Cortisol/DHEA Ratio
What This Test Measures
Balance between stress hormone (cortisol) and resilience hormone (DHEA)
Conventional vs. Functional Optimal Range
The gap between these ranges is why you feel terrible with "normal" labs. Conventional medicine waits for disease. Functional medicine optimizes for health.
Gabriel's Take
Cortisol/DHEA ratio reflects stress resilience. High ratio (>10:1) = chronic stress, "adrenal fatigue," accelerated aging. Low DHEA or high cortisol both problematic. Functional optimal ratio ~5-7:1. Optimize with stress management and adaptogens (ashwagandha, rhodiola); DHEA supplements are a clinician's decision.
When This Test Is High
High ratio: chronic stress, HPA dysfunction, low DHEA
When This Test Is Low
Low ratio: cortisol deficiency or DHEA excess (rare)
Related Conditions
Chronic stress, adrenal dysfunction, burnout
Recommended Follow-Up
Optimize both cortisol (circadian rhythm) and DHEA-S; lifestyle, adaptogenic herbs
Related Tests in Comprehensive Panels
Comprehensive Metabolic Panel (CMP)
Glucose, kidney function (BUN, creatinine), electrolytes (Na, K, Cl, CO2), calcium
Liver Function Panel
Liver health: enzymes (ALT, AST, ALP), protein production (albumin), bilirubin
Kidney Function Panel
Kidney filtration and waste removal