7-keto-DHEA Usage, Dosage, Benefits, Side Effects and Other Relevant Details
Table of Content
Overview
7-Keto-DHEA is a natural chemical derived from DHEA, a hormone produced by the adrenal glands, which are located above the kidneys. When used as a supplement, 7-Keto-DHEA, unlike DHEA, has no direct effect on the synthesis of steroid hormones such as androgen and estrogen. Individuals frequently utilize 7-Keto-DHEA to boost metabolism and promote heat generation in order to aid in weight reduction. It is also used to increase lean body mass, promote muscular growth, stimulate thyroid gland activity, strengthen the immune system, improve cognition, and maybe halt the aging process.
7-Oxodehydroepiandrosterone (7-oxo DHEA), often known as "7-keto," is one of three dehydroepiandrosterone-derived oxygenated metabolites. These metabolites can convert but do not return to the parent DHEA molecule. Individuals can get these oxygenated metabolites by taking 7-keto supplementation instead of DHEA supplementation. Unlike DHEA, which might possibly produce androgenic and estrogenic hormones through a different metabolic route, 7-keto does not participate in this process.
There is evidence that it may have anti-cortisol characteristics, as the enzymes that activate cortisol are also those that interconvert these oxygenated metabolites. 7-keto supplementation has been linked to an increase in metabolic rate, particularly during periods of calorie restriction. This is thought to be secondary to slowing the rate of metabolic decline associated with dieting, resulting in a relative increase. Nevertheless, the available data on this topic is limited, especially when excluding studies with potential conflicts of interest or those that involve 7-keto alongside multiple other supplements.
Structure
What else is 7-Keto DHEA known as?
Note that 7-Keto DHEA is also known as:
- 7-ketodehydroepiandrosterone
- 7-oxodehydroepiandrosterone
- 7-keto DHEA
- 7-oxoDHEA
- 7-oxo
- 7-keto
7-Keto DHEA should not be confused with:
- Dehydroepiandrosterone (parent molecule)
How Does It Work?
7-keto-DHEA may aid in weight reduction by increasing metabolism and turning more energy to heat rather than storing it as fat. 7-keto-DHEA is a substance that may boost your metabolism and help you lose weight. It may have an effect on your sex hormones only as a gel and not as an oral pill. Many individuals believe that hormone balance is the key to looking and feeling better.
While there are several natural methods for balancing your hormones, drugs or supplements can also affect your hormone levels and bring health advantages. DHEA, or dehydroepiandrosterone, is a hormone that your body produces. Some of it is turned into testosterone and estrogen, the primary male and female sex hormones.
Its effects can be influenced by the activities of testosterone and estrogen following the conversion, as well as the DHEA molecule itself. Given that DHEA is naturally created, people may ask why it is taken as a supplement. The fundamental explanation is that DHEA levels decline with age, and this decline is linked to a number of illnesses.
In fact, it is predicted that DHEA levels drop by up to 80% during maturity. This isn't simply important for the elderly, since levels begin to decline at the age of 30. When you take this hormone as a supplement, your body's levels rise. Some of it is turned into testosterone and estrogen as well.
Benefits of 7-keto-DHEA
The Thermogenic Effect
According to an early study in mice, DHEA has thermogenic qualities, which means it can help burn calories by creating heat. According to one study, 7-Keto-DHEA is more thermogenic than its parent molecule, DHEA.
Increased Metabolism
Two studies have been conducted to investigate the effect of 7-Keto on metabolism. Participants in one trial who used 7-Keto supplements lost more weight than those who took a placebo, but there was no significant change in basal metabolic rate (BMR). Another research discovered that 7-Keto avoided a drop in resting metabolic rate (RMR) and slightly boosted it, resulting in more calorie burning.
Weight Loss Aid
7-Keto may aid in weight loss due to its metabolism-boosting characteristics. Weight reduction was observed in studies with a calorie-restricted diet and exercise among people using 7-Keto supplements.
Safe and has few side effects
7-Keto is generally regarded as safe, with a low chance of major adverse effects. Mild side effects such as heartburn, metallic taste, or nausea may occur in some people. Athletes should be cautious, however, because WADA prohibits 7-keto-DHEA owing to its performance-enhancing effects. When administered as a gel, 7-Keto may have an effect on male hormones; in such circumstances, visiting a healthcare practitioner is advised.
