7-Keto DHEA
One of the most important DHEA metabolites is 7-Keto DHEA (commonly referred to as 7-Keto). Unlike DHEA, 7-Keto does not convert to estrogen and testosterone. This provides increased utility that can be used for a myriad of adrenal and other health benefits without the same level of concern relative to feeding into the sex hormone pathways.
7-Keto is called 3-acetyl-7oxo-dehydroepiandrosterone, a naturally occurring metabolite primarily produced in the adrenal glands, skin and, to some degree, in the brain. Just like DHEA, 7-Keto peaks in our early 20’s and declines over time to about 50% by age 50. [1]
7-Keto is known to have beneficial effects on immune function. A four-week study of 7-Keto supplementation improved immune function in elderly men and women.[2] In the study, the group given 100 mg of 7-Keto twice daily had a significant decrease in immune suppressor cells and a significant increase in immune helper cells. There were also reductions in diastolic blood pressure and an increase in neutrophils.
It has also been used in clinical practice for its ability to support fat loss via thermogenesis. These pathways also support healthy triglyceride levels.
Morning and mid-afternoon dosing with 25 mg twice a day, then increasing as needed to higher dosages supports the natural bio-rhythm of the body and allows for support of balancing cortisol levels that are high in the morning and decline throughout the day. It is also noteworthy that 7-Keto can also help with Raynaud’s Syndrome.[3]
[1] Marenich LP.Excretion of testosterone, epitestosterone, androstenedione and 7-ketohydroepiandrostenedione in healthy men of different ages. Probl Endodrinol (Mosk). 1979 Jul;25(4):28-31
[2] Zenk JL, Kuskowski MA. The use of 3-acetyl-7-oxo-dehydroepiandrosterone for augmenting immune response in the elderly. Presented at meeting of FASEB, April 17, 2004.
[3] Ihler G, Chami-Stemann H. 7-oxo-DHEA and Raynaud’s phenomenon. Med Hypotheses. 2003 Mar;60(3):391-7
*The product information provided is for educational purposes and is not intended as either diagnosis or treatment of any disease, nor does it replace professional medical advice. (The FDA makes us say that)
*Warning: Please consult a health care professional before using this product.