Human Growth Hormone (HGH) has gained considerable public interest, particularly concerning its links to diet and weight management. The “HGH diet” often surfaces in discussions about body composition. This article explores HGH’s natural role, the claims and controversies surrounding synthetic HGH for weight loss, and its associated risks.
Understanding Human Growth Hormone
Human Growth Hormone (HGH), also known as somatotropin, is a natural hormone produced and released by the pituitary gland, a small, pea-sized endocrine gland located at the base of the brain. HGH performs two main functions: stimulating growth in children and influencing metabolism. In children, HGH tells cells in bones and cartilage to multiply, which increases height, especially during puberty.
After growth plates fuse, HGH continues to play a role in maintaining normal body structure and metabolism. It impacts how the body converts food into energy, primarily by increasing the production of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1). IGF-1 is a hormone that manages the effects of HGH in the body and is similar in structure to insulin, which helps regulate blood sugar levels. HGH is released in pulses throughout the day, with levels varying based on factors like time of day, age, and sex.
Diet and Lifestyle Factors for Natural HGH
The body’s natural HGH production can be influenced by various diet and lifestyle choices. Adequate protein intake, which provides amino acids like arginine, glutamine, and ornithine, may support HGH secretion.
Reducing sugar intake is another factor, as high insulin levels can inhibit HGH release. Studies indicate that people with insulin problems often have lower HGH levels. Intermittent fasting has also been observed to increase HGH concentrations, possibly due to HGH’s role in breaking down fat for energy during fasting. Furthermore, regular exercise, particularly high-intensity interval training, stimulates HGH production, and getting quality sleep, typically 7 to 9 hours, is associated with increased HGH release, as a significant portion is secreted during deep sleep.
Exogenous HGH and Weight Loss Claims
Synthetic HGH, known as somatropin, is a prescription medication approved for specific medical conditions, such as growth failure in children due to HGH deficiency, Prader-Willi syndrome, Turner syndrome, and chronic kidney disease. It is also approved for adults with HGH deficiency resulting from pituitary disease or injury, and for muscle-wasting diseases associated with HIV/AIDS. However, it is not approved by the FDA for weight loss, anti-aging, or bodybuilding purposes.
Despite this, some proponents of “HGH diets” claim rapid fat loss and muscle gain through synthetic HGH. These claims often stem from early, small studies, but subsequent research has not replicated these benefits in healthy individuals. Any perceived weight loss from unapproved HGH use is often attributed to fluid shifts rather than true fat reduction. Moreover, HGH is a protein that gets broken down in the stomach, rendering oral forms like pills and sprays ineffective; it is only effective when injected.
Risks and Side Effects of Exogenous HGH
The unapproved use of exogenous HGH carries several potential dangers. Common side effects include joint pain, muscle pain, and swelling due to fluid retention. Carpal tunnel syndrome is another reported side effect.
More serious risks include an increased chance of developing insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Long-term unmonitored use can lead to acromegaly, a condition where bones and tissues, particularly in the hands, feet, and face, grow abnormally large. This irreversible condition can also result in high blood pressure, heart disease, and arthritis. Furthermore, elevated HGH levels may promote the growth of existing cancerous cells, increasing the risk of certain cancers.