What is the cortisol-to-DHEA ratio?

The ratio of cortisol to DHEA-S is a useful indicator of stress resilience. A high ratio (elevated cortisol relative to DHEA) suggests chronic stress is shifting adrenal output toward cortisol at the expense of DHEA. Tracking both monthly reveals this pattern.

What is the cortisol-to-DHEA ratio?

The ratio of cortisol to DHEA-S is a useful indicator of stress resilience. A high ratio (elevated cortisol relative to DHEA) suggests chronic stress is shifting adrenal output toward cortisol at the expense of DHEA. Tracking both monthly reveals this pattern.

Home Biomarkers Hormone BalanceDHEA-S

Hormones & Vitality

DHEA-S

The most abundant adrenal hormone — a precursor to testosterone and estrogen and a marker of stress resilience.

Optimal target100–400 µg/dL (age-dependent)

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What it measures

DHEA-S (dehydroepiandrosterone sulfate) is produced by the adrenal glands and serves as a storage reservoir that the body converts into testosterone and estrogen as needed. It is the most abundant circulating steroid hormone.

Because DHEA-S reflects adrenal output, it is a useful marker of adrenal function and stress resilience. It peaks in your mid-20s and declines steadily with age.

Why it matters

Serves as a precursor to both testosterone and estrogen, supporting hormonal balance.
Reflects adrenal function and the body's capacity to buffer stress.
Declines with age; low levels are associated with fatigue, low mood, and reduced resilience.
Useful for evaluating adrenal insufficiency or, conversely, adrenal androgen excess.

What affects your levels

Age (steady decline after the mid-20s)

Chronic stress (can deplete DHEA-S over time)

Adrenal health

Certain medications and supplements

How VitalDrop tracks it

Monthly tracking reveals age-related decline and stress-related depletion.
Paired with cortisol to assess the cortisol-to-DHEA ratio — a key stress-resilience metric.
Trends help evaluate whether lifestyle or supplement changes are supporting adrenal function.

Related biomarkers

Cortisol Total Testosterone Estradiol (E2)

Frequently asked questions

DHEA supplementation should only be undertaken with clinician supervision, as it can convert to testosterone or estrogen unpredictably and is contraindicated in certain hormone-sensitive conditions. VitalDrop provides the data; treatment decisions belong with your healthcare provider.

References & sources

01.

DHEA and DHEA-S: Physiology and Clinical Significance. Endocrine Reviews, 2019.

02.

The Cortisol-to-DHEA Ratio and Stress. Psychoneuroendocrinology, 2020.

Medically reviewed by

Reviewed by Dr. Hassan Nasser

Medical Director — www.detroitfacemd.com

Board-certified facial plastic & reconstructive surgeon; clinical reviewer for VitalDrop laboratory insights. Verified at www.detroitfacemd.com

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Track DHEA-S monthly

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Medical disclaimer: This content is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. VitalDrop provides laboratory test results and educational insights for wellness tracking. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider regarding abnormal or concerning results. Results and AI-assisted summaries are not a medical diagnosis.