Australian researchers have found evidence to suggest that the popular anti-aging supplement DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) may increase the risk of developing heart disease. Dr David S Celermajer of the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital in Sydney, and colleagues found that DHEA appears to increase the formation of cells known as foam cells, which are known to contribute to the development of artery-clogging arterial plaques. Thus suggesting that DHEA may well increase the risk of heart disease. Celermajer and colleagues conclude: “Further basic and clinical studies are required to further elucidate the potentially adverse cardiovascular effects of DHEA.”
SOURCE/REFERENCE: J Am Coll Cardiol 2003;42:1967-1974.