The quest to always look young is not a new thing. In fact, the mythical ‘Fountain of Youth’ was a tale that can be traced back to the 5th century BC. But while there may not actually be a physical body of water that will turn back the clock, there is a lot of emerging scientific research that is shedding light on both lifestyle changes, diets, and supplements that can actually provide us a partial pathways to looking younger for longer periods of time.
One focus that has been making waves across wellness communities and beyond is Human Growth Hormone (HGH). This powerful hormone, naturally produced by the pituitary gland, is pivotal in regulating growth, body composition, and the repair and regeneration of cells. However, as we age, our bodies produce less HGH, leading to inevitable signs of aging that affect our ability to build muscle, burn fat, energy levels, and overall health.
The decline in HGH levels has sparked a growing interest in supplementation, promising not just to slow the aging process but to reverse some of its effects. From improved muscle mass and bone density to enhanced metabolism and recovery, the benefits of boosting HGH levels have captured the imagination of many. But what exactly is HGH, and why does its production decrease with age? What are the real benefits of HGH supplementation, and how does one navigate the myriad of options available, from injections to homeopathic remedies?
What is Human Growth Hormone (HGH)?
HGH, also known as somatotropin, is a peptide hormone that stimulates growth, cell reproduction, and cell regeneration in humans. It plays a key role in human development, influencing height and bone growth in children and adolescents. Beyond its critical role in physical growth, HGH impacts body composition, muscle and bone strength, metabolism, and the heart's health.
HGH is produced by the pituitary gland, located at the base of the brain. Its production is regulated by various factors, including sleep, nutrition, exercise, and stress levels. The release of HGH is not constant; it spikes during deep sleep and after exercise.
As we age, the pituitary gland gradually reduces the amount of HGH it produces. This decline is a natural part of aging and is part of the reason why muscle mass decreases with age, metabolism slows, and many individuals experience a reduction in vitality and overall health.
The Benefits of Increasing HGH Levels
These benefits, supported by various studies, highlight HGH's role not only in physical rejuvenation but also in cognitive and emotional health. Here’s a closer look at the key benefits:
Improved Muscle Strength and Physical Performance
Research shows that HGH can improve physical capacity by stimulating collagen synthesis in skeletal muscle and tendons, thus increasing muscle strength and enhancing exercise performance. One study published in the Journal of Endocrinology [1] observed a significant increase in lower body muscle strength, with an 8.3% increase in quadriceps strength over six months. Additionally, a 2002 study in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism [2] found that while HGH alone or combined with resistance training did not significantly augment muscle strength in elderly men, it altered muscle fiber composition by modifying myosin heavy chain isoforms.
Enhanced Weight Loss and Improved Body Composition
In a pivotal study from the New England Journal of Medicine [3], participants experienced a mean reduction of 1.6 kg in body fat and an increase of 1.7 kg in lean mass over six months, with minimal changes in overall weight. Further, a 1997 study in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism [4] on abdominally obese men demonstrated that HGH treatment led to a reduction of 8.8% in visceral fat and improved diastolic blood pressure by an average decrease of 1.6 mmHg, showcasing HGH’s broad metabolic benefits.
Potential Anti-Aging Effects: Skin Health, Energy Levels, and Overall Vitality
According to a study in Clinical Interventions in Aging [5], patients reported improvements in skin thickness by 7.1% and skin elasticity by 20.1% after six months of HGH therapy. The 2009 American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists’ guidelines [6] cited in Endocrine Practice underscore that HGH supplementation is linked to enhanced feelings of vitality, though specific numerical improvements in energy levels are not detailed.
Bone Health and the Role of HGH in Preventing Osteoporosis
HGH has been studied for its role in bone health, with findings suggesting it significantly increases bone density. According to research published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism [7], postmenopausal women receiving HGH showed a 2.5% increase in spinal bone density and a 1.6% increase in hip bone density over a period of 12 months. These changes suggest that HGH can be beneficial in maintaining bone density and preventing osteoporosis.
