Hormone Metabolite
This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before starting any supplement. Full disclaimer
7-Keto DHEA at 200 mg/day showed significant weight and body fat loss in two small RCTs when combined with exercise and calorie restriction. Zenk et al. (2007, n=33) found 7-Keto groups lost 2.88 kg more than placebo over 8 weeks. However, the evidence base is very small and industry-funded.
7-Keto DHEA has a plausible mechanism (thyroid/mitochondrial metabolic boost) and two positive RCTs, but the evidence base is very small, industry-funded, and both studies are from the same research group. No independent replication exists. The non-hormonal profile is a genuine advantage over DHEA. More research is needed before confident recommendations can be made.
7-Keto DHEA has a plausible mechanism (thyroid/mitochondrial metabolic boost) and two positive RCTs, but the evidence base is very small, industry-funded, and both studies are from the same research group.
| Form | Bioavailability | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| 7-Keto DHEA Capsules | Moderate | Standard oral supplementation — the form used in both clinical trials |
| 3-Acetyl-7-Keto DHEA | Moderate | Acetylated form that may have improved stability |
General recommendation: 100 mg twice daily (200 mg total) with meals
Timing: Take with breakfast and lunch; avoid evening dosing • Take with food for best absorption.
| Condition | Recommended Dose | Evidence |
|---|---|---|
| Weight management | 200 mg daily in two divided doses | Preliminary |
Upper limit: 200 mg/day is the dose used in trials; higher doses not studied
Safety profile: Generally Safe
7-Keto is a metabolite of DHEA but does not convert to sex hormones (testosterone, estrogen). This is its key advantage — you get potential metabolic benefits without hormonal side effects. DHEA itself can increase sex hormones, which may be unwanted. 7-Keto is considered safer for long-term use.
The evidence is limited. Two small RCTs (33 and 45 subjects) from the same research group showed positive results. There are no large, independent trials. The studies were also industry-funded. While results are promising, the evidence base is too small for confident recommendations.
7-Keto may be banned by some sports organizations (WADA lists DHEA metabolites). Athletes subject to drug testing should check with their sport's governing body before using 7-Keto. It is not a controlled substance for general consumer use.