HGH – human growth hormones – are they really that great?

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Endocrine_central_nervous_system
Endocrine_central_nervous_system responsible for controlling hormones

HGH releasers

Growth hormone (GH) is a small protein that is made by the pituitary gland and secreted into the bloodstream. According to Harvard Medical School, a complex set of hormones produced in the hypothalamus of the brain and the intestinal tract and pancreas control the production of GH. (1)

Growth hormone is naturally produced and essential for the growth and repair of the body. It is a highly anabolic hormone and boosts muscle and tissue construction, making it useful for athletes and bodybuilders.

Banned in the UK, synthetic HGH is a category C drug. Synthetic HGH is injected subcutaneously (under the skin) or intramuscularly (into the muscle). Bodybuilders and gym-goers primarily use it, but some athletes use them too.

The long term side effects are not fully understood but could cause severe complications, especially if bought off the internet according to Aimi Veness speaking to Mail Online. (2)

HGH also comes in the form of pills and sprays; marketed to have the same effects as the injected form. These claims are not proven.

Benefits

  • Enhances muscle strength
  • Promotes weight loss

Enhances muscle strength

HGH may increase individual physical capacity by stimulating collagen production in the skeletal muscle and tendons, improving muscle strength and exercise performance.

In a study by the International Journal of Endocrinology, 14 healthy men split into two groups of 7; one group received a placebo and the other HGH. It found that individuals taking HGH had an increase in the leg press muscle responsiveness.  (3)

Promotes weight loss

Taking a low dose of HGH and consuming a restricted diet speeds up body fat loss, improves growth hormone secretory dysfunction and exerts an anabolic effect in obese adults.

In a study, 24 obese people were put on a restricted diet and given low doses of HGH to test how it affects weight loss. The results show that those on HGH had an increase in lean body mass and a decrease in fat. (4)

Amino Acids

Some of the most popular supplements for promoting the release of growth hormones are amino acids such as glutamine, ornithine, arginine, and tyrosine.

In supplements, L-arginine is linked with L-ornithine as they work well together and are complimentary. Beginners can benefit from faster results, improved recovery, and reduced soreness after training.

Some things to consider

Older people who have a decline in human growth hormones may receive HGH. Individuals with specific health problems produce insufficient amounts and may be prescribed HGH by a doctor.

Before taking any supplements or drugs, consult your doctor for advice.

According to the Mayo Clinic, human growth hormone might cause several side effects in healthy adults, including carpal tunnel syndrome, increased insulin resistance, swelling in the arms and legs (oedema), muscle and joint pain and enlargement of breast tissue in men. (5)

Resources

  1. https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/growth-hormone-athletic-performance-and-aging
  2. https://www.dailymail.co.uk/femail/article-3146497/Crippled-elixir-youth-Human-growth-hormone-sold-online-anti-ageing-wonder-drug-special-report-reveals-dark-side.html
  3. https://www.hindawi.com/journals/ije/2013/942030/
  4. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/10352397
  5. https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/healthy-aging/in-depth/growth-hormone/art-20045735?pg=2