The sex and adrenal hormones are made from cholesterol!  They are not only manufactured in the testes/ovaries and adrenal glands–many cells can make these hormones internally, which often is not reflected in blood, saliva or urine tests. For this reason, Dr. Cheikin uses the body itself (and it’s symptoms) to monitor response.

Pregnenolone is the “grandmother” of sterol hormones, all which begin with cholesterol (and why cholesterol can go up during stress and hypothyroidism). It is then made into many adrenal and sex hormones, including progesterones, estrogens, testosterones, cortisones, aldosterone and others.

It is also considered a “neurohormone” or more specifically a “neurosteroid” because it bridges the nervous and hormonal systems.

DHEA is considered the beginning of sex hormones, since both testosterone and estrogen is made from this precursor. 

Pregnenolone and DHEA are available as supplements, but they are still hormones with potentially powerful effects. Dosing and timing of pregnenolone and DHEA has a wide range and timings from early morning to late at night. Working with an experienced practitioner can help optimize outcome and avoid the pitfalls of this subtle but powerful hormone.

When considering any hormone, its best to consider it as part of a complex network.  Each hormone is modulated by many other hormones, binding molecules, receptors, genetics and epigenetics, creating a complex symphony which we can hear but not conduct!  For the main adrenal page which will give you the important basic information, click here.