Should You Supplement with DHEA? Here’s What to Know

Posted on October 6, 2025October 6, 2025 by AmyADMIN

Should you supplement with DHEA? It’s a question more of our patients are asking as they look for ways to improve their energy, strength, and hormone balance.

DHEA is one of the most abundant hormones in the body and acts as a building block for testosterone—which is why it’s often linked to men’s performance and vitality.

The challenge is that not everyone benefits from DHEA supplements, and taking them unnecessarily can backfire. In this guide, we’ll break down everything you need to know about this hormone, what it does, and whether it belongs in your supplement stack.

What Is DHEA and What Does It Do in the Body?

Before deciding whether to take supplements for hormone health, you should know what you’re supplementing. Short for dehydroepiandrosterone, DHEA is a steroid hormone precursor produced by the adrenal glands.

It helps maintain healthy hormone levels, supports the stress response system, and serves as a building block for hormones like testosterone and estrogen.

Your DHEA levels peak in early adulthood and gradually decline as you age. This drop is one reason men may notice changes in their energy, strength, mood, or libido over time. Because it’s directly connected to hormone production, this hormone is often considered a potential support player for men looking to optimize their health.

Symptoms of Low DHEA Levels in Men

If your body isn’t making enough DHEA, you’ll usually feel it in more ways than one. Since this hormone plays a role in energy, mood, and hormone production, low levels can leave you feeling “off” without knowing exactly why.

Some of the most common symptoms of low DHEA include:

Constant fatigue
Lower sex drive or ED
Mood swings or brain fog
Muscle weakness and weight gain
Weaker bones

If these symptoms resonate with you, it may be worth testing your levels. At Victory Men’s Health, we use advanced lab testing to uncover hormone imbalances that could be holding you back. Then, we create a personalized treatment plan to help restore balance and get you feeling like yourself again.

Can DHEA Boost Testosterone Levels in Men?

DHEA and testosterone are both androgens, but supplementing with DHEA doesn’t significantly increase testosterone levels. While many men try it hoping for a direct boost, research shows its effect on testosterone is minimal.

That said, DHEA is still an important hormone in its own right. It supports muscle gain, fat loss, mood, energy, sexual health, and even adrenal function by helping regulate cortisol. So while it may not spike testosterone, optimizing your DHEA levels can still play a valuable role in your overall hormone balance and vitality.

Want a deeper dive into how DHEA fits into the bigger picture of hormone optimization? Check out the Women Want Strong Men podcast episode below to learn more about when supplements can help—and when alternatives may be the smarter move.

What Are the Benefits of Taking DHEA Supplements?

If you’ve been feeling run-down, struggling to build muscle, or noticing shifts in your hormones, DHEA supplements might be able to help. This powerful hormone precursor supports your body in restoring balance, improving strength, and even sharpening energy levels.

Potential benefits of supplementing with DHEA include:

Improved energy and reduced fatigue
Better mood and more stable outlook
Enhanced libido and sexual performance
Support for workout recovery and lean muscle maintenance
Hormone balance during aging

However, it’s worth noting that DHEA supplement benefits won’t look the same for everyone. While some men experience noticeable improvements, others may see little change if their levels weren’t low enough for supplementation to begin with.

What Are the Side Effects?

Side effects are uncommon when DHEA is prescribed and monitored properly. Problems typically arise with over-the-counter use or unmonitored dosing, which is why provider oversight and high-quality supplements matter. Side effects can include acne, oily skin, hair loss, mood swings, and disrupted sleep.

Should You Supplement with DHEA?

Bottom line? Your body naturally produces DHEA, so supplementing isn’t always necessary. That said, if your labs show low levels, it can be an effective tool for supporting energy, mood, libido, and overall hormone health.

At Victory Men’s Health, we eliminate the guesswork by using advanced lab testing to determine whether supplementation makes sense for you. For most men, it’s not an either-or decision.

Optimizing testosterone and DHEA together often delivers the best results. Supporting both hormones can enhance your energy, mood, muscle mass, and overall vitality as you age.

What’s the Best Dosage of DHEA for Men?

Dosage is one of the trickiest parts of supplementing with DHEA. Most over-the-counter options are way stronger than what most men need. And just like with testosterone, “normal” isn’t always optimal. Even if your levels fall within the normal range, supplementation can still be beneficial—especially as you age.

