hormone produced by adrenal glands, precursor to sex hormones
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, which are located above the kidneys. It serves as a precursor to male and female sex hormones, including testosterone and estrogen. DHEA levels naturally decline with age and are sometimes supplemented to address various health issues, such as adrenal insufficiency, depression, and certain autoimmune diseases.