7-keto-DHEA is a metabolite of DHEA that is claimed to have weight loss and anti-aging effects. Unlike DHEA, 7-keto-DHEA does not convert into sex hormones like testosterone and estrogen.
Key Points:
- 7-keto-DHEA is not directly converted into testosterone or other hormones. It is a metabolite of DHEA.
- DHEA can convert into testosterone and estrogen, but adding a ketone group at position 7 blocks this conversion.
- Even though it doesn't convert to hormones, 7-keto-DHEA may still have some of the benefits of DHEA like fat burning and anti-aging effects. More research is needed.
DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is an endogenous hormone produced naturally in the body by the adrenal glands. It functions as a precursor to male and female sex hormones like testosterone and estrogen.
- Some key points about DHEA:
- Declines significantly with age
- Converts to hormones like testosterone and estrogen
- Sold as an anti-aging supplement
DHEA can convert into the sex hormones testosterone and estrogen through biochemical pathways in the body. The structure of DHEA allows it to undergo transformation into these hormones.
7-Keto-DHEA is a metabolite of DHEA that has been modified to include a ketone group at carbon position 7.
Here are the key effects of this modification:
- Blocks conversion to hormones
- The ketone group prevents 7-keto-DHEA from converting into testosterone, estrogen, or other hormones.
- May retain fat burning abilities
- Some evidence suggests it is still able to increase fat burning like DHEA.
- Potential anti-aging effects
- Studies show it may have antioxidant abilities and boost immune function to slow aging.
So in summary,
adding the ketone group to DHEA completely blocks its ability to convert into other steroid hormones like testosterone. But it may retain some of DHEA’s positive effects related to fat metabolism and anti-aging.
Further Research Still Needed
While early research on 7-keto-DHEA is promising, larger scale, randomized controlled trials in humans are still needed to confirm:
?? Safety and optimal dosing
?? Effects on fat loss
?? Anti-aging benefits
?? Effects on energy levels and cognition
More rigorous research will help clarify if 7-keto-DHEA lives up to its promises as supporting weight loss, athletic performance, and anti-aging without influencing hormone levels.
