HGH or human growth hormone is naturally produced in your brain by a small gland called the pituitary gland. HGH plays a key role in building and maintaining muscle and tissue. Natural HGH supplements are marketed as "wonder cures" to prevent and stop the appearance of aging and provide a sense of well-being and vitality. However, these supplements generally don't provide the results that are claimed. Consult your doctor before using HGH supplements or adding any supplement to your diet.
Your pituitary gland secretes the highest amount of HGH when you're young. HGH is transported throughout your body to support healthy growth as a child and to maintain proper function of your organs as you age. As human growth naturally slows down, so does the amount of HGH your brain produces. The decrease in HGH may contribute to signs of aging such as wrinkles and muscle weakness. Adults who are deficient in HGH may need hormone therapy replacement doses of HGH, which is provided by a doctor through injection. Synthetic HGH replacement can increase muscle mass and bone density, reduce body fat and enhance physical endurance.
Supplements
As HGH grows in mainstream popularity, so does the variety of "natural" HGH supplements and products. Natural HGH supplements are available in oral form, topical creams and nasal sprays and typically don't actually contain HGH. Mayo Clinic warns that there is no substantial evidence to prove that natural HGH supplements work. They are only effective if they are injected. Additionally, it is quite costly to receive prescribed HGH injections, upward of $10,000 a year for adults. Supplements that claim to provide natural HGH are a fraction of that price. Some HGH supplements actually contain plant growth hormone, which may not be effective in humans.
Candidates
It is rare for adults to have a deficiency in HGH. Insufficient HGH can be caused by a tumor that occurs directly on the pituitary gland, known as pituitary adenoma, according to Mayo Clinic. This can significantly slow your production of HGH. In this case the hormone is injected by a certified physician. It is not prescribed to inhibit the normal aging process. Synthetic HGH injections can, however, be prescribed for people with specific diseases that cause muscle wasting. Children who do not produce proper amounts of HGH may also be candidates for growth hormone replacement therapy.
Considerations
Many "all natural" HGH supplements are offered online from vendors whose backgrounds are unknown. Make sure that you buy all supplements from legitimate and reputable sources to ensure the safety of the product. If you wish to try an HGH supplement, consult your doctor about the product before you begin. If you use HGH when it is not needed, it can lead to side effects, including carpal tunnel or joint discomfort, water retention in your arms and legs and muscle pain. The Mayo Clinic points out that, while HGH can increase muscle mass, it does not necessarily improve strength. Men should be aware that excess HGH can enlarge their breast tissue.
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