Pregnenolone

Pregnenolone is a neurohormone. This means it serves hormonal functions in the body, including as a precursor to DHEA, testosterone, estrogen, progesterone and corticosteroids. And as with other hormones, our pregnenolone levels decrease with age.^1,2 But pregnenolone also affects the central nervous system, so it is not surprising that it is tied to cognition, memory and mood.^3-5

Pregnenolone and body chemistry

Pregnenolone is the precursor to a whole family of hormones, including DHEA, testosterone, glucocorticoids, progesterone and estrogens. This is why it can help the body maintain youthful hormone levels, promoting vitality and healthy function.

Maintain mental focus and mood

Pregnenolone modulates brain plasticity and promotes brain cell health to help maintain healthy cognitive function, attention and memory performance.^4-7 Pregnenolone can help promote healthy mood as well.^8,9

References

1. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2002;87(5):2225-31.
2. Clin Chem Lab Med. 1999;37(4):439-47.
3. J Steroid Biochem Mol Biol. 2016;160:78-87.
4. Psychopharmacology (Berl). 2014;231(17):3537-56.
5. Trends Endocrinol Metab. 2008;19(8):300-7.
6. Steroids. 2016;111:54-59.
7. Horm Behav. 2001;40(2):215-7.
8. Neuropsychopharmacology : official publication of the American College of Neuropsychopharmacology. 2014;39(12):2867-2873.
9. Psychiatry Res. 2010;178(2):309-12.