As a personal trainer, I've observed the essential role Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) plays for athletes, particularly in the production of testosterone and estrogen.
However, sourcing a high-quality DHEA supplement with the appropriate dosage to effectively balance these levels can be difficult.
What should you look for in a DHEA supplement to enhance your well-being while ensuring top-notch quality?
Our team spent months researching and testing various products, consulting with clients and an endocrinologist to find the best options.
Stay tuned to find out which supplement aligns best with your fitness routine.
The Best DHEA Supplements
- Best Overall DHEA Supplement: Double Wood DHEA
- Cheapest DHEA Supplement for Aging Men: Horbaach
- Best DHEA Supplement for Aging Women: Zhou Nutrition
- Leading DHEA Capsules for Weight Loss: Havasu Nutrition
- Top Choice DHEA Capsules for Athletes: Superior Labs
- Best DHEA Tablets for Mood and Stress: Natrol DHEA Mood & Stress
- Best DHEA Capsules for Hormonal Balance: Pure Encapsulations
- Best Vegan-Friendly DHEA Supplement: Sheer Strength
- Best Lower-Dose DHEA Formula: NatureBell
Our Top DHEA Supplements (July 2024)
1 - Double Wood DHEA (Best Overall)
- Price per serving: $0.33 n Key ingredients: DHEA n Form: Capsule n Third-party tested: Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Targeted at older men and women for healthy aging
- Positive reviews about the physical and mental effect of this hormone balancer
- Large dose and supply should keep you going for six months
Cons
- The larger dose makes it difficult to take a lower daily amount
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Older men and women
- Those seeking mental clarity
Who is it not for?
- Those needing lower doses
Final Verdict
High-quality, large-dose supplement ideal for aging. Great for improving mental clarity.
I've personally tried a range of DHEA supplements, and the one from Double Wood truly stood out. Their reputation for quality is something I can vouch for. The company specifically markets this as a product to fight aging. This focus on anti-aging makes it a standout choice.
We got a lot of positive comments from older men and postmenopausal women who found it helped them with mental clarity.
It comes in a larger 100mg dose that is safe to take but keep in mind that it’s more difficult to adjust your intake to a precise amount.
Quick Facts:
2 - DHEA by Horbaach (Cheapest supplement for Aging Men)
- Price per serving: $0.09 n Key ingredients: DHEA n Form: Capsule n Third-party tested: Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Comes in quick-release capsules that seem to make them faster acting
- Produced in a GMP-verified factory for higher quality and purity standards
- Good results for sex hormones and libido in men
Cons
- Not suitable for vegans
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Men seeking libido improvement
- Quick-release needs
Who is it not for?
- Vegans
Final Verdict
Effective for libido and hormone balance. Not suitable for vegans.
I remember first trying the Horbaach product after a colleague recommended it. Its maximum strength formula was something that not only caught our team's attention but also showed noticeable results in my routine. We got a lot of positive feedback from clients who noticed improvements in muscle size and sexual function within a few weeks.
That’s probably down to the higher dosage of 100mg, and we had quite a few women tell us that it improved their libido as well. Studies from the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology have shown that this could be tied to adrenal insufficiency, that DHEA can influence [1].
I would just point out that the capsules contain some gelatin, so these aren’t suitable for vegans.
Quick Facts:
3 - Zhou DHEA Supplement (Best for Aging Women)
- Price per serving: $0.25 n Key ingredients: DHEA n Form: Capsule n Third-party tested: Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- The per-serving dosage is ideal for women
- Plant-based and GMO-free product is ideal for vegan athletes
- Positive comments from older men related to their aging process
Cons
- There are no bulk-order options available or subscription discounts
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Aging women
- Vegan athletes
Who is it not for?
- Bulk-order seekers
Final Verdict
Ideal for aging women with vegan-friendly formula. Quality and effectiveness make it a top choice despite higher cost.
I've been a fan of Zhou's products for a while, and their DHEA supplement didn't disappoint. It was close to being my top pick, but it fell short on value for money. Despite this, its superior quality and effectiveness make it a worthy contender.
However, I had a few female clients in their 50s and 60s say that they felt improved muscle strength and increased bone density after taking this product for about a month. Some of them also had measured improvements in DHEA levels and steroid hormones.
And the serving size should work well for both men and women, also making it easy to gradually increase the daily intake.
Quick Facts:
4 - Havasu Nutrition DHEA Supplement (Best for Weight Loss)
- Price per serving: $0.27 n Key ingredients: DHEA n Form: Capsule n Third-party tested: Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Ideal dose for adjusting your daily intake more easily
- The capsules are small and easy to swallow
- Great subscription discounts are available to never run out
- Positive results on increased muscle mass and mental energy
Cons
- Free delivery is only available on orders over $35
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Weight loss seekers
- Muscle mass builders
Who is it not for?
