What Is Pregnenolone?
The starting material for testosterone, estrogen, progesterone, cortisol, and more, pregnenolone is a pre-hormone that is essential for the synthesis of many stress, sex, and neuron hormones. Because pregnenolone plays an important part in the production of hormones, declining levels can contribute to hormonal imbalance and result in several mental and physical complications.
Pregnenolone is derived from cholesterol and is primarily produced by the adrenal cortex. It is also produced by the brain and gonad glands.
What Are the Symptoms of Low Pregnenolone?
Symptoms related to low pregnenolone include:
- Difficulties paying attention
- Memory loss
- Joint and muscle pain
- Hair loss
- Dry skin
- Excessive fatigue
- Decreased sex drive
Because pregnenolone is a precursor for several other steroids and hormones in the body, deficiency can have a profound impact on several bodily functions. Restoring healthy levels with a high-quality dietary supplement can help to address these symptoms.
What Do Pregnenolone Supplements Do?
Pregnenolone supplements can help to combat hormone deficiency issues such as memory loss, fatigue, and joint and muscle discomfort. When taken regularly, they can assist in the synthesis of other hormones, helping to improve the function of the entire body.
Pregnenolone supplements can improve sexual response, assist with dry skin, and increase energy and attention levels, but these changes will not be instantaneous. It may take three to four months to obtain optimal results through pregnenolone supplementation.
Is Taking a Pregnenolone Supplement Safe?
Pregnenolone supplementation should only occur under the supervision of a qualified hormone specialist. Supplementation is linked to side-effects including:
- Rashes and acne
- Digestive issues
- Sleep disturbances
- General agitation
- Headache
Any discomfort that lasts for more than a few days should be brought to the attention of your healthcare provider. Discontinuing treatment can eliminate symptoms, but they may also self-correct, allowing you to continue therapy until maximum effectiveness has been reached.
There are certain risks with any hormone supplementation. Always start hormone supplementation under the supervision of an experienced and qualified specialist. This will allow any concerns that arise to be addressed quickly by a competent medical professional.
Is DHEA the Same as Pregnenolone?
DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone), like pregnenolone, is a hormone precursor, but they are not the same thing. DHEA, similar to many other hormones, is converted from pregnenolone.
Pregnenolone and DHEA are both necessary for the production of testosterone and estrogen. DHEA may also assist with cardiovascular health and bone density. Due to their different functions and benefits, hormone therapy often includes both DHEA and pregnenolone supplementation.
