What is HGH?

HGH is the term most commonly used for the human growth hormone found in all our bodies. It is a hormone produced in our brains by a gland called the pituitary gland. The gland is vital to our health for a number of important functions it carries out. The first and most well known function is our growth, but it also contributes to our cell production, muscle development and bone density. It also plays a part in controlling our sugar and insulin levels. Our immune systems are also protected by this hormone.

When we are young, there is a very large amount of the hormone produced in our bodies. This explains why we see the biggest growth and changes to our bodies in this time. As we grow older however, the hormone is not produced in the same quantities.

HGH Studies

There have been several studies carried out on HGH, in particular on the effects of maintaining levels in our bodies. The most famous study which really kicked off the interest in this hormone was in 1990, when a study was carried out which saw a group of men over 60 given an HGH supplement for a period of time. At the same time another group of men were given a placebo and the effects were noted. The results indicated that the men who had received the genuine supplement has experienced increased muscle mass and a decreased amount of fatty tissue in their bodies. It was from here that HGH as an anti aging device capable of controlling weight was really brought to the forefront of people’s minds.

Not all the studies that have been carried out however have produced results such as these. Other studies have shown that HGH had no effect whatsoever. Some scientists have suggested there may have been other reasons for the findings in 1990 study. For example it was suggested that the HGH merely allowed the muscles to retain more water which explains the findings of increased muscle mass. Additionally it has been said that the study was not carried out for long enough in order for a genuine picture of the effects and or benefits to be obtained. With a study lasting less than six months, it is certainly not possible to know all the possible side effects.

HGH Supplements

Needless to say, despite the deeply shaky findings, there are currently plenty of websites, products and private health clinics where it is possible to purchase an HGH supplement. Claimed to be the ultimate anti aging device, it is possible to purchase the supplement in the form of a pill, spray or injection. Injections are the most costly method as they can only be administered in a private clinic. A whole course must be undertaken and clinics generally recommend a 6 month treatment. Pills and sprays are available to buy on the internet for much less. There is no evidence whatsoever to suggest however that a spray actually works. It is difficult for the substance to be absorbed through the mouth lining into the blood.

Genuine HGH Deficiency

In the rare case that a child or adult suffers from a genuine HGH deficiency, a doctor will prescribe a course of HGH injections. This is the only situation when this will occur however and the medical profession in no way tout HGH as any form of effective anti aging method. Body builders and sportsmen have promoted the substance as a natural steroid in the past, based too upon the findings of the study in 1990. Physicians advise people from taking any form of steroid, even if it is supposedly natural or otherwise.

Side Effects

Although side effects did not play a large role in the original study in 1990, there have been several reports of alarming side effects since then. Joint pain is one symptom that has been repeatedly complained of which certainly gives credence to the idea that HGH supplements allow more water to be retained by the muscles. Carpal Tunnel Syndrome has also been reported as have even more severe problems including various psychiatric disorders and diabetes.