The Truth About Human Growth Hormone
What is Growth Hormone?
Growth Hormones (GH) are secreted by the pituitary gland of the body and are responsible for the physical development of the body in childhood. They also control the health of the tissues and organs. These hormones are responsible for bone health, mass building, functions related to synthesis of proteins and the immunity of the body. After a certain age, the production of these hormones in the body starts declining. A variety of products exists in the market that promotes the secretion of growth hormones by the pituitary gland. These are largely used by body builders or athletes.
Releasers (Supplements) vs Injections
There is a lot of confusion when it comes to HGH related products. These supplements can be broadly classified into the following two categories:
Sometimes also called supplements, these do not actually contain the HGH. These generally consist a combination of ingredients, including multivitamins, minerals and amino acids that provide the body with nutrients to help in improving the production of growth hormone by the pituitary gland of the body. These are available without a prescription and do not have the side effects that accompany direct ingestion of HGH.
The growth hormone is available as a Somatropin injection. It is artificially synthesized. They are only available by prescription and are primarily used for the treatment of growth hormone deficiency due to genetic reasons. These may have extensive side effects and should not be taken unless recommended by a doctor. These are quite expensive as well.
Some manufacturers also promote growth hormone supplements in spray and oral form, but these are generally disregarded by the medical professionals due to various reasons. The oral ingestion of the hormone is deemed ineffective as it would be destroyed by stomach acids and the growth hormone in spray form is unable to permeate the membrane of the mouth.
Classifying GH Releasers or Supplements
These supplements can be divided into types based on the ingredients they use. These ingredients include one or a combination of the following:
L-Arginine is one of the amino acids typically found in meat and dairy. It is a non-essential amino acid; the body produces it on its own. It is important for heart and blood vessel health and kidney functioning. Its use is popular among fitness lovers. It boosts nitric oxide (NO) levels and inhibits production of somatostatin, a hormone that reduces GH production.
Being one of the non-essential amino acids, it is critical for decomposing ammonia in the body into urea for removal by kidneys. It helps increase the work done for the same amount of energy consumed by the body as well as is recommended for boosting the production of the hormone.
It is another non-essential amino acid and is used to synthesize various neurotransmitters in the body, like dopamine. It is highly popular for its testosterone and growth hormone boosting effects.
It is a neurotransmitter that is responsible for the shape of the muscle, also called muscle tone. It increases growth hormone levels when taken before a workout. It may induce mild side effects in some people and should be discontinued in such cases.
It is a type of choline-based substance that helps boost metabolism and ensures healthy functioning of the nerves. In various studies, it has been found to boost growth hormone, especially when taken before a workout.
L-Glutamine helps improve the immune system of the body and it is found in various GH supplements.
Besides these, there is similar type of supplements in the market that contains some other ingredients too. Supplements or releasers are just meant to be supplements. Your priority should be having a complete and nutritional diet, exercising regularly and following a healthy lifestyle. In the case of a medical condition, always consult a doctor or physician first.