Human growth hormone (HGH), also known as somatotropin, is a peptide hormone that stimulates growth, cell reproduction, and cell regeneration. HGH is naturally produced in the pituitary gland and plays a key role in growth during childhood.
Is HGH natural? HGH production peaks during puberty and declines from early adulthood onwards. As we age, HGH levels steadily fall. By the time we are 60 years old, we make only about 25% as much HGH as we did in our 20s. This age-related decline in HGH is a natural part of aging.
- Some key points on natural HGH:
- HGH is essential for normal development and growth in children and adolescents. In youth, the pituitary gland releases up to 700 micrograms of HGH daily, on average. This stimulates growth of bone and cartilage.
- HGH levels start dropping after the end of puberty. The natural decrease over time is gradual at a rate of about 14% per decade.
- Lifestyle factors like sleep, diet, exercise and stress influence HGH secretion. But the overall age-related decline is considered natural.
HGH deficiency becomes more common as we get older. By age 60, up to 30% adults may have very low or deficient HGH levels.
- Symptoms of adult HGH deficiency include:
- Increased body fat, especially abdominal fat
- Muscle loss and decreased bone density
- Wrinkling skin and thinning hair
- Decreased energy and sexual function
- Higher LDL cholesterol and cardiac issues
HGH treatment involves daily injections of recombinant synthetic HGH or implantable pellets that steadily release set doses. Getting a hormone panel test is crucial before starting any hormone therapy. Treatment progress and effects are monitored through follow-up blood tests.
- Key benefits reported are:
- Increased muscle mass, bone density and exercise capacity
- Weight loss, especially decreased belly fat
- Smoother skin, thicker hair and stronger nails
- Improved mood and cognitive function
- Greater motivation, energy and endurance
- Enhanced libido and sexual performance
However, HGH therapy has some
side effects like
joint pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, insulin resistance and higher cancer risk. It should
not be used without medical oversight and bloodwork monitoring. Costs are high since HGH is a complex injectable treatment. Significant benefits are dose and age-dependent. Responsible HGH therapy aims to gently raise IGF-1 levels just enough to relieve deficiency symptoms without increasing health issues.
So in summary, some key points:
- HGH declines naturally with age after peaking during adolescence and young adulthood
- Restoring HGH may help counteract symptoms like decreased muscle mass, bone loss, fatigue and sexual dysfunction
- Any HGH supplementation should be carefully managed under a doctor's supervision with ongoing bloodwork
I hope this detailed answer clearly explains that, while growth hormone decreases over time are natural, HGH treatment can potentially provide helpful benefits when correctly administered for deficiency symptoms. Let me know if you need any clarification or have additional questions!