Human Growth Hormone – Elixir of youth?

Human Growth Hormone (HGH) also known as somatotropin is synthesized and secreted by the acidophilic cells of pituitary gland in response to Growth hormone releasing hormone (GHRH). HGH is a protein (peptide) hormone composed of a chain of 191 amino acids. HGH production is inhibited by another hormone known as somatostatin.

Actions of growth hormones:

In the liver, growth hormone generates the production of somatomedins (insulin-like growth factors [IGF]), which serve as the intermediaries of several physiologic actions.

Direct actions of growth hormone

1. decreased glucose uptake into cells (diabetogenic)
2. increased lipolysis
3. increased protein synthesis in muscle and increased lean body mass
4. increased production of IGF

Actions of growth hormone via IGF

1. increased protein synthesis in chondrocytes and increased linear growth (pubertal growth spurt)
2. increased protein synthesis in muscle and increased lean body mass
3. increased protein synthesis in most organs and increased organ size

Human growth hormone (HGH) along wit GHRH declines and somatostatin increases with aging and is directly associated with many symptoms of aging, including cardiovascular disease, increased body fat, osteoporosis, wrinkling, gray hair, decreased energy, reduced sexual function and interest, and other pre-mature aging symptoms.

Few benefits of human growth hormone for women:

1. Eliminate premature aging symptoms
2. Reverse the biological effects of aging
3. Reduce body fat
4. Increase lean muscle mass
5. Strengthen the immune system
6. Improve sexual performance and libido
7. Lower blood pressure
8. Lower cholesterol
9. Restore hair color and growth
10. Increase bone mass density (BMD) by about 2% per year
11. Strengthen the heart
12. Regenerate organs and increase energy

Side effects of human growth hormone:

HGH is a miracle drug when used with moderation. HGH belongs to class C drug which is illegal to supply. It should only be available from a doctor on prescription to treat severe growth disorders or conditions such as Aids-related muscle wastage. But at the same time, it is not illegal to possess, if possession is for personal use. Side effects are typically experienced with high dose abuse over long periods of time.

HGH has been shown, in some studies, to have side effects which include:

1. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
2. Arthritis
3. Edema (swelling)
4. Water retention
5. Joint pain
6. Gigantism
7. Bloating

References:

1. Human Growth Hormone (HGH) for “Dummies” By Mark Hilton
2. BRS Physiology
3. New elixir of youth – dailymail.co.uk