Created in the gonads and adrenal glands from 17-alpha-hydroxyprogesterone and/or dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA), the androgen hormone androstenedione (andro) is converted into testosterone by a number of different body tissues, including bone and muscle.
Early into adulthood, the concentration of androgens, including androstenedione, peaks. Thereafter, levels of androstenedione in men are likely to start gradually declining, while levels in women drop abruptly at menopause and then, they begin to rise. As to weather or not lower levels of androstenedione, related to normal aging, should be regarded as a “deficiency” is yet to be decided. However, findings have shown lower levels of androstenedione in postmenopausal women who had low bone mineral density or who were underweight. Lower levels have also been detected in men suffering from systemic lupus erythematosus.
Other substances which are similar to andro, inducing norandrostenedione, and androstenediol may produce effects similar to those provided by androgen; they may also enhance the immune system. However, more research is needed in order to substantiate such preliminary ideas.
by the Harvard School of Public Health
It has been asked by millions of people “If you eat a healthy diet, do you need to take vitamins?” Not very long ago, the common answer from most experts and professionals would have been an emphatic "no". However, today there's quite a bit of evidence that taking a daily multivitamin makes good sense for most adults.
by the Mayoclinic Staff
Given the popularity and availability of “high potency” amino acids, antioxidants, enzymes and herbs, it might seem like dietary supplements could replace food as a source of the nutrients the body requires. However, this is not the case.
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