Possible Cognitive and Mood Benefits
Emerging evidence suggests that HGH may benefit cognitive function and mood. A review in Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment [8] reported that patients undergoing HGH therapy showed improved cognitive function scores by an average of 5.4 points on standardized tests, along with better mood ratings. These benefits indicate a promising potential for HGH in enhancing mental health, although more research is needed for conclusive results. Additionally, a study in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism [9] found that men with higher levels of IGF-I, influenced by HGH, performed better on cognitive function tests, correlating higher HGH levels with enhanced cognitive abilities.
Traditional Treatments for Low HGH and Understanding the Risks
HGH injections are the most common form of treatment for growth hormone deficiency. This therapy involves administering synthetic HGH via injections to replace or supplement the natural growth hormone produced by the pituitary gland. These injections are typically given several times a week or daily, depending on the severity of the deficiency.
The effectiveness of HGH injections in treating growth hormone deficiency is well-documented. In children, these injections can promote growth and help achieve normal adult height. In adults, HGH therapy can increase energy, improve muscle mass and bone density, and enhance quality of life. However, the administration of HGH must be carefully monitored by healthcare professionals to avoid adverse effects.
Potential Risks and Side Effects of HGH Injections
While HGH injections can provide significant benefits, they also come with potential risks and side effects, especially when doses are not properly adjusted or monitored:
Joint and Muscle Pain: High doses of HGH can lead to pain in muscles and joints. This discomfort is often due to the rapid growth effects induced by the hormone.
Edema (Fluid Retention): HGH can cause the body to retain fluid, leading to swelling, particularly in the arms and legs.
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome: As fluid accumulates, it can put pressure on nerves, particularly in the wrist, leading to carpal tunnel syndrome characterized by numbness and tingling in the hands.
Increased Insulin Resistance: Prolonged use of HGH can affect the body's ability to use insulin effectively, potentially leading to type 2 diabetes.
Elevated Cholesterol Levels: HGH may increase LDL cholesterol and decrease HDL cholesterol, leading to an increased risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Risk of Cancer: There are ongoing concerns about the long-term use of synthetic HGH possibly increasing the risk of certain cancers. This risk is thought to be due to HGH’s role in cell growth and regeneration.
Given the potential risks associated with HGH therapy, it is crucial for treatment to be overseen by healthcare professionals. Regular follow-ups and monitoring are necessary to adjust dosages and minimize side effects. Blood tests, regular check-ups, and constant evaluation help ensure that the benefits of the therapy outweigh the risks.
Alternative Options for HGH Supplementation
While traditional HGH injections are effective, they require a prescription and medical supervision. For those seeking less invasive options or alternatives to injections, there are several over-the-counter products and supplements that claim to support the body's natural production of HGH. An example of a couple products are GenF20 Plus and NewU Life's SomaDerm Gel. Here, we explore these alternative HGH supplementation options, their claimed benefits, and considerations.
Oral Supplements such as GenF20 Plus
GenF20 Plus is one of a number of dietary supplements aimed to naturally stimulate HGH production. This particular product is available in pill and oral spray forms and contains a blend of amino acids, herbs, and nutrients that are touted to enhance pituitary gland function. The ingredients in GenF20 Plus, such as L-arginine, L-glutamine, and anterior pituitary powder, are selected based on their potential to boost HGH levels. Users of GenF20 Plus often seek improvements in skin appearance, energy levels, and muscle mass, similar to the benefits attributed to direct HGH supplementation.
Key Considerations:
While the ingredients in GenF20 Plus are supported by various studies indicating their role in promoting HGH production, the product itself has not been studied extensively in clinical trials to confirm these effects.
As a dietary supplement, GenF20 Plus is generally considered safe for adult use, but users should consult with a healthcare provider before starting any new supplement, especially those with pre-existing health conditions.
Other supplements with similar make-up can be found at most supplement stores locally or online.
New U Life's SomaDerm® Gel
New U Life's SomaDerm Gel is a homeopathic topical product that includes a blend of herbal and hormonal components meant to support natural hormone levels, including HGH. The gel is applied to the skin, allowing for the absorption of ingredients like wild yam and soy extract, which are included to support overall hormone health. SomaDerm is marketed primarily as an anti-aging product, claiming to offer benefits such as better sleep, enhanced mood, and increased energy.
Key Considerations:
SomaDerm operates under the principles of homeopathy, which are not universally accepted by everyone in the scientific community. The effectiveness of homeopathic products can also vary widely between individuals.
