The Role of Growth Hormone in Adults
Growth hormone is a vital hormone that plays a significant role in protein synthesis, muscle building, tendon and ligament development, collagen production, joint health, and bone density. However, as we age, the levels of growth hormone in our body decline. In fact, individuals over the age of 65 may have growth hormone levels that are 65 percent lower than optimal.
The Impact of Growth Hormone Deficiency
Many people are unaware of the potential consequences of growth hormone deficiency. Insufficient growth hormone can lead to difficulties in building muscle, cognitive issues, mood imbalances like depression or anxiety, higher levels of LDL cholesterol, hair loss, and insomnia.
The Link Between Growth Hormone and Testosterone
Not only does growth hormone decrease as we age, but testosterone levels also decline. Both hormones are crucial for protein synthesis and overall health. Testosterone plays a role in muscle building, while growth hormone is responsible for fat burning.
Understanding the Production of Growth Hormone
Growth hormone is produced by the pituitary gland in the brain. It then signals the liver to release insulin-like growth factor number one (IGF-1), which works alongside growth hormone to support various bodily functions. While growth hormone has a stronger impact on fat burning, IGF-1 also contributes to this process.
Natural Ways to Increase Growth Hormone
Instead of resorting to synthetic hormones, there are several natural methods to boost growth hormone production.
1. Improve Sleep Quality
Deep Delta wave sleep is when growth hormone levels are most elevated. Sleep apnea, a condition that affects oxygen intake during sleep, can significantly reduce growth hormone production. Opening windows, introducing plants into your bedroom, and using a CPAP machine can help improve sleep apnea and increase growth hormone levels.
2. Manage Blood Sugar Levels
High blood sugar and insulin levels can suppress growth hormone production. Maintaining a low-carb diet and ensuring normal insulin levels are essential for optimal growth hormone function. Regular testing of fasting blood glucose levels can help detect insulin deficiencies.
3. Support Your Liver
The liver plays a crucial role in growth hormone production. Improving liver function through the consumption of liver-supporting supplements like milk thistle can enhance growth hormone levels.
4. Exercise Intensely
Engaging in intense exercise, particularly sprinting, can stimulate growth hormone production by up to 2,000 percent. Regular exercise not only increases growth hormone levels but also has numerous other health benefits.
5. Explore Cold and Heat Therapy
Cold therapy, such as cold showers or immersion, increases growth hormone levels. Surprisingly, heat therapy, including hot showers, saunas, whirlpools, and Jacuzzis, has an even more significant impact on growth hormone production.
6. Try Intermittent Fasting
Intermittent fasting, which involves reducing meal frequency without decreasing overall calorie intake, can lead to a significant increase in growth hormone levels. A popular approach is to consume two meals per day without snacking.
7. Consider Pituitary Glandular Support
Supporting the pituitary gland, which produces growth hormone, can provide a natural boost. Pituitary glandular support supplements, such as Standard Process' Pituitrophin PMG, provide the necessary raw materials for the gland to produce growth hormone.
Conclusion
Growth hormone plays a critical role in various aspects of our health, including muscle development, fat burning, and overall well-being. As we age, growth hormone levels naturally decline, leading to potential issues such as muscle loss, cognitive decline, and mood imbalances. By implementing natural strategies like improving sleep quality, managing blood sugar levels, and supporting the liver, we can enhance the production of growth hormone and reap the benefits of this essential hormone.