Science of Growth Harmones
Growth hormones (GH), especially somatotropin or the human growth hormone (HGH), are quite vital as they are involved in growth and metabolism and the overall well-being of the human body. It is produced by pituitary gland, has an ability to promote growth, to increase body cells reproduction and regeneration. It is most impactful during childhood and especially adolescence for it contributes to bone and muscle development. Nevertheless, HGH remain mandatory throughout adulthood in helping to preserve muscle mass, bone density, and tissue homeostasis.
Growth hormone is also secreted in pulses and its highest levels are released during the night or during sleep period depending on the age, sex, diet, activity level and stress level of an individual. Human growth hormone kinds the liver to start producing IGF-1, the hormone that is responsible for instigating most types of growth within the body. IGF-1 has been identified to have significant effects on the manner of growth of muscles and bones besides the synthesis of DNA in cells.
This is true because a deficiency or an excess of HGH is likely to have severe consequences on the health of the person. Deficiency of HGH in kids results in growth retardation and short stature, whereas overproduction stimulates growth of the long bones and causes gigantism. In adults, deficiency of HGH is associated with decrease in muscle mass and energy while excess leads to the condition known as acromegaly evidenced by assessed hand size, foot size and facial features.
Available HGH has now come about as a result of biotechnology that has seen the synthesis of HGH to help address deficiencies and certain diseases. Although, it has benefits in disease treatment, its use in performance boosting or as a cure for aging comes with complications such as arthritis, high insulin levels, and even cancer. It is however important to understand the science of growth hormones in order to encourage their utilization for medical purposes while avoiding any harm that may result due to their consumption.
