HGH or Human Growth Hormone is a peptide hormone that is naturally produced by the pituitary gland for cell growth and regeneration in the body. In the body, HGH is a 191-amino acid, single-chain polypeptide that is vital for human development. Scientists began to synthesize HGH as an anabolic agent in 1981, after which, it became widely popular as a performance enhancer. HGH raises levels of glucose and free fatty acids and activates IGF-1.
As humans reach the middle of their adulthood, their pituitary gland slows down the production of the growth hormone, which can cause a variety of health problems including the depletion of muscle and bone mass. This is where synthetic HGH can benefit an individual.
What Forms can HGH be Found in?
Other than the natural form, HGH can be found in the form of supplements, oral sprays, and injections.
HGH Prescriptions
Doctors prescribe HGH to children who suffer from:
- Turner’s Syndrome
- Prader-Willi Syndrome
- Chronic kidney problems
- HGH deficiency
- Smaller than their developmental age
HGH is prescribed to adults who have:
- Short bowel syndrome
- Rare pituitary tumors or treatment of the gland after surgery which causes HGH deficiencies
- HIV/AIDS associated muscle depletion
Effects of Excessive HGH
Excessive HGH can cause a pituitary tumor, which is comprised of somatotroph cells of the anterior pituitary. It can also cause visual impairment, headaches, and deficiency of pituitary hormones.
In adults, excessive HGH can thicken the bones in the jaw, fingers, and toes; the condition is known as acromegaly. Other problems include sweating, increased pressure on the nerves, muscular weakness, a buildup of sex hormone-binding globulin, insulin resistance and decreased sexual function.
In children, excessive HGH may result in gigantism, which includes symptoms like double vision, headaches, delayed puberty, large hands and feet and increased sweating.
Effects of HGH Deficiency
The effects of HGH deficiency vary according to one’s age. In children, the deficiency of HGH results in short stature and an inability to grow. The congenital malformations and genetics can cause these issues. In adults, HGH insufficiency is rare and can be a result of pituitary adenoma. It can increase fat in the body, decrease vitality and decline muscle mass.
Common Uses of HGH Commonly
Human Growth Hormones can be used in medical replacement therapy, in the treatment of conditions caused by HGH deficiency, to enhance performance, as a dietary supplement and in agriculture (given to cows to increase milk production).
Why is there a Rise in the Number of People Taking HGH?
An increasing number of people have started using HGH to counter aging. It was previously believed that the body functions naturally slow down with age, but science informed us that it happens due to the insufficient HGH production.
HGH is a popular product for bodybuilders, as it can help increase muscle mass and weight loss by elevating the metabolism process in the body.
Apart from the physical benefits of HGH, it also has some positive psychological effects including improvements in the quality of life and cognitive functioning. Moreover, it aids in increasing energy levels and maintaining emotional and mental well-being. HGH also significantly affects one’s cognitive abilities, especially learning, concentration and memory.
Is Synthetic HGH Dangerous?
Mainstream media has exaggerated the dangers of HGH, however, it is a safe hormone as long as you take it as per your doctor’s advice. Only fluid retention and rise in blood sugar level can be a possibility though. If you understand your dosage, HGH will not be harmful, rather it will improve your health.