- Orders under $35
Final Verdict
Great for weight loss and muscle building. Subscription discounts available for continuous use.
I've been using Havasu Nutrition's DHEA for a few months now, and it's easily one of our top choices. The purity of their product is something I've come to rely on.
I generally find such products are easy to add to a stack with other supplements. And because of the 50 mg of DHEA per capsule, it’s also easy to take a precise amount if you’ve had a recommendation from a doctor or dietitian [2].
I’ve been taking Havasu Nutrition DHEA consistently for a few months now and found it significantly helped to build lean muscle mass [3].
Quick Facts:
“Supplementation of DHEA appears to be effective in persons over 40 in the dosage range of 25-50mg, while prolonged usage of 100mg appears to be safe in this demographic.” - Kamal Patel, Editor at Examine.com.
5 - Superior Labs Extra Strength Natural DHEA (Top Choice for Atheles)
- Price per serving: $0.37 n Key ingredients: DHEA n Form: Capsule n Third-party tested: Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Higher dose product that would suit performance athletes
- Claims to help with mental and physical energy levels
- Guarantees purity with no additives, fillers, or heavy metals
Cons
- It’s regularly out of stock making it difficult to keep up with supplies
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Performance athletes
- Those seeking purity
Who is it not for?
- Inconsistent availability
Final Verdict
High-dose, purity-guaranteed supplement for athletes. Often out of stock.
This is another maximum strength DHEA for men and women, and we got good results for our testing team and clients who saw improvements in testosterone levels through blood test results.
This is tied to the effect it has on the body’s adrenal glands which get a boost with peak DHEA levels [4].
What sets it apart from other DHEA supplements is that the company tests each batch and guarantees there are no contaminants, fillers, or heavy metals.
The only downside was that it’s often out of stock.
Quick Facts:
6 - Natrol DHEA Mood & Stress (Best for Mood and Stress)
- Price per serving: $0.07 n Key ingredients: DHEA
- Calcium n Form: Tablet n Third-party tested: Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- It contains some added calcium to help with lower bone density
- Positive comments about improved mood and mental health
- Tablets are small and easy to swallow without getting stuck
Cons
- You might need to take two tablets a day for maximum effect
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Mood improvement
- Stress reduction
Who is it not for?
- High-dose needs
Final Verdict
Good for mood and stress with added calcium. Small dosage might require multiple tablets.
What sets this product apart from the DHEA supplements is that in addition to 25mg of DHEA, it also contains some calcium. But I would highlight that it’s a relatively small dose that might require additional supplements.
We also got a lot of positive feedback about improvements in general mood and reduced levels of stress [5].
You also need to be aware that most people should aim to take 50 mg of DHEA per day, so you might need to plan on taking two tablets a day [6].
Quick Facts:
7 - Pure Encapsulations DHEA Supplement (Best for Hormonal Balance)
- Price per serving: $0.25 n Key ingredients: DHEA n Form: Capsule n Third-party tested: Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Provides a micronized DHEA source for higher energy levels and better weight loss
- A lower dose makes it easier to gradually increase and decrease daily intake
- The capsules are small and easy to swallow
Cons
- The bulk-order bottle is often out of stock, making it more expensive
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Hormonal balance seekers
- Adrenal fatigue sufferers
Who is it not for?
- Bulk-order seekers
Final Verdict
Micronized source for better absorption and balance. Small capsules are easy to adjust dosage.
A few months back, a fellow personal trainer introduced me to Pure Encapsulations. Since then, I've come to appreciate their commitment to quality, having personally benefited from their DHEA supplement.
Pure Encapsulations DHEA claims that using a micronized source, where the particles are smaller, has a better impact on the immune system, fat burning, and the overall testosterone and estrogen balance.
I couldn’t find studies to support that claim, but our test results did show that it helped clients to increase muscle mass and deal with adrenal fatigue.
We also got positive feedback that the small capsules are easy to swallow and make it easier to adjust the daily dose and achieve an ideal hormone balance.
Quick Facts:
8 - Extra Strength DHEA by Sheer Strength Store (Best Vegan-Friendly)
- Price per serving: $0.42 n Key ingredients: DHEA n Form: Capsule n Third-party tested: Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Certified GMO and gluten-free as well as vegan suitable
- Ideal for athletes trying to maximize physical performance
- Positive feedback from women about menopausal symptoms like mood swings
Cons
- It’s quite expensive even when considering the higher dose
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Vegan-friendly
- Menopausal women
Who is it not for?
