Many women navigating perimenopause experience symptoms like ‘brain fog,’ characterized by difficulties with memory, focus, and mental clarity. This can be a disruptive aspect of the perimenopausal transition, prompting interest in various supportive approaches.
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a naturally occurring steroid hormone that has garnered attention for its potential roles in various bodily functions. This article reviews the current scientific evidence regarding DHEA’s potential impact on brain fog and cognitive function during perimenopause.
Understanding Brain Fog in Perimenopause
Brain fog is not a medical condition itself, but rather a descriptive term for a collection of cognitive symptoms. These can include challenges with memory recall, difficulty concentrating, reduced mental sharpness, and a general feeling of mental sluggishness. While the exact mechanisms are complex, hormonal fluctuations during perimenopause are thought to play a role in these experiences.
Cognitive function encompasses various mental processes such as attention, memory, executive functions, and processing speed [1]. Maintaining optimal cognitive function is important for daily activities and overall quality of life.
What is DHEA?
Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a steroid hormone produced primarily by the adrenal glands. It serves as a precursor to other hormones, including estrogens and androgens [2]. DHEA levels naturally decline with age, leading some to refer to it as a ‘youth hormone’ [3].
DHEA and its sulfated form, DHEAS, are found in the brain and are believed to have neuroactive properties. These properties have led to investigations into DHEA’s potential roles in neurological health and cognitive processes [4].
DHEA and Cognitive Function: What the Evidence Suggests
Research into DHEA’s effects on cognitive function is ongoing and complex. Some studies suggest that DHEA may have neuroprotective effects and could influence various brain functions [2]. For example, DHEA and DHEAS have been studied in relation to conditions like Alzheimer’s disease, with some research exploring their potential involvement [4]. However, this is a different context than perimenopausal brain fog.
It’s important to note that much of the research on DHEA and cognition has been conducted in specific populations or conditions, and direct, robust evidence specifically linking DHEA supplementation to significant improvements in perimenopausal brain fog is limited. While DHEA has various pharmacological effects [2], its direct impact on the transient cognitive changes experienced during perimenopause requires more targeted investigation.
Considerations for DHEA Use
DHEA is available as a supplement, but its use is not without considerations. Because DHEA is a hormone precursor, it can influence the levels of other hormones in the body [2]. This means that DHEA supplementation could potentially lead to hormonal imbalances or side effects.
The long-term effects of DHEA supplementation are not fully understood. For instance, research has explored the association between DHEA and mortality, though the nature of this association is complex [5]. There are also ongoing investigations into DHEA’s relationship with conditions like breast cancer [6].
Lifestyle Factors and Cognitive Health
While exploring specific supplements like DHEA, it’s crucial to remember the foundational role of lifestyle factors in supporting cognitive health. Regular physical activity has been shown to positively impact cognitive function [PMID 34004389, PMID 34506842]. Adequate sleep is also strongly linked to cognitive performance [7].
Other factors, such as a balanced diet, stress management, and engaging in mentally stimulating activities, also contribute significantly to maintaining cognitive vitality during perimenopause and beyond. These lifestyle interventions are often the first line of support for managing brain fog.
References
- Cognitive function: holarchy or holacracy?. Neurological sciences : official journal of the Italian Neurological Society and of the Italian Society of Clinical Neurophysiology, 2021
- Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA): Pharmacological Effects and Potential Therapeutic Application. Mini reviews in medicinal chemistry, 2023
- [Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA)–youth hormone?]. Wiadomosci lekarskie (Warsaw, Poland : 1960), 2001
- Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) and its Sulphate (DHEAS) in Alzheimer’s Disease. Current Alzheimer research, 2020
- DHEA and mortality: what is the nature of the association?. The Journal of steroid biochemistry and molecular biology, 2015
- Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) in relation to breast cancer. Vitamins and hormones, 2025
- Relationships between physical activity, sleep and cognitive function: A narrative review. Neuroscience and biobehavioral reviews, 2021
These statements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration. This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Content is for informational purposes only and is not medical advice; consult a qualified healthcare provider before starting any supplement. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
