From what is DHEA naturally produced?

Dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) is a hormone that is naturally produced from cholesterol by the adrenal glands. Cholesterol serves as the precursor for the biosynthesis of steroid hormones, including DHEA. The process begins with cholesterol being converted into pregnenolone, which is then transformed into various hormones, including DHEA.

This understanding highlights the significance of cholesterol in hormone production and explains why the adrenal glands, as the site of DHEA production, rely on cholesterol to synthesize this important steroid hormone. Understanding the connection between DHEA and cholesterol can also clarify the broader implications of dietary fats and their role in hormone balance within the body.