DHEA (7-Keto)
7-Keto DHEA is a fat-burning metabolite of the hormone DHEA. DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is a precursor hormone to the production of estrogen and testosterone in the body. DHEA converts to 150 different metabolites in the body with each one having unique physical actions within the body. 7-Keto is one of those metabolites.
7-Keto (3-acety-7-oxo-dehydroepiandros-terone) boosts immune function and helps reduce body fat. Unlike DHEA, 7-Keto does not convert to estrogen and testosterone. It is produced primarily in the adrenal glands and skin. Studies have demonstrated that 7-Keto does not accumulate in the body over time and is free of unhealthy side effects.
Like DHEA, bloods levels of 7-keto rise until about age 20 and then slowly decrease beginning around the age of 30. Urinary excretion studies show that average blood concentrations of 7-Keto decline nearly 50% by age 50. This reduction in 7-Keto levels is partially responsible for increases in body fat and total body weight often seen in older people. Immune function is also somewhat compromised because of this drop in 7-keto.
7-Keto produces fat loss through a process called thermogenesis. This term refers to the creation of heat, which is one of the forms of energy produced when the body’s cells metabolize the food we eat. Greater amounts of thermogenesis boost the body’s metabolic rate which increases the conversion of stored fat into energy.
7-Keto enhances the activity of three thermogenic enzymes that stimulate fatty acid oxidation in the liver. These enzymes drive the liver cells to burn fatty acids for energy. This causes a lowering of triglycerides in the liver. Supplementation with 7-Keto has a dramatic effect on boosting levels of these thermogenic enhancing enzymes. Studies have found increases of 128%, 860% and 138% in the enzymes involved in this process.
The best time to take 7-Keto is in the morning, when the body’s natural production of this substance peaks. This ensures that more plentiful levels of this hormone will be available consistent with the body’s natural cycle. People should avoid taking 7-Keto in the evening, as high blood levels at bedtime could stimulate brain activity and cause insomnia. Because 7-Keto is a natural hormone metabolite and is easily assimilated, it can be taken with a meal or on an empty stomach. Consistent daily dosing is important to ensure a stable level of 7-Keto in the bloodstream.
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