For most men, an optimal DHEA level is around 400 to 600 ng/dL. That’s why it’s best to work with a men’s health provider who can tailor your dosage and monitor your labs over time.

Why Testing Comes First

When it comes to optimizing your hormone balance, testing is the foundation of any safe, effective treatment. Advanced hormone panels measure not only DHEA but also testosterone, estrogen, and other markers that impact your overall health.

Starting with testing means avoiding the risks of over-supplementing or taking daily supplements you don’t actually need. We build treatment plans for our patients based on data, so you’re never left guessing about what your body really needs.

What to Look For

A quality supplement will come from a trusted source, be properly dosed, and use a form your body can actually absorb—like our micronized DHEA supplement.

Unlike standard forms, micronized DHEA is broken down into smaller particles, so it’s easier for your body to absorb and use. This means you get more consistent results without having to increase your dose.

Common Questions About DHEA Supplements for Men

What Should You Stack DHEA With?

Some men stack DHEA with zinc, vitamin D3, or omega-3s to support hormone balance and overall health. The right stack depends on your lab work, symptoms, lifestyle, and goals, so it’s important to work with a healthcare provider to build your ideal supplement stack.

Will DHEA Raise Testosterone?

It can raise testosterone in some men, but the effect varies. Men with low DHEA tend to benefit the most, while men with normal levels may see little change and may be at higher risk for side effects like acne, hair loss, or hormone imbalance if they supplement unnecessarily.

What’s the Best Way to Absorb DHEA?

This hormone is fat-soluble, so it’s best taken with a meal that includes healthy fats. High-quality capsules from a trusted provider generally offer the most reliable absorption.

Is DHEA Safe to Take Every Day?

Yes, daily use is safe and often recommended when monitored by a qualified provider. Regular lab work helps ensure your levels stay in the optimal range and prevents imbalances over time.

How Is DHEA Different From Testosterone Therapy?

DHEA and testosterone are both androgen hormones: DHEA is produced by the adrenal glands, while testosterone comes from the testicles. DHEA isn’t as powerful as testosterone, but both are essential for optimal health.

Think of testosterone as the lead singer and DHEA as the drummer—you need both for a cohesive performance. Focusing on testosterone alone without optimizing DHEA can lead to an incomplete response, which is why balancing both through hormone optimization therapy delivers the best results.

Take Charge of Your Hormone Health Today

So, should you supplement with DHEA? The answer depends on your body and lab results. While supplementing this adrenal hormone can provide real benefits for some men, it’s not the right move for everyone—and taking it blindly can do more harm than good.

At Victory Men’s Health, we take the guesswork out of your hormone health. With advanced testing, pharmaceutical-grade supplements, and personalized treatment plans, we help men across Illinois, Missouri, and beyond regain their energy, strength, and confidence.

Ready to take control of your health? Book a consultation today to find out whether DHEA or hormone optimization therapy is the best path forward for you.

TRT Clinic Warning Signs (& What to Look For Instead)

Posted on June 13, 2025September 3, 2025 by AmyADMIN

If you’re thinking about starting testosterone replacement therapy (TRT), you already know it can be life-changing. More energy, stronger workouts, better sleep, a sharper mind—it’s no wonder more men are turning to TRT to take back their health. The only problem? Not every TRT clinic is a good fit.

With new men’s health clinics opening up left and right, it’s easy to fall into a program that cuts corners or treats you like nothing more than a number. That’s why we’re sharing the TRT clinic warning signs to watch out for, and the green flags that signal you’ve found the right provider.

Recently on the Women Want Strong Men podcast, Dr. David Yablonsky joined us to discuss the rise of subpar TRT clinics and the dangers of underqualified providers. He didn’t hold back, so if you’re considering testosterone therapy—this episode is a must-listen after reading.

TRT Clinic Warning Signs: Red Flags You Shouldn’t Ignore

When you’re finally ready to do something about your low energy, declining strength, or sluggish libido, the last thing you need is a TRT clinic that makes things worse. Unfortunately, not every provider out there offers the kind of care men actually need.

Some are just looking to churn out prescriptions as fast as possible. If you’ve got a gut feeling something’s off or you’re just starting your search, here’s what to watch out for.

