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Last Updated on December 8, 2023
Unless you have studied physiology, you may not know everything you need to know about human growth hormones (HGH); however, they play an integral role in our health, development, and overall well-being. Also referred to as somatotropin, human growth hormones are peptide hormones produced by the pituitary gland, a small, bean-shaped gland that sits at the base of the brain. That said, the role of these hormones in the human body is threefold in that they stimulate growth, cell reproduction, and cell regeneration.
Arguably, the most noticeable sign of growth hormones working in the body can be observed during childhood insofar as they contribute to growth spurts. After we enter adulthood, these same hormones continue to play a role when it comes to body composition, fluids, muscle and bone growth, metabolism, and even heart function. And things will remain this way until we reach middle-age, which is around the time when human growth hormone production starts to slow down.
What You Might Not Know About HGH but Probably Should
One of the most peculiar things about the human experience is that, while we are young, many of us believe that we will forever be immune to health problems. And this couldn’t be any further from the truth. For example, low HGH levels, which can occur while individuals are still in their late 30s to early 40s, have been linked to a host of health problems. To get a better understanding of what adults can expect in terms of the tapering off of growth hormone (GH) production as they age, we need only take a look at study data published by worldhealth.net. The study found that HGH levels generally decline by 14 to 15 percent every 10 years among individuals between the ages of 20 and 30. Of course, the downward spiral only continues from there as HGH levels are practically nonexistent by age 60, according to the same study data.
Additional Factors That Can Lead to Low GH Levels
Although aging is the predominant cause of low HGH levels, it is by no means the only one. For children, low growth hormone levels often stem from a congenital or acquired disorder. As far as adults are concerned, a study published by the National Organization for Rare Disorders (NORD) revealed that any of the following could potentially result in the early onset of low HGH production in adults:
- Tumors and radiation or surgery used to treat them
- Damage to the pituitary gland, hypothalamus, or both
- Brain ischemia
- Certain autoimmune diseases
What Are the Symptoms of Low GH Levels in Adults?
Regardless of the contributing factors, individuals who have a growth hormone deficiency will find themselves struggling with a wide range of unpleasant symptoms, some of which can include the following:
- Low sex drive
- A loss of strength and muscle mass
- A decline in stamina
- Low bone density
- Weight gain
- Memory problems
Along with these symptoms, some individuals may also develop high cholesterol, which, in turn, can lead to an increased risk of developing cardiovascular disease. In light of these symptoms and to save off potentially worse health problems, it is not too surprising to find that many people are turning to human growth hormone replacement therapy.
Human Growth Hormone Replacement Therapy: Separating Fact From Fiction
If you’re struggling with low HGH-related symptoms and thinking about undergoing HGH replacement therapy, you should know that there is no shortage of misinformation being shared online concerning the benefits of these treatments. That being said, let’s take a moment to separate fact from fiction as it pertains to human growth hormone replacement therapy as a treatment for low GH levels in men and women:
Facts
Helps with weight loss – Though seldom discussed, growth hormone replacement therapy can help individuals who are overweight or obese lose weight. At hghtherapydoc.com you may find more about HGH benefits for weigh loss. Studies show that these treatments can stimulate carbohydrate metabolism and improves sensitivity in insulin receptors, which leads to more lean muscle and increased basal metabolism. All of these factors make it easier for individuals to shed unwanted pounds.
Improves bone density – Given that osteoporosis is one of the many byproducts of low growth hormone levels, it should be noted that human growth hormone therapy can, indeed, strengthen bones. In a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, researchers found that men who received GH injections three times per week for six months saw a marked increase in bone density, not to mention an equally impressive increase in lean body mass.
Increases low libido – Multiple studies show that growth hormone therapy can help boost low testosterone in men and low estrogen in women. As such, both genders can expect significant improvements in their sex life soon after starting treatment.
Fiction
Combats premature aging – One of the biggest misconceptions relative to HGH-based therapy is that such treatments can prevent or reverse signs of premature aging. These treatments are not approved or endorsed by the Food and Drug Administration for this purpose. Further, there is no credible data to prove that they can remove the fine lines and wrinkles synonymous with premature aging.
Pills are as effective as injections – HGH-based therapy prescribed by a licensed physician involves the use of injectable medication, such as Genotropin, Humatrope, and Norditropin, for example. As of the writing of this article, there are no FDA-approved pills on the market that can resolve low growth hormone production in humans.
Improves memory – Although studies have been conducted on mice, HGH-based therapy is currently not approved to treat memory problems. However, this might soon change, according to researchers involved in many of these studies, mice that received GH injections showed a reasonable increase in cognitive abilities. And similar findings were also observed in small clinical trials involving human subjects.
Bottom Line
In summation, there is plenty of evidence that shows human growth hormone replacement therapy is effective in boosting low GH levels and resolving many of the associated symptoms. However, some of the claims being made about these treatments are unsubstantiated. That said, if you’re struggling with low GH levels, it would be a good idea to speak with a licensed physician who can provide further insight into what these treatments entail and help you decide whether or not they are right for you.
