This important hormone is actually a precursor to DHEA and other anabolic hormones in the body, and researchers theorize that supplements of this building-block steroid may mean less DHEA is required.

Prepnenolone plays an important role in balancing the biochemical mechanisms in the body. Biochemical metabolism can be thought of as a dynamic equilibrium between anabolic processes (those that break down body tissue). In healthy, young individuals these processes are maintained in optimum balance by an array of controls, which include the steroid hormones. However, as the body ages, the balance between these two processes alters. Levels of steroids, such as DHEA and pregnenolone, decrease.

Pregnenolone has been shown in a number of studies to have a positive effect on brain function, including mood, memory, and cognition. Studies also show that pregnenolone may be helpful for those undergoing extreme physical and mental stress, such as athletes. Researchers believe it may have the ability to increase energy and enhance the body's recuperative abilities after exercise.