We are living in an era where there is a war against gaining weight and aging, so some people are turning to medical treatment in an attempt to remain fit and younger. Human Growth Hormone Therapy is just one of the many treatments that are becoming increasingly popular.
HGH is originally used in treating growth disorders but is currently under investigation for its extended influence on metabolism, muscle maintenance, and skin health.
As a person grows old, the natural production of HGH in the body decreases, and this brings some physical and metabolic changes.
Therapy reintroduces this hormone, and it is projected to prolong aging and assist in shedding fat. However, is it effective? So, how does the HGH therapy come into the equation?
An Insight Into Human Growth Hormone Therapy
HGH, or human growth hormone, is a general type of peptide system produced by the pituitary. It is the focal point in body growth, the regeneration of cells, and healthy body tissues.
HGH hormone is highest during childhood and adolescence, and that is why these periods are ones of growth spurts and tissue and bone growth.
But when the age of individuals reaches the 30s, the level of HGH begins to reduce slowly, leading to the manifestation of apparent symptoms of age-related changes and slower metabolic activity.
HGH therapy incorporates the introduction of artificial growth hormone using an injection to augment what is dwindling inside the body.
The FDA has approved it to treat certain health conditions, such as growth hormone deficiency and muscle wasting that comes with HIV. But there has been a recent influx of off-label treatment as an anti-aging agent and as a weight loss treatment.
Treatment of the condition happens when there is a series of diagnostic tests done, and then it is concluded that the level of HGH is below normal.
The healthcare professionals are careful in the dosages in order to avoid side effects because it may cause cases such as joint pain, insulin resistance, and swelling. Hormone is applied routinely for several weeks or months, depending on the treatment program.
Role of Human Growth Hormone Therapy in Weight Loss and Aging
The roles of human growth hormone therapy in weight loss and aging are as follows:
Boosts Metabolism for More Efficient Fat Burning
An increase in the metabolism rate of the body is one of the main ways through which HGH therapy assists in weight reduction. As the HGH increases, it causes the liver to synthesize insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), which is very significant in the metabolic processes of cells.
Higher metabolism also implies that the body can turn food into energy rather than depositing a large amount of fat. Such a change of hormones frequently results in an enhancement of energy levels, enabling people to indulge themselves in more physical activities without getting tired.
This also translates to a faster rate of burning calories, and this is a plus point for people whose metabolism rate is slow owing to age or due to hormonal imbalance.
Preserves Lean Muscle Mass During Weight Loss
Although numerous weight loss programs are aimed at fat burning, they are likely to cause the loss of muscle mass in general and in older adults in particular.
The HGH therapy is useful in preventing this by increasing the ability to produce proteins that are mandatory in repairing and building muscles.
Having lean muscles does not merely help to have a toned body; it also helps in keeping the body at a higher metabolic rate. Compared to fat, more energy is needed to keep muscles in shape; hence, the more muscles one retains, the more they burn calories even when they are resting.
This two-fold action of reducing fat and maintaining muscles makes HGH therapy a good complement to weight loss regimens for older people.
Enhances Skin Elasticity and Reduces Wrinkles
The changes associated with aging are not limited to the body composition, since they also change the structure of the skin. HGH therapy has also been effective in enhancing the state of the skin by enhancing collagen production, a protein that makes the skin stretchy and firm.
Since HGH promotes the growth of cells, the skin is tougher and well hydrated, and there will be a reduction in fine lines and wrinkles. The regeneration effect may bring back youthfulness, especially when used by an individual who has started showing early signs of aging.
The texture of the skin can also be improved and become smooth and even-toned in the long run, which promotes physical and psychological well-being.
Decreases Abdominal Fat Linked to Hormonal Aging
A lot of times hormonal change as one grows older may lead to this increase in visceral fat, especially in the abdomen. Not only is this type of fat unattractive, but it is also linked with the vulnerability to cardiovascular diseases and metabolic disorders.
This barrier is assisted by HGH therapy that mobilizes body-stored fat and facilitates the metabolism of fat to energy. Research studies have identified that patients under HGH therapy have reported a decrease in the waistline as well as the fat deposited in the abdomen.
The therapy has a particular benefit by being one of the only methods of countering this hormonally mediated fat storage in middle-aged and older adults who cannot manage their abdominal fat with healthy lifestyle measures.
Improves Bone Density to Counter Age-Related Loss
Naturally, bone density decreases over the years, exposing one to the risk of breaking bones and developing osteoporosis. HGH increases the production of insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1), which is central to the bone regeneration process.
HGH therapy can increase the retention of calcium and develop new bone tissue by increasing the concentration of IGF-1. This renders the therapy particularly useful among women of postmenopause since they are more prone to bone thinning, as well as among elderly people.
With time, more robust bones lead to an enhanced posture, a decreased risk of fractures, and overall mobility.
Final Thoughts
The use of human growth hormone therapy presents a versatile platform for treating weight gain as well as the observable and emotive consequences of aging.
Although it is not a short-term solution, it can relatively positively affect the physical health and look good under the condition of responsible use. Safe and effective outcomes need consultation with a qualified healthcare provider.