When conventional weight loss methods fail, alternative means may be explored. Increasing the level of human growth hormone (HGH) is one possibility. Studies have found that increasing the amount of HGH in the body leads to a loss in fat. While the synthetic form of HGH is available by prescription only, there are ways to increase it naturally.
Origin
HGH is a protein-based hormone found in the body. You naturally produce and secrete HGH throughout the course of the day. Production takes place in the anterior pituitary gland by the somatotroph cells. HGH levels fluctuate throughout the day, and certain external factors play an influential role in increased secretion.
Fat Loss
In a study published in the "New England Journal of Medicine" in July 5, 1990, Daniel Rudman and colleagues conducted a study involving older men. The subjects followed a six-month HGH regime. It was determined that with HGH treatment, an increase in lean mass and decrease in fat resulted. A report in the "Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism" conducted in Italy followed women after bariatric surgery. One group was treated with HGH. When HGH was introduced, more fat loss resulted.
HGH Stimulation
There are multiple ways to naturally increase the production and secretion of HGH in your body. First, ensure that you get adequate sleep. In order to keep HGH at peak levels, your body needs plenty of rest. It has been shown that HGH reaches the highest level during sleep. You can also try fasting. A study published in the "Journal of Clinical Investigation" in 1988 showed that fasting for multiple days stimulated the secretion of HGH. Lead a physically active lifestyle. Vigorous exercise has been shown to raise HGH.
HGH Lowering Factors
As you age, HGH production decreases. Other factors that lead to lower levels include malnutrition a and sedentary lifestyle.
Risks
The synthetic form of HGH is available by prescription only for good reason. HGH treatment has been shown to cause an increase in inflammation, triggering such symptoms as limb swelling, joint pain and muscle pain. Also, the risks of diabetes and heart disease may be increased. The use of HGH is highly frowned upon by the athletic community. HGH use for performance enhancement is illegal. It is banned by the IOC and NCAA. Please consult with your physician for more information.
References
- MayoClinic.com: Human Growth Hormone (HGH): Does it Slow Aging?
- The New England Journal of Medicine: Effects of Human Growth Hormone in Men Over 60 Years Old
- Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism: Growth Hormone Treatment Prevents Loss of Lean Mass after Bariatric Surgery in Morbidly Obese Patients. Results of a Pilot, Open, Prospective, Randomized, Controlled Study
- Growth Hormone and IGF Research: Reciprocal Interactions between the GH Axis and Sleep
- Journal of Clinical Investigation: Fasting Enhances Growth Hormone Secretion and Amplifies the Complex Rhythms of Growth Hormone Secretion in Man
- Journal of Clinical Endocrinology and Metabolism: Effect of Low and High Intensity Exercise on Circulating Growth Hormone in Men
