Aging is generally associated with lower DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) level and lower energy level.

DHEA is a male hormone which is produced in the adrenal glands. DHEA is the most abundant of the adrenal steroid hormones and serves as a precursor for sex hormones, such as estrogen and testosterone.

Those who have been tested and found to be low in DHEA should consider taking DHEA supplement. The downside of DHEA use is an increased risk of breast and prostate cancer and heart attack.

People with low DHEA level likely have low 7-KETO DHEA levels since the level of 7-KETO DHEA (3-acetyl-7-oxo-dehydroepiandrosterone) is directly related to the level of DHEA in the body. 7-KETO is a naturally occurring metabolite (breakdown product) of the hormone dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA). For those people with low DHEA levels, 7-Keto supplementation may improve metabolism and energy levels.

Tests in animals and in-vitro (test tubes) were performed in the areas of immune modulation, memory enhancement, and thermogenesis (the process the body uses to convert stored calories into energy). In all cases, the effects of 7-KETO were stronger than those produced by DHEA.

7-KETO is a thermogenic (fat burning) compound. Thermogenesis is the production of heat from the body's metabolism: The higher the degree of thermogenesis, the more fuel is burned. Your body's metabolic rate will increase, using up ingested or stored calories at a higher rate.

7- KETO appears to exert its effects on 3 thermogenic enzymes which promote the metabolism of fatty acids in the liver and lead to a decrease of triglycerides in the liver.

Because of its effects on thermogenesis, 7- KETO can be very effective at inducing fat loss. A Randomized, double-blind, placebo controlled study published in "Current Therapeutic Research" followed overweight people who consumed a 1,800 calorie per day diet and exercised three times per week for 45 minutes, as well as those given placebo. Patients taking 7-KETO had an average fat loss of 6.34 pounds, versus 2.1 pounds for those taking placebo. This is a threefold increase in weight loss. The 7-KETO group also had a 1.8% reduction in body fat, vs. only 0.57% in the placebo group-another threefold difference. The increased weight loss in the 7-KETO group was associated with a significant increase in levels of T3 (a thyroid hormone that plays a major role in determining a person's metabolic rate), although the levels of T3 did not exceed the normal range. At a dose of 100 mg twice daily, no adverse effects were reported. Unlike ephedra (ma huang) or bitter orange (citrus aurantium), there were no central nervous system effects from 7-KETO. It appears to be quite safe.

7-KETO also has a beneficial effect on immune system function:

A Czech study showed that 7-KETO was able to mitigate the harmful effects of cortisol on the immune system.

A study presented in April of 2004 and reported from the Minnesota Applied Research Center and the Geriatric Research Education and Clinical Center in Minneapolis found that 7-KETO supplementation improved immune function in elderly men and women. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study involved 22 women and 20 men over the age of 65. They were given 100 mg of 7-KETO twice daily, or a placebo, for four weeks. Researchers noted that patients in the 7-KETO group had a significant increase in immune helper cells and a significant decrease in immune suppressor cells. There is also an increase in neutrophils-white blood cells that are the first to respond to infection.

Reduction in cholesterol levels.

Improved memory.

Reductions in high blood pressure resulting from weight loss

Short-term animal studies revealed no adverse effects with large amounts of 7-KETO.

A safety study in humans has shown that 7-KETO did not raise estrogen or testosterone levels or produce any other negative effects at levels up to 200 mg per day for eight weeks.. However, the long-term safety of 7-KETO for humans has not been demonstrated. The increase in T3 levels resulting from taking 7-KETO could, in theory, produce adverse effects on the heart or promote bone loss. Therefore, people wishing to take 7-KETO, particularly those who have a thyroid disorder or are taking thyroid hormone, should consult a physician before using.

Rarely, report of feeling "jittery" might be associated with underlying undiagnosed thyroid disorder.

Currently, there were no well-known drug interactions with 7-KETO.

7-KETO should be taken at a dose of 100 mg twice daily, preferably before breakfast and lunch. Late afternoon or evening dosing should be avoided since it may cause insomnia due to stimulation of brain function. It can be safely combined with other supplements.

However, it is still important to consult your physician prior to its use.

References

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