Growth Hormone (GH) Therapy
Today, I want to dive into a topic that's a very interesting topic & one that I have researched —growth hormone (GH) therapy. Not only because of its increasing popularity, but also due to the mixed feelings it generates within the health community.
Pros of GH Therapy:
Improved Growth in Children: GH therapy is crucial for children with growth hormone deficiencies, helping them reach a more typical height.
Increased Muscle Mass: In adults, it can help increase muscle mass and strength, particularly beneficial for those with muscle-wasting diseases.
Enhanced Bone Density: It's known to improve bone density, reducing the risk of fractures as we age.
Metabolic Benefits: GH therapy has been shown to improve metabolism, helping reduce body fat and enhance overall body composition.
Cons of GH Therapy:
Potential Side Effects: For adults, GH therapy can come with side effects like joint pain, swelling, and I've seen concerns about cancer risks. While some studies reassure us that GH doesn’t significantly raise cancer risks, others suggest we should be cautious, especially if there’s a history of certain health issues.
Disruption to Natural Processes: Our bodies naturally produce GH in a balanced and regulated way that's hard to replicate with supplements. This natural process is tuned to our body’s needs and rhythms—particularly our sleep patterns, which play a crucial role in how GH is produced.
Messing with this delicate balance by adding external GH can disrupt everything from sleep to how our body manages its basic functions. While I endorse and believe in many avenues of supplementation, given the science in this matter, it's crucial to consider what our bodies are telling us—why might there be a deficiency, and what natural steps can we take to address it before we jump straight to supplementation?
If GH therapy is something you're considering, I urge you to look at the full picture—get informed, talk to specialists, and think about how changes in lifestyle, diet, and natural therapies might be safer and more effective ways to achieve our health goals.
To your vitality,
Lizanne