- Budget-conscious buyers
Final Verdict
High-quality, vegan-friendly with higher dose. Expensive but effective.
Unlike other DHEA supplements, Sheer Strength has created a formula to ensure that it's of the highest possible quality with no fillers, gluten, or GMO ingredients. And they also made sure that it’s entirely plant-based to make it suitable for vegans.
The higher dose seems to be a suitable option for women going through menopause or dealing with hormonal imbalances and their impacts on body composition [7]. Two of my female fitness clients reported quite a few benefits after using this one for three months.
Just keep in mind that even with the higher dose per capsule, this can end up being more expensive than the above recommendations.
Quick Facts:
9 - NatureBell DHEA Supplement (Best Lower-Dose)
- Price per serving: $0.08 n Key ingredients: DHEA n Form: Capsule n Third-party tested: Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Positive comments from women and men about their sexual function
- Certified all-natural supplement with no GMO or filler ingredients
- Third-party tested for purity and consistent dosage
Cons
- The capsules seem to be larger than others we tested
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Sexual function improvement
- Non-GMO seekers
Who is it not for?
- Those needing smaller capsules
Final Verdict
Great for mental health and muscle building. Larger capsules may be difficult to swallow.
This NatureBell DHEA supplement is another one where we got a mix of feedback about the positive impacts on mental health, cognitive function, and muscle building. These are all important things for healthy aging.
It’s also great to see the GMP-certified label and that the company has the product third-party tested for a consistent dose.
I personally found the dose was good for athletic performance, but keep in mind that the capsules are a bit larger than others.
Quick Facts:
10 - Amazing Formulas Micronized DHEA
- Price per serving: $0.09 n Key ingredients: DHEA n Form: Capsule n Third-party tested: Yes
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Low-dose option comes in small and easy to swallow capsules
- Promises premium quality through regular third-party testing
- Positive reviews about improved hormone levels and erectile dysfunction
Cons
- Even large bottles won’t last long if you need a higher dose
Who is it for?
Who is it for?
- Fine-tune dosage
- Lower dose needs
Who is it not for?
- High-dose needs
Final Verdict
Low-dose option for precise intake. Suitable for those looking for gradual dosage adjustments.
This is another product with a lower dose that will either suit those that don’t need to spend on taking DHEA in large amounts or who like to fine-tune their intake.
The company uses third-party testing services to ensure that every batch provides the right purity and dose, which is important to achieve consistent results.
And our clients have commented that it improved libido and overall health within just a few weeks. Just keep in mind that if you need a higher daily dose, then the bottle won’t last that long.
Quick Facts:
How We Chose the Best DHEA Supplements
In our quest to identify the best DHEA supplements on the market, we undertook a comprehensive research process, focusing on several critical factors.
Recognizing that health and wellness goals can vary significantly among individuals, our selection criteria were designed to cater to a wide range of needs while also emphasizing the purity and effectiveness of DHEA supplementation.
While the benefits of DHEA supplements can be somewhat subjective, certain universal attributes (ingredient quality, convenience, and price) were paramount in our evaluation. We applied a star rating to each product based on our in-depth research and findings.
Ingredients
The ingredient list in DHEA supplements can be concise, but the quality is of utmost importance. Our primary focus was on the purity and potency of the DHEA used.
Our rigorous selection process ensured that both the source and processing methods of DHEA were scrutinized, ensuring that users receive the most effective and safe product.
Convenience
DHEA supplements come in various forms, from capsules to powders. We understand that convenience plays a significant role in adherence to supplementation. Hence, we evaluated products based on their ease of use, dosage simplicity, and packaging.
Price
DHEA supplements can range in price, depending on factors like brand reputation, ingredient sourcing, and additional beneficial components. While some premium DHEA supplements might command a higher price, our recommended list aims to strike a balance between cost and quality.
Buyer’s Guide for the Best DHEA Supplements
There are four important things to look at when you’re trying to decide between different DHEA supplements.
Dosage
Several studies have used doses of up to 200 mg of DHEA for trial purposes, and those are generally classed as safe levels with no side effects [8]. What you’ll notice in the above DHEA supplements is that they range from 25mg to 100mg per capsule.
I generally suggest buying one with 50mg for two reasons.
First of all, it’s a strong enough dose to make a difference in your DHEA levels, even with just one capsule a day.
But most people will need to experiment with gradually increasing doses to find the ideal amount to impact male and female sex hormones. That’s a lot easier with a capsule that contains 50mg.
“DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is a hormone produced by the adrenal glands that is converted by the body into the hormones testosterone and estrogen. DHEA production generally peaks in people in their mid-20s and gradually declines with age.”
- John P. Cunha, DO, FACOEP, emedicinehealth.com
Size Of Capsules
One thing you always need to keep in mind with the stronger dose supplements for any kind of product is that they often come in capsules that are more difficult to swallow.
And if you end up adding more products to your stack, then the size of the capsules becomes an important part of your decision process.
The good thing with pure DHEA's highest quality supplements is that a typical 50mg capsule will be small enough to swallow easily.
And even if you take more than one or combine it in a stack, it won’t feel like an effort to get them all down.
Additional Ingredients
You’ll often find supplements like DHEA where companies decide to add some extra ingredients like minerals and vitamins. In some cases, that can work out well. But more often than not, you’ll end up with a small amount of other stuff that isn’t enough to cover your daily needs.
And then you have to invest in another product anyway to get the ideal amount.
Personally, I always suggest that people stick with pure DHEA supplements and take other products for different health benefits. It makes planning and stacking a lot easier, and you gain a lot more insight into how well a specific ingredient is working.
What I mean is that if your adrenal gland function improves after a few weeks on DHEA, then you’re not left in doubt about the impact of other ingredients.
The best way to know what suits you best is to ask for recommendations from a licensed professional. They can consider your current body state and advise what DHEA supplement brand to take from there.
Related Articles: Best Testosterone Booster For Males
DHEA and Bodybuilding
DHEA has garnered significant attention in the bodybuilding community, as many athletes and fitness enthusiasts want to harness the potential benefits for muscle growth.
The underlying belief is that DHEA can boost testosterone levels, a crucial hormone for muscle synthesis and strength gains [9]. As testosterone plays a pivotal role in muscle development, the supplementation of DHEA might offer an edge in the gym.
DHEA's Role in Weight Loss
DHEA's potential in aiding weight loss primarily lies in its potential ability to elevate free testosterone levels. Elevated testosterone can not only support muscle growth but also enhance metabolic rate, potentially leading to more efficient fat-burning [10].
As muscle tissue burns more calories than fat, even at rest, an increase in muscle mass can indirectly promote fat loss. For individuals aiming to achieve a leaner physique while retaining or gaining muscle, DHEA could be a promising addition to their stacks.
DHEA and Aging
As we age, the body's natural production of DHEA diminishes, leading to a decline in various physiological functions. Many researchers believe that this decline in DHEA levels is linked to the aging process itself, contributing to reduced bone density, decreased skin hydration, and cognitive decline [11].
Supplementing with DHEA has been explored as a potential anti-aging strategy. Some studies suggest that DHEA supplementation can help improve skin appearance, enhance bone health, and even boost mood and cognitive function in older adults.
While the anti-aging benefits of DHEA are still under investigation, it offers a glimmer of hope for those seeking to combat the effects of time on the body.
FAQs
How Much DHEA Should You Take Daily?
You should take 50mg of DHEA daily if you're just starting. This amount should help increase DHEA levels enough to support normal hormone balances. But if you feel that it's not giving you the results you're looking for, you may consider increasing your intake to 200mg.
How Long Does It Take DHEA to Start Working?
It usually takes about four to six weeks for DHEA to start working. This is the average range from personal testing with clients and generally depends on factors like your age and the severity of hormonal imbalances.
Does DHEA Boost Testosterone?
Yes, DHEA boosts testosterone. Studies have shown that even a moderate intake can significantly affect T-levels as the body uses the DHEA to transform it into testosterone.
Should DHEA Be Taken in the Morning or Night?
Yes, DHEA should be taken in the morning to gain full advantage of its mental and physical effects. One thing you can do is split your intake between morning and evening to maintain a consistent level.
Our Verdict on the Best DHEA Supplements
After putting all these supplements through rigorous testing, all our firsthand experience and testing data point to the Double Wood DHEA. I take it somewhat regularly because I simply love the increased physical and mental energy I get from it.
Out of all the best DHEA supplements, it offers the greatest flexibility for adjusting the dose, and it also seems to have the highest quality with great subscription discounts.
My clients who participated in the testing have all thanked me for including them, as they continued to use it after the testing, as it has brought significant improvements to their mental and physical health.
Our #1 Recommendation
Double Wood DHEA (Best Overall)
Rated With Total Shape's Scoring System
- Targeted at older men and women for healthy aging
- Positive reviews about the physical and mental effect of this hormone balancer
- Large dose and supply should keep you going for six months
- Get the BEST PRICE until the end of July
- The larger dose makes it difficult to take a lower daily amount
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