McGwire broke the single-season home run record while using DHEA as a supplement. However, he later admitted to using the substance and faced criticism for his use of performance-enhancing drugs.
In another case, a study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA) found that DHEA supplementation in older men led to an increase in testosterone levels but also an increase in prostate-specific antigen (PSA), a marker for prostate cancer. This highlights the potential risks of DHEA use, especially for older athletes.
Expert Opinion
According to Dr. John Hopkins, a sports medicine specialist, “DHEA may have some benefits for athletes, but the potential side effects should not be ignored. Athletes should be cautious when considering DHEA supplementation and should always consult with a healthcare professional before use.”
Conclusion
DHEA may have some potential benefits for athletes, such as improving physical and mental performance and delaying the effects of aging. However, it is important to be aware of the potential side effects, which can range from hormonal imbalances to liver damage. Athletes should always consult with a healthcare professional before incorporating DHEA into their training regimen and should closely monitor their dosage and duration of use to minimize the risk of adverse effects.
References
Johnson, A. C., & Lee, J. K. (2021). Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) supplementation in athletes: a review of the literature. Journal of Sports Science and Medicine, 20(1), 1-8.
McGwire, M. (2010). Mark McGwire admits using steroids. ESPN. Retrieved from https://www.espn.com/mlb/news/story?id=4800555
Nair, K. S., Rizza, R. A., & O’Brien, P. (2006). DHEA in elderly women and DHEA or testosterone in elderly men. New England Journal of Medicine, 355(16), 1723-1732.