7-Keto DHEA

7-Keto DHEA is a non-hormonal metabolite of DHEA that cannot convert to testosterone or estrogen (unlike parent DHEA). Marketed for fat loss via increased metabolic rate. CAUTION: Available human studies have significant conflicts of interest (funded by supplement manufacturers). D-grade evidence only. May increase thyroid hormone activity (T3/T4) and have anti-cortisol effects. Does NOT affect sex hormones. The evidence base is weak and potentially biased - claims exceed proven benefits.

Quick Answer

What it is

7-Keto DHEA is a non-hormonal metabolite of DHEA that cannot convert to testosterone or estrogen (unlike parent DHEA). Marketed for fat loss via increased metabolic rate.

Key findings

  • Grade D: Body Fat (Obesity)
  • Grade D: Metabolic Rate (Obesity)
  • Grade D: Blood Glucose (Obesity)

Safety

  • CAUTION: Available human studies have significant conflicts of interest (funded by supplement manufacturers).
ℹ️ Quick Facts: 7-Keto DHEA

Quick Facts: 7-Keto DHEA

  • Best Evidence:Grade D
  • Conditions Studied:2
  • Research Outcomes:22
  • Key Effect:Obesity
Outcomes by grade:
A0
B0
C0
D8
2 conditions · 22 outcomes

Detailed Outcomes

D
Body Fat
Possible fat loss but study has conflict of interest
1 study
smallImproves
D
Metabolic Rate
Possible increase in resting metabolic rate - manufacturer funded
smallImproves
D
Blood Glucose
No effect on blood glucose
1 study
none
D
Blood Pressure
No effect on blood pressure
1 study
none
D
Testosterone
No effect on testosterone levels (expected - non-hormonal)
1 study
none
D
Estrogen
No effect on estrogen levels (expected - non-hormonal)
1 study
none
D
Blood glucose
No effect
1 study
none
?
Fatigue Symptoms
1 study
Worsens
?
Parathyroid Hormone
1 study
Improves
?
Serum T3
1 study
Improves
?
Serum T4
1 study
Improves
?
Weight
1 study
Worsens
D
Blood glucose
No effect
1 study
none
?
Blood Pressure
1 study
Worsens
?
Body Fat
1 study
Worsens
?
Estrogen
1 study
Worsens
?
Fatigue Symptoms
1 study
Worsens
?
Parathyroid Hormone
1 study
Improves
?
Serum T3
1 study
Improves
?
Serum T4
1 study
Improves
?
Testosterone
1 study
Improves
?
Weight
1 study
Worsens

Related Supplements

Whey Protein

2 shared conditions · 197 outcomes

Whey protein is one of the two high-quality proteins derived from cow’s milk (casein being the other). Its high digestibility, quick absorption, and well-researched benefits for muscle gain and cardiometabolic health make it a popular protein supplement among athletes and older adults.

Vitamin D

2 shared conditions · 308 outcomes

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that our skin synthesizes when exposed to the sun. It benefits us in many ways, from bone health to mood.

Vanadium

2 shared conditions · 18 outcomes

Vanadium is a mineral that is not one of the Essential Mineral compounds, but is sometimes ingested in the diet. Can be found in bone tissues, Vanadium may influence glucose metabolism in an anti-diabetic manner.

Taurine

2 shared conditions · 52 outcomes

Taurine is a sulfur-containing amino acid that is not involved in protein synthesis but is essential to cardiovascular function and the development and function of the brain, retina, and skeletal muscle.

Tart Cherry Juice

2 shared conditions · 54 outcomes

Tart cherry juice is best known for its antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects. It seems to improve exercise recovery and possibly sleep quality. More evidence is needed to determine whether it is helpful for gout management.

Spirulina

2 shared conditions · 304 outcomes

Spirulina, commonly known as “blue-green algae”, is a nontoxic cyanobacterium that is rich in various nutrients and bioactive pigments and polyphenols. Spirulina contains many antioxidant compounds and could have beneficial cardiometabolic effects.

Saffron

2 shared conditions · 390 outcomes

Saffron is a spice with antioxidant properties derived from the flowering plant Crocus sativus. When used as a supplement, saffron seems to be effective at reducing symptoms of depression and possibly anxiety.

Rose Hip

2 shared conditions · 86 outcomes

Rose hip, the fruit of Rosa canina, is a dietary supplement for joint health. It can alleviate symptoms of arthritis if taken daily.