Keto Dhea For Chronic Pain: Does It Help?

7-keto-DHEA is a byproduct of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), a chemical produced by glands near the kidneys. Unlike DHEA, 7-keto-DHEA is not converted to steroid hormones such as androgen and estrogen. It is often marketed as a dietary supplement to support weight loss and is also used to improve lean body mass, build muscle, increase thyroid activity, boost the immune system, enhance memory, and slow aging. However, there is limited research on its effectiveness and side effects, and it is not recommended for use during pregnancy or breastfeeding due to a lack of safety data.

7-keto-DHEA's effect on weight loss

7-keto-DHEA is a supplement that may increase your metabolism and lead to weight loss. It is produced naturally in the body from dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), a hormone that comes from the adrenal glands located on top of each kidney. Unlike DHEA, 7-keto-DHEA is not converted to hormones like androgen and estrogen. Instead, it is used for cell metabolism and brain functions.

Early studies have suggested that DHEA prevents fat gain in mice due to its thermogenic, or heat-producing, properties. Thermogenesis is the process by which the body burns calories to produce heat. 7-keto-DHEA was found to be two-and-a-half times more thermogenic than DHEA in a test-tube study. This finding led researchers to begin testing the thermogenic properties of 7-keto-DHEA in humans.

To date, only two studies have looked at the effects of 7-Keto on metabolism in humans. In the first study, researchers found that participants who took a 100 mg supplement of 7-Keto for eight weeks lost significantly more weight than those given a placebo. However, there was no difference in basal metabolic rate (BMR) between the two groups. BMR is the number of calories the body needs to perform basic functions like breathing and circulating blood.

In another study, 7-Keto was found to increase the resting metabolic rate (RMR) of people who were overweight. RMR is a less accurate measure of metabolism than BMR but is still useful. The study found that 7-Keto not only prevented the decrease in metabolism that is normally associated with a reduced-calorie diet but also increased metabolism by 1.4% above baseline levels. This translated to an extra 96 calories burned per day or 672 calories per week.

In one eight-week study, 30 overweight people on a calorie-restricted diet who exercised three days per week lost 6.3 pounds (2.88 kg) when taking 200 mg per day of 7-Keto, compared to a 2.1-pound (0.97 kg) weight loss in the placebo group. In a similar study, participants who took a supplement containing 7-keto-DHEA combined with seven other ingredients lost significantly more weight than those in the placebo group. However, it is unclear whether this effect can be attributed to 7-Keto alone.

While 7-Keto is likely safe and has a low risk of serious side effects, there are some considerations to keep in mind. 7-keto-DHEA supplements have been found to trigger positive tests for performance-enhancing drugs and are banned by the World Anti-Doping Association (WADA). Additionally, when applied to the skin as a gel, 7-Keto may influence sex hormones, cholesterol, and thyroid function in men. Its effects on women are unknown.

In summary, 7-keto-DHEA is a supplement that may increase metabolism and aid weight loss, especially when combined with a calorie-restricted diet and exercise. However, more research is needed, especially on its long-term effects and its effects on women.

7-keto-DHEA's effect on memory

7-keto-DHEA is a by-product of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), a chemical formed in the body. Unlike DHEA, 7-keto-DHEA is not converted to steroid hormones such as androgen and estrogen. It is often taken to speed up the metabolism and heat production to promote weight loss. However, it is also used to enhance memory and slow aging.

In one study, scientists observed the potential of 7-Keto-DHEA to improve memory in both young and old mice with memory impairment. The effect was much stronger in young mice, where 7-Keto-DHEA completely reversed memory loss.

In another study, 33 overweight adults received 7-Keto-DHEA supplements (200 mg/day) for 8 weeks. 7-Keto, along with diet and exercise, reduced weight more than diet and exercise alone with no adverse effects.

While the research on 7-Keto-DHEA is still limited, these initial findings suggest that it may have potential benefits for memory improvement and weight loss. However, more clinical research is needed to confirm these effects.