Minimal or Incomplete Lab Testing

If a clinic only runs a total testosterone test without checking your free testosterone, estradiol, hematocrit, SHBG, or other vital markers (like LH, FSH, and prolactin), that’s a major red flag. You can’t build an effective treatment plan without a complete picture of what’s going on in your body. With minimal labwork, you can expect minimal care.

One-Size-Fits-All Treatment Plans

Getting handed the same protocol as every other guy in the waiting room? Not a good sign. Your symptoms, labs, lifestyle, and goals are unique—and your TRT plan should be too. If a clinic pushes the same dose, delivery method, or schedule across the board, they’re not treating you like an individual.

No Discussion of Side Effects or Long-Term Impact

Every medical treatment comes with pros and cons. If your provider isn’t explaining the potential risks and side effects of TRT, they’re not being transparent. You deserve to understand exactly what you’re signing up for.

That said, beware of fear-based, outdated advice. Many providers still panic over elevated hematocrit without understanding the nuance. High red blood cell counts aren’t the same as high clotting risk. If they tell you to stop treatment or take aspirin without explaining the full picture, that’s also a red flag.

Lack of Ongoing Monitoring

TRT isn’t a “set it and forget it” situation. Especially in the beginning, a high-quality clinic will recheck your labs every few months and adjust your protocol based on how your body responds. Once things are dialed in, less frequent monitoring may be appropriate—but ongoing oversight is still key to long-term success. If that isn’t happening, that’s a big problem.

Overcharging or Upselling Unnecessary Add-Ons

If a TRT clinic is constantly upselling you on pricey peptides, supplements, or injections you didn’t ask for and don’t need, take that as a red flag. Some places prioritize profits over patient care, pushing unnecessary add-ons with little to no personalized guidance.

Even worse, you may be asked to pay thousands of dollars upfront for bundled “treatment packages” without a clear breakdown of costs or who’s actually managing your care. You deserve transparency about what you’re paying for, who’s prescribing it, and why.

Focusing Only on Lab Numbers, Not How You Feel

Your testosterone level is just one piece of the puzzle. A clinic that only cares about numbers—and not your energy, libido, sleep, focus, or performance—is missing the mark. You want a provider who listens to your experience and doesn’t just chase lab ranges.

Billing Insurance Instead of Focusing on Care

Insurance rarely covers testosterone therapy unless your labs are drastically low, and even then, coverage is inconsistent. Many providers in insurance-based systems are limited by strict approval criteria and outdated guidelines, meaning men who truly need TRT often get denied.

Great testosterone clinics bypass the red tape and focus on treating you based on how you feel and what your labs actually show.

Green Flags: What to Look For in a TRT Clinic

Now that you know what not to trust, let’s flip the script and talk about what great care looks like. The best TRT clinics don’t just fix your testosterone levels—they treat the whole man.

That means looking at your labs, symptoms, lifestyle, and goals, and building a plan that works for your body. These green flags will help you spot a provider who’s doing it the right way and has your long-term health in mind.

Starts with a Deep Dive into Your Health

The best TRT clinics start with a comprehensive consultation and lab panel, not a prescription pad. They take time to understand your symptoms, run a full hormone panel, and learn your goals before recommending anything.

They’re also transparent about who’s on your care team. You should know who’s overseeing your treatment and trust that they’re qualified to do so. This kind of thoughtful approach builds a strong foundation for lasting success.

Customizes Your Protocol Based on Labs and Lifestyle

You shouldn’t be stuck on the same treatment plan as someone twice your size or half your age. A quality provider will tailor your TRT protocol (including dose, frequency, and delivery method) based on your labs, symptoms, lifestyle, and response to treatment.

Offers Clear Education Every Step of the Way

You should never feel confused about what’s happening with your health. A trustworthy clinic takes time to explain your results, what each marker means, why you’re on your current dose, and what to expect. You’re part of the decision-making process, not just along for the ride.

Keeps a Close Eye on Your Progress

TRT isn’t about getting your testosterone to a certain number—it’s about how you feel and perform in real life. The right clinic will recheck your labs 2-4 months after starting treatment, listen to your feedback, and adjust your treatment based on what works best for you.

Addresses the Bigger Picture of Men’s Health

Low testosterone rarely shows up in a vacuum. The best clinics know how to look at your full health picture, whether that means helping you sleep better, managing stress, improving your nutrition, or tackling erectile dysfunction. They don’t just fix a number—they help you feel like yourself again.