For homeopathic products, SomaDerm is currently in a category of its own, and the only over the counter products currently that includes somatropin (in 30x diluted form).
Regulation of Supplements
Dietary Supplements are not regulated in countries such as the US and Canada in the same way traditional pharmaceuticals are. For example, in the United States, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) categorizes these products as dietary supplements, meaning the do not require the same pre-market testing prior to launch and hence, do not have a classification as FDA Approved.
For some consumers, not having an official “FDA Approved” stamp may feels alarming, but you have to consider that no supplement is reviewed and approved by the FDA. It does however, put more responsibility on individual consumers to review the individual companies they are purchasing product from and do more of their own due diligence.
Conclusion: Should you Jump on the HGH Wagon?
When you are considering any new health product or supplementation, you should always remember that you can’t out-supplement a bad lifestyle. Incorporating regular exercise, both resistance training and cardiovascular activity, plus a diet of nutrient rich, non-processed food should always be your first step to reverse aging. But with busy lives, it isn’t always possible to stick with routines like this with the discipline most people really need.
Even with a healthy lifestyle, age related hormone decline is a reality, and there is an ever growing body of research that has shown that there are a lot of potential benefits to increasing HGH levels, ranging from muscle strength, body composition, bone density, and even cognitive function.
For anyone considering HGH supplementation, whether to address a medical condition or to seek anti-aging and performance enhancements, the key is to make informed decisions. Consulting with healthcare professionals, understanding the scientific evidence behind each option, and critically assessing the credibility and safety of the products are essential steps.
References
Taaffe, D. R., Jin, I. H., Zhu, X., Yarasheski, K. E., & Marcus, R. (1996). The influence of metabolic hormone changes on muscle strength with aging. Journal of Endocrinology, 150(Suppl), S217-S222.
Lange, K. H., Andersen, J. L., Beyer, N., Isaksson, F., Larsson, B., Rasmussen, M. H., Juul, A., Bülow, J., & Kjaer, M. (2002). GH administration changes myosin heavy chain isoforms in skeletal muscle but does not augment muscle strength or hypertrophy, either alone or combined with resistance exercise training in healthy elderly men. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 87(2), 513-523.
Rudman, D., Feller, A. G., Nagraj, H. S., Gergans, G. A., Lalitha, P. Y., Goldberg, A. F., Schlenker, R. A., Cohn, L., Rudman, I. W., & Mattson, D. E. (1990). Effects of human growth hormone in men over 60 years old. New England Journal of Medicine, 323(1), 1-6.
Johannsson, G., Marin, P., Lonn, L., Ottosson, M., Stenlof, K., Bjorntorp, P., Sjostrom, L., & Bengtsson, B. A. (1997). Growth hormone treatment of abdominally obese men reduces abdominal fat mass, improves glucose and lipoprotein metabolism, and reduces diastolic blood pressure. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 82(3), 727-734.
Papadakis, M. A., Grady, D., Black, D., Tierney, M. J., Gooding, G. A., Schambelan, M., & Grunfeld, C. (1996). Growth hormone replacement in healthy older men improves body composition but not functional ability. Annals of Internal Medicine, 124(8), 708-716.
Cook, D. M., Yuen, K. C., Biller, B. M., Kemp, S. F., & Vance, M. L. (2009). American Association of Clinical Endocrinologists Medical Guidelines for Clinical Practice for Growth Hormone Use in Growth Hormone-Deficient Adults and Transition Patients - 2009 Update. Endocrine Practice, 15(Supplement 2), 1-29.
Holloway, L., Butterfield, G., Hintz, R. L., Gesundheit, N., & Marcus, R. (1994). Effects of recombinant human growth hormone on metabolic indices, body composition, and bone turnover in healthy elderly women. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 79(2), 470-479.
Deijen, J. B., Arwert, L. I., & Drent, M. L. (2008). The GH/IGF-I axis and cognitive changes across a 4-year period in healthy adults. Neuropsychiatric Disease and Treatment, 4(4), 761-768.
Aleman, A., Verhaar, H. J., De Haan, E. H., De Vries, W. R., Samson, M. M., Drent, M. L., Van Der Veen, E. A., & Koppeschaar, H. P. (1999). Insulin-like growth factor-I and cognitive function in healthy older men. Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 84(2), 471-475.
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