Increase Muscle Size or Strength
Despite the popular perception that DHEA supplements can enhance muscle mass and strength by increasing testosterone levels, the bulk of studies indicate that using DHEA supplements does not normally increase muscle size or strength.
Unclear side effects on fat-burning
According to the majority of studies, DHEA is ineffective in reducing fat mass. However, some research shows that DHEA supplementation can cause minor reductions in fat mass in aged men or individuals with underactive adrenal glands.
Role in Fighting Depression
DHEA and depression have a complicated interaction. While some evidence suggests that it can help treat depression, particularly in people with moderate depression or those who do not respond to standard treatment, further study is needed before DHEA can be suggested for treating depression.
PTSD
7-keto DHEA (25-150 mg/day) significantly reduced PTSD symptoms in one trial of 5 women with treatment-resistant PTSD.
May Improve Sexual Function, Fertility and Libido
DHEA supplements may increase ovarian function in women who are infertile, enhancing the effectiveness of in vitro fertilization (IVF). Furthermore, these supplements may boost libido and sexual function in both men and women, with the greatest advantages shown in people who have poor sexual function.
Cure Adrenal Problems
Individuals suffering from adrenal gland issues, such as adrenal insufficiency, may benefit from using DHEA as a supplement.
Side effects of 7-keto DHEA
According to research, When taken orally, 7-keto-DHEA is possibly safe for a duration of up to 8 weeks. However, it may cause mild side effects such as nausea, dizziness, or low blood pressure in some individuals. It is important to note that the clinical research on this supplement is limited, and there is no substantial scientific evidence to support its use for obesity, muscle strength, anxiety, depression, or other conditions.
Dosage information
A normal supplementary dose of 7-keto is 200-400mg daily divided into two doses (100-200mg); however, some limited research shows that lesser dosages of 50-100mg may be helpful for neurological reasons. The ideal dosing schedule and total dose of 7-keto remain unknown, and the doses written above are just based on what is known to be effective.
- The 200 mg per day dose for 4-8 weeks was safe and had only little advantages.
- Older males were given 25 mg of 7-keto per day in the form of a skin gel.
- 25-150 mg of 7-keto per day was safe and moderately effective in women with PTSD
User’s experience 7-Keto DHEA
Many people review 7-keto's ability to aid weight reduction. One customer stated that it was the quickest and easiest way they had found to lose weight - they couldn't exercise but ate properly and dropped weight after taking 7-Keto. One user had chest discomfort as a result of 7-keto DHEA, prompting him to discontinue use and visit the emergency room. Many users reported hair loss and headaches. According to reviewers, 7-keto is a more effective weight loss supplement, however, DHEA is more successful in reducing menopausal symptoms and aging.
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References
- 7-KETO-DHEA: Overview, Uses, Side Effects, Precautions, Interactions, Dosing and Reviews WebMD. WebMD. Available at: https://www.webmd.com/vitamins/ai/ingredientmono-835/7-keto-dhea (Accessed: 8 November 2023).
- Jeyaprakash, N., Maeder, S., Janka, H. and Stute, P., 2023. A systematic review of the impact of 7-keto-DHEA on body weight. Archives of gynaecology and Obstetrics, 308(3), pp.777-785.
- Walle, G. V. D. (2018) Can 7-Keto-DHEA Supplements Boost Your Metabolism?, Healthline. Healthline Media. Available at: https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/7-keto-dhea#intro (Accessed: 8 November 2023).
- Worrel, M.E., Gurkovskaya, O.V., Leonard, S.T., Lewis, P.B. and Winsauer, P.J., 2011. Effects of 7-keto dehydroepiandrosterone on voluntary ethanol intake in male rats. Alcohol, 45(4), pp.349-354.
- Tagliaferro, A.R., Davis, J.R., Truchon, S. and Van Hamont, N., 1986. Effects of dehydroepiandrosterone acetate on metabolism, body weight and composition of male and female rats. The Journal of Nutrition, 116(10), pp.1977-1983.
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