DHEA boosts athletic performance
7.0Moderate
evidence
evidence
The Claim
Some athletes and fitness enthusiasts believe that DHEA can enhance performance and increase muscle strength due to its role in steroid hormone production.
Origin
This belief is propagated by fitness culture and anecdotal reports, alongside earlier studies that suggested possible benefits.
What Science Says
Research, including systematic reviews, shows mixed results. While DHEA can increase testosterone levels in some populations, it does not consistently translate into improved athletic performance. A 2013 review concluded that DHEA supplementation had no significant effect on muscle strength or exercise capacity in healthy adults.
Verdict
Misleading