7-keto-DHEA's effect on depression and thyroid function

7-keto-DHEA is a byproduct of DHEA, a natural steroid produced in the adrenal glands, the gonads, and the brain. Unlike DHEA, 7-keto-DHEA is not converted to steroid hormones such as androgen and estrogen. Taking 7-keto-DHEA by mouth or applying it to the skin does not increase the level of these hormones in the blood.

7-keto-DHEA's effect on depression

7-keto-DHEA is claimed to provide hormonal balance, resulting in feelings of happiness and reduced anxiety. It is also said to enhance memory and brain cognition. However, there is no good scientific evidence to support these claims.

7-keto-DHEA's effect on thyroid function

7-keto-DHEA is said to optimize thyroid function. It has been shown to increase the resting metabolic rate (RMR) of people who are overweight. Several studies have also shown that when applied to the skin, 7-keto-DHEA can affect thyroid function in men.

7-keto-DHEA's effect on alcohol dependence

7-keto-DHEA is a hormone produced in the brain, kidneys, and reproductive organs. It is similar to its cousin, DHEA, but it acts differently in the body. While DHEA is a precursor for the sex hormones estrogen and testosterone, 7-keto-DHEA is not converted into these hormones. Instead, it is used for cell metabolism and brain functions.

Research suggests that 7-keto-DHEA may help reduce alcohol dependence and abuse. In one study, 7-keto-DHEA was found to reduce alcohol-seeking behaviour and blood alcohol levels in mice. Another study in rats found that 7-keto-DHEA significantly reduced the dose of ethanol consumed compared to DHEA. It is believed that 7-keto-DHEA may reduce the reinforcing effects of drinking alcohol, possibly by altering GABA activity in the brain.

The effects of 7-keto-DHEA on alcohol dependence may be related to its ability to negatively modulate the GABAA receptor complex. Ethanol is a positive modulator of this receptor, while 7-keto-DHEA is a negative modulator. By altering GABA activity, 7-keto-DHEA may reduce the rewarding effects of alcohol and decrease consumption. However, more research is needed to fully understand the mechanism of action of 7-keto-DHEA in alcohol dependence.

7-keto-DHEA's effect on cortisol reduction and heart health

7-keto-DHEA is a supplement that may increase metabolism and lead to weight loss. It is formed from dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), a hormone produced by the adrenal glands. Unlike DHEA, 7-keto-DHEA is not converted into hormones like androgen and estrogen. Instead, it may promote weight loss by increasing the body's metabolism and converting more energy into heat rather than storing it as fat.

The potential benefits of 7-keto-DHEA extend beyond weight loss. It has been found to increase the resting metabolic rate (RMR) in overweight individuals, which could contribute to weight loss. Additionally, 7-keto-DHEA has been linked to a reduction in body fat percentage and a decrease in BMI. These effects on metabolism and body composition suggest that 7-keto-DHEA may be a promising supplement for those seeking to manage their weight.

Furthermore, 7-keto-DHEA has been associated with a regulation of cortisol activity. It is thought to achieve this by competitively inhibiting the enzyme 11β-HSD 1, which is responsible for converting cortisone to active cortisol. Elevated blood levels of glucocorticoids, including cortisol, are associated with insulin resistance and obesity. By regulating cortisol activity, 7-keto-DHEA may help address these issues.

In terms of heart health, 7-keto-DHEA has been generally well-tolerated in studies, with no serious adverse effects reported. However, it is important to note that it may influence hormones when applied topically as a gel, affecting sex hormones, cholesterol, and thyroid function in men. The oral supplement form, on the other hand, does not appear to affect hormone levels.

While 7-keto-DHEA shows promise in reducing cortisol levels and promoting heart health, more research is needed to confirm these effects. The existing studies have been relatively small, and more extensive clinical trials are required to fully understand the potential benefits and risks associated with this supplement.

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