7-KETO for Weight Control
7-KETO (3-acetyl-7-oxo-dehydroepiandrosterone) is a naturally occurring metabolite (breakdown product) of the hormone dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA).1 DHEA is the most abundant of the adrenal steroid hormones and serves as a precursor for sex hormones, such as estrogen and testosterone.
Why Do Dieters Use It?*
Some dieters say that 7-KETO helps promote weight loss, when used along with a diet and exercise program.
What Do the Advocates Say?*
- DHEA (dehydroepiandrosterone) is used by the body as a building block in the production of estrogen, testosterone, and progesterone. Only those who have been tested and found to be low in DHEA should consider taking this supplement; for these people, 7-Keto (3-acetyl-7-oxo-dehydroepiandrosterone) may improve metabolism and energy levels.
- While 7-KETO was developed to avoid the potential hormone-like effects of DHEA, it is still important to consult a physician familiar with its use.
- Some users have reported feeling “jittery” after taking as little as 100 mg of 7-Keto per day.
How Much Is Usually Taken by Dieters?
The ability of 7-KETO, a substance related to DHEA, to promote weight loss in overweight people has been investigated in one double-blind trial.2 Participants in the trial were advised to exercise three times per week for 45 minutes and to eat an 1,800-calorie-per-day diet. Each person was given either a placebo or 100 mg of 7-KETO twice daily. After eight weeks, those receiving 7-KETO had lost more weight and lowered their percentage of body fat further compared to those taking a placebo. These results may have been due to increases in levels of a thyroid hormone (T3) that plays a major role in determining a person’s metabolic rate, although the levels of T3 did not exceed the normal range.