The endocrine system is a complex network of hormones that regulate and control the body’s various functions. Hormones act as messengers, telling cells and tissues to either perform certain activities or cease them.
When the endocrine system is functioning properly, it helps to keep the body in a healthy state by encouraging processes like muscle growth and repair, food digestion and metabolism, strong sexual performance, and balanced moods. All these activities work together to prevent illness and maintain overall wellbeing.
HGH and IGF-1 often work together, for example, interacting with insulin to control carbohydrate metabolism in the liver and muscle mass throughout the body.
Although the two hormones are closely related, there are some key differences. HGH is produced in the pituitary gland, while IGF-1 is manufactured in the liver.
Why IGF-1 might be better than HGH
IGF-1 has all of the same advantages as HGH, but without any of the dangerous side effects.
How it works is when you take a dose of IGF-1, your body will naturally replenish its levels and then flush out any extra through the kidneys. This means that your body is still creating its own insulin-like growth factor 1.
When you take HGH, your body will cease producing the hormone, if correct protocol is not followed, which in turn does the opposite of what it is supposed to do.
What is HGH?
The human growth hormone (HGH) is an essential hormone produced in the pituitary gland. It is responsible for many body functions, but when there is an inadequate amount of circulating HGH, it can lead to a variety of issues such as anxiety, depression, poor muscle growth, fatigue, and a higher risk of heart disease.
In recent years, HGH has been associated with increased performance in athletes, and some experts have referred to its “potential anabolic effect on muscle growth”.
Additionally, scientists are researching the connection between HGH levels and the speed of the aging process, as many of the symptoms experienced by people with HGH deficiency are similar to those of the natural aging process.
What is IGF-1?
The liver is responsible for creating a key hormone known as insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1). Human growth hormone (HGH) stimulates the liver to produce this hormone, which is then released into the bloodstream.
A deficiency of IGF-1 is dependent on adequate levels of HGH, and optimal levels of IGF-1 play a significant role in the body’s metabolism, helping to regulate insulin levels and promote fat burning.
What’s the difference between HGH and IGF-1?
Growth hormone (HGH) and insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) are two closely related hormones that complement each other’s activities.
The production of IGF-1 is triggered by signals from HGH, and IGF-1 in turn amplifies the effects of HGH, significantly increasing its potency.
They often work together, for example, interacting with insulin to control carbohydrate metabolism in the liver and muscle mass throughout the body.
Although the two hormones are closely related, there are some key differences. HGH is produced in the pituitary gland, while IGF-1 is manufactured in the liver.
In addition, a study conducted by the Journal of Clinical Investigation found that the metabolic effects of the two hormones differ; HGH treatment leads to elevated insulin and glucose levels, whereas IGF-1 treatment leads to reduced insulin.
This suggests that IGF-1 has a moderating effect on the effects of HGH, helping to control muscle growth and insulin levels.
Who needs HGH?
Low levels of Human Growth Hormone (HGH) can have a variety of causes. A growth hormone deficiency is the medical term for this condition when it affects adults. Sometimes, a tumor near the pituitary gland can reduce the amount of HGH produced.
Additionally, injury or reduced blood flow to the brain area that contains the pituitary gland can also reduce HGH levels.
Fortunately, there are natural ways to increase HGH levels. For instance, fasting can enhance growth hormone secretion, while a ketogenic diet (low-carbohydrate diet) can help to keep insulin levels low and stimulate increased HGH. High-intensity exercises can also boost circulating HGH.
In some cases, doctors may recommend growth hormone therapy. If this is the case, it is important to always take this therapy under the supervision of a qualified health care provider to avoid any potential side effects.
Who needs IGF-1?
Children who have been diagnosed with Primary IGF-1 Deficiency, a condition caused by a lack of growth hormone, need to take steps to raise their IGF-1 levels.
If there are signs of slow growth or other worrying symptoms, pediatric doctors will carry out investigations to determine the cause and take blood samples to measure IGF-1.
Insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) can be taken as a supplement to prevent diabetes-induced changes in coenzymes Q9 and Q10 in diabetics. Scientists are constantly discovering new potential uses of IGF-1 in medicine.
Can you take HGH and IGF-1 together?
Bodybuilders often use Human Growth Hormone (HGH) and Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1) together in order to enhance their performance.
This combination of supplements is commonly referred to as a “stack”.
It is important to be aware of the potential side effects of taking too much growth hormone, but combining HGH and IGF-1 can actually help to reduce the likelihood of these issues.
When taking these supplements together, it is important to consider the overall dose, as well as the ratio of IGF-1 to HGH, in order to maximize the benefits while minimizing the risks.
Whether it is for the purpose of increasing performance or for medical reasons, combining HGH and IGF-1 can be a powerful tool to help reach your goals. With careful planning, it can be possible to achieve positive results.
Having Adequate Levels of IGF-1 is Extremely Important for the Elderly
Maintaining a healthy IGF-1 level throughout life is essential to extend one’s lifespan.
To achieve this, adults should consume adequate amounts of protein and the amino acids arginine, lysine, ornithine, and glycine, especially once they reach eighty years of age.
Additionally, they should make sure to follow a balanced diet that will provide them with the nutrients they need to keep their IGF-1 levels in check. By doing so, they can ensure that their physical and mental health remain intact as they age and can enjoy a longer and healthier life.
What are the Optimal IGF-1 Levels?
It is important to keep in mind that a healthy adult should maintain their IGF-1 levels below 175 ng/ml or even 150 ng/ml if possible.
This is because studies have shown that levels above 200 ng/ml can increase the risk of cardiovascular problems and other health complications.
On the other hand, levels below 80 ng/ml can also be detrimental, especially in elderly individuals over the age of 75.
To maintain a healthy IGF-1 level, it is important to limit the consumption of animal protein and adopt a more nutritional diet and lifestyle.
To ensure adequate nutrition, it is beneficial to include important amino acids such as arginine, lysine, ornithine, and glycine in one’s diet. Doing so can help to ensure that the IGF-1 levels remain at a healthy and safe level while aging.