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Cortisol-to-DHEAS Ratio

Meaning

The Cortisol-to-DHEAS Ratio is a significant clinical metric that quantifies the relationship between the circulating levels of the catabolic stress hormone cortisol and the anabolic adrenal androgen dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate (DHEAS). This ratio serves as a reliable indicator of adrenal gland balance and the body’s overall allostatic load, reflecting the dynamic tension between catabolic and anabolic processes within the endocrine system. Clinically, a persistently elevated ratio often suggests a state of chronic stress, HPA axis dysregulation, or a significant metabolic shift toward catabolism, which can negatively impact immune function and longevity. Monitoring this specific ratio provides a valuable, integrated tool for assessing endocrine resilience and the systemic impact of various lifestyle factors.