Balances Optimization with Safety

Real, lasting success with TRT means doing it responsibly. The right TRT provider monitors your blood pressure, red blood cells, liver function, prostate health, and fertility goals throughout your journey. The point of treatment shouldn’t just be boosting your testosterone, it should be about protecting your health for the long haul.

Choose a TRT Clinic That Puts Your Health First

At the end of the day, testosterone therapy is about restoring your confidence, energy, and quality of life. But that only happens when you’re working with a TRT clinic that treats you like a whole person, not a quick sale.

If you’ve experienced any of the red flags above, or if you’re just starting your search for a provider, make sure you’re asking the right questions. You deserve a team that listens, educates, and puts your health first at every step of the process.

At Victory Men’s Health, we start with comprehensive lab testing to get an accurate picture of your needs before moving forward with a customized treatment plan. Ready to see what personalized hormone optimization should look like?

Book a consultation today to start your testosterone therapy journey and take the first step in feeling like yourself again.

Men & Progesterone: Why You Should Avoid This Hormone Like the Plague

Posted on April 22, 2025April 22, 2025 by AmyADMIN

If you’ve been digging into hormone optimization lately, you might’ve come across some surprising (and misleading) advice about men and progesterone. Between online forums and one-size-fits-all treatment plans, there’s a growing wave of confusion.

One of the more concerning health trends we’ve seen lately? Men being told to take progesterone.

Yes, progesterone, the hormone best known for supporting pregnancy in women. Some men are getting tested, seeing “low” numbers, and assuming it needs to be raised. But progesterone has no business being in a man’s supplement or treatment plan, and we’re here to explain why.

We recently sat down with Dr. Lauren Fitz and Kristi Hales on the Women Want Strong Men podcast to discuss why progesterone is not only unnecessary, but potentially dangerous for men. Check it out below, then keep reading for more on why you should avoid this hormone.

What is Progesterone? Why Do Women Need It, But Not Men?

Let’s start with the basics. Progesterone is a pro-gestational hormone, which means its primary role is to support fertility and pregnancy. It’s naturally produced in large amounts in women, particularly during the second half of the menstrual cycle and during pregnancy.

Men have trace amounts of progesterone, but it serves little to no functional purpose in the male endocrine system. Those low levels are normal, natural, and necessary—they don’t need to be fixed or “optimized.”

Unlike testosterone, which fuels energy, libido, muscle mass, and mood in men, progesterone plays no supportive role in men’s health. When it’s added in through supplementation, it can throw your system way out of balance. In the next section, we’ll explain why.

Why Progesterone Is Dangerous for Men

While men naturally produce small amounts of progesterone—and that’s completely normal—taking progesterone as a supplement can actually work against your health goals. Unlike what some misguided advice might suggest, supplementing with progesterone can interfere with key functions like testosterone production, blood flow, and metabolism.

It’s one of the few hormones where the potential downsides far outweigh any perceived benefits, and most men have no idea what they’re walking into when they start taking it. Let’s take a closer look at why progesterone is dangerous for men.

Side Effects of Progesterone in Men

When men take progesterone, they may experience:

Inflammation – Progesterone raises inflammatory markers in men, which increases the risk of heart disease and other chronic conditions.
Cardiovascular risk – According to pharmacist Kristi Hales, it can directly raise your risk of a major cardiovascular event.
Metabolic dysfunction – Supplementing progesterone can worsen blood sugar regulation and increase body fat, especially around the midsection.
Hormonal suppression – It can suppress testosterone production, worsening symptoms of low T rather than fixing them.
Mood and energy crashes – Many men feel more fatigued, emotionally flat, or even depressed after taking progesterone.

Progesterone and Erectile Dysfunction

If you’re taking progesterone and wondering why your libido disappeared—it’s probably because progesterone kills the male sex drive. In fact, it was once used as a chemical castration tool in prisons. As Kristi Hales pointed out on the Women Want Strong Men podcast, “If you want to cash in on a man’s life insurance policy, give him progesterone.”

Along with suppressing libido, progesterone can also cause erectile dysfunction by interfering with nitric oxide and testosterone pathways.

Sure, some guys report deeper sleep from progesterone, but that’s not worth sacrificing your sex drive or cardiovascular health. There are safer, more effective ways to support sleep (like melatonin, diet changes, or optimizing testosterone).

