Human growth hormone (HGH), also known as somatotropin, is a vital hormone produced in the pituitary gland that plays a key role in cell regeneration, cell reproduction, and cell growth. As we age, our bodies naturally produce less HGH. This decline can lead to several undesirable effects.
HGH therapy involves injections of biosynthetic human growth hormone to increase hormone levels in the body. This can help reverse some age-related declines. Potential benefits of HGH therapy include:
HGH therapy may be recommended if blood tests confirm an HGH deficiency. Some signs and symptoms that could indicate low growth hormone levels include:
If adult growth hormone deficiency is confirmed through testing, HGH injections can help correct the imbalance.
Accurately diagnosing growth hormone deficiency involves blood tests, ideally after fasting, to measure Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1) levels. IGF-1 levels give an indication of growth hormone reserves in the body. Additional tests may check pituitary gland functioning.
If low IGF-1 and growth hormone levels are detected, HGH injections may be prescribed. Treatment protocols can vary based on factors like:
HGH shots are typically self-administered 3-7 times per week. Ongoing medical supervision helps determine proper dosing and monitors patient progress.
HGH therapy often begins with a “loading phase” involving more frequent injections to help elevate hormone levels. This is followed by a maintenance phase with a reduced injection schedule.
Doses are carefully tailored and adjusted based on the patient’s unique hormone profile, treatment goals, and ongoing lab testing. Blood tests during therapy can assess IGF-1 and help ensure optimal hormone levels are achieved and maintained.
The physicians at Hormone Health Center specialize in customized programs focusing on lifestyle, nutrition, and hormone replacement therapy to help patients looking and feeling their best at any age.
Our commitment is ensuring patients receive exceptional care with compassion. We believe feeling good and performing at your peak should not be limited by age. Contact us today to learn more and schedule a consultation.
Seeking timely evaluation and treatment for hormone imbalance can provide lasting benefits. As we age, declining hormones can negatively impact quality of life. Many effects of aging may actually result from changes in hormones like testosterone, estrogen, or HGH.
Symptoms often develop slowly, so hormone deficiencies can go undiagnosed for years. Some effects like loss of bone mass or muscle tissue can become irreversible over time. This underscores the value of early detection through testing.
Implementing an appropriate treatment plan at the first signs of hormone decline may help:
If you notice any persistent symptoms possibly related to hormone imbalance, the experienced physicians at Hormone Health Center are ready to help determine if hormone optimization therapy is right for you.
While HGH therapy provides many benefits, optimal results depend on healthy lifestyle choices. Your doctor can provide tailored recommendations on nutrition, sleep, stress management, and activity for hormone health.
Focusing on a balanced diet high in anti-inflammatory whole foods helps provide the building blocks for new cells. Key nutrients supporting growth hormone function include:
Growth hormone helps regulate sleep-wake cycles. In turn, poor or inadequate sleep can disrupt endocrine system functioning. Most growth hormone is secreted at night during deep sleep stages. Prioritizing sufficient sleep helps maximize these regenerative processes.
Regular exercise helps modulate hormone levels and sensitivity. Both aerobic activity and strength training play important roles in maintaining muscle and supporting metabolic factors influenced by growth hormone activity. However, overtraining can have the opposite effect. Finding an appropriate balance tailored to your fitness level and goals is ideal.
Chronic stress takes a major toll on the endocrine system. Implementing positive coping strategies while avoiding burnout helps preserve hormonal equilibrium. Growth hormone release can become irregular with elevated cortisol. Relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga, or spending time in nature may help buffer harmful effects of stress.
A comprehensive treatment approach including HGH therapy paired with a healthy lifestyle gives you the best chance of success. Our goal is supporting patients to look and feel their absolute best regardless of age.