Progesterone & Hormone Forums: Misinformation Alert

A quick browse through TRT forums or online male hormone groups will show just how common the misinformation is. Men are testing progesterone levels, seeing that they’re “low,” and assuming they need to raise them. But guess what?

Progesterone is supposed to be low in men.

It’s not something that needs to be “brought into range.” Measuring it can be misleading, and supplementing it based on numbers alone is risky business. Worse, some hormone academies and lesser-known training programs are still recommending it, despite the lack of evidence and growing list of harmful side effects.

As Dr. Lauren Fitz and Kristi Hales emphasized on the podcast: if your healthcare provider is recommending progesterone for men, that’s a red flag. It shows a serious lack of understanding of male hormone physiology.

Why You Should Avoid Progesterone Supplements at All Costs

Let’s be clear: no reputable hormone specialist or evidence-based clinic will ever recommend progesterone to a man. If you’re working with someone who’s pushing it—or you’re seeing it recommended in a Facebook group or Reddit thread—it’s time to run the other way.

The risks aren’t just theoretical. Supplementing progesterone as a man can:

Worsen your testosterone levels
Cause sexual dysfunction
Increase your risk of heart attack or stroke
Leave you feeling foggy, inflamed, and fatigued

There are zero clinical benefits and plenty of potential downsides. There’s simply no upside here—progesterone has no role in male hormone optimization.

So, How Do I Improve My Health as a Man?

“If progesterone isn’t the answer…what is?” Don’t worry, there are powerful, proven ways to support your hormones, energy, libido, and overall well-being without putting your health at risk.

At Victory Men’s Health, we take a holistic, science-backed approach to hormone optimization. That means focusing on what actually works based on real labs, clinical research, and years of experience helping men feel like themselves again.

Here are some of the ways you can improve your health (without progesterone):

Optimize testosterone – Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) can dramatically improve mood, strength, libido, and stamina if your levels are low.
Support thyroid function – Thyroid plays a major role in metabolism and energy, and many providers miss the mark by not testing Free T3.
Lower visceral fat – Excess visceral fat raises inflammation and crushes hormone health. It’s most accurately measured with a DEXA scan, but the InBody scales in our clinics also quantify visceral fat, making it easy to track your progress over time.
Clean up your lifestyle – Diet, sleep, exercise, and removing endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs) can significantly improve hormone balance.
Work with a qualified provider – Partner with providers who understand male hormones, track real labs, and customize your care, like our team.

Men & Progesterone: What Our Patients Ask

Is Progesterone Ever Safe for Men to Take?

No. There’s no known clinical benefit for men supplementing progesterone. The risks far outweigh any potential use, including increased inflammation and suppressed testosterone.

Why Are Some Providers Still Prescribing It?

Some hormone academies or outdated training programs still recommend progesterone for men, but the science doesn’t support it. If your provider suggests it, get a second opinion.

What Are Signs I’ve Been Negatively Affected by Progesterone?

Loss of libido, erectile dysfunction, fatigue, mood changes, or unexplained inflammation could all be side effects. If you’re a man taking progesterone, stop supplementation and start questioning your provider.

Can Progesterone Lower Testosterone?

Yes. Progesterone can suppress the body’s production of testosterone, leading to worsened symptoms of low T and hormonal imbalance.

What’s the Right Approach for Men Over 40 with Hormone Issues?

A personalized plan that goes beyond just testosterone. Men often need to optimize multiple hormones affected by age-related decline—including DHEA, pregnenolone, melatonin, and testosterone (which also impacts estradiol and DHT levels).

The most effective approach combines comprehensive hormone support, metabolic testing, and lifestyle improvements, designed by a provider who specializes in men’s health.

Get Real Answers About Your Hormones

Don’t fall for the hype, forums, or misguided protocols. Progesterone is not the hormone you’ve been missing. It’s also not the solution to your fatigue, low libido, or sleep issues. At Victory Men’s Health, we help men get real answers with advanced testing, hormone therapy, and personalized treatment plans crafted by a team that actually understands male physiology.

No dangerous trends or unnecessary supplements, just science-backed care that helps you feel strong, sharp, and in control again. Ready to get real answers about your hormones so you can start feeling like the best version of yourself?