Let’s just say you have been hitting the gym for the last few years
Your body is changing-Your stronger, have a little more energy, the dad bod is mostly gone, ect ect ect.
But your not totally satisfied
The muscle isn’t building like it was and the gains are wayyyy harder to come by now
This is how you take it to the next level SAFELY!
5 Things Growth Hormone Does for You:
- Growth hormone is responsible for a huge amount of development in adolescene. But we don’t really care about that right now. For the purpose of this article lets assume your not 16. And if you are 16 you shouldn’t be messing with supplements beyond a protein powder anyways.
- This is where it gets good. Body Composition: Growth hormone influences body composition by promoting the growth of lean muscle mass and reducing the accumulation of adipose tissue (body fat). Just what we need right! It stimulates the breakdown of fat cells (lipolysis) and inhibits fat storage, leading to increased muscle mass and decreased fat. If you wanted a summary of this article you just read it! But if you want all the juicy details keep reading.
- Growth Hormone is also really good for our bones. As we age we produce less growth hormone leaving our bones more brittle. This starts to happen in our 30’s and gets worse as we get older. It does this by stimulating the activity of osteoblasts, the cells responsible for bone formation, leading to increased bone density and strength. GH deficiency can result in reduced bone mineral density and an increased risk of osteoporosis.
- I’m not sure how old you are but as we age I’m sure you have seen plenty of people around you pack on a few extra pounds. You have also probably noticed that the weight piles on easier than it used to. Growth hormone regulates this. Growth hormone plays a significant role in regulating metabolism. It enhances protein synthesis, which is essential for tissue repair, maintenance, and growth. GH also influences glucose metabolism by decreasing insulin sensitivity and increasing the production of glucose, which helps maintain normal blood sugar levels. Basically it keeps that juicy cheesburger and fries from going straight to your gut.
- Cognitive Function and Emotional Well-being: This is the last big benefit. Maybe it’s just me or maybe its the fact that I live in a household of girls but I find myself more emotional as I age. (its probably being surrounded by chicks all the time). But either way GH has been linked to cognitive function, memory, and mood regulation. It influences the development and function of the central nervous system, including the brain. Adequate levels of growth hormone are important for optimal cognitive function and emotional well-being.
So you get 3 major benefits. Increased muscle mass, less fat and a bump in cognition. Nobody will say no to that! Lets explore how growth hormone secretagogues can safely help with this.
How Growth Hormone Secretagogues increase growth hormone levels:
This part is going to get deep into the science so hold on tight:
Growth hormone secretagogues (GHSs) work by binding to specific receptors on the cells of the pituitary gland, known as growth hormone secretagogue receptors (GHSRs). This binding triggers a series of signaling pathways that ultimately result in the secretion of GH into the bloodstream.
Fairly simple right??
Lets go a little further…..
The main mechanism of action of growth hormone secretagogues involves stimulating the production and release of a hormone called ghrelin. Ghrelin is primarily produced by the stomach and acts as a natural growth hormone secretagogue. It binds to growth hormone secretagogue receptors on the pituitary gland and stimulates GH release.
Growth hormone secretagogues can enhance the actions of ghrelin or mimic its effects by directly binding to receptors. By activating these receptors you get a cascade of intracellular events that lead to an increase in intracellular calcium levels, activation of protein kinases, and subsequent stimulation of GH synthesis and secretion. BAM 💥💥💥
Are you still following (its normal to have to read that a few times) hahaha.
Additionally you also get a suppression of somatostatin, a hormone that inhibits GH release. By inhibiting somatostatin, growth hormone secretagogues further promote the release of GH from the pituitary gland.
Double whammy!!
Lets summarize this:
Growth hormone secretagogues work in coordination with the body’s natural regulatory mechanisms. They respond to external signals and release GH in a manner, similar to the normal pattern observed in the human body. They do this by activating the growth hormone secretagogue receptors which does 3 things: It triggers intracellular pathways, enhances effects of ghrelin and inhibits somastatin.
These mechanisms contribute to the overall regulation of growth hormone secretion and provide a targeted approach for getting the right amount of growth hormone production.
That it!!
Why you should consider growth hormone secretagogues over traditional growth hormone.
Growth hormone has been a staple in the bodybuilding community for decades. The reason is that it works! Its fantastic at adding muscle mass and reducing fat.
But its very expensive! And like I said earlier I have girls at home and we all know they are F****G expensive too!
Also we need to consider that anytime we add a supplement to our body that is beyond what it normally produces there are risks.
This is why growth hormone secretagogues are so great. They work directly on the pituitary gland which produces growth hormone. But not beyond what is normal for the body.
We said earlier that as we age we have less growth hormone in our body. Growth hormone secretagogues will bring you back up to where you should be.
But we if we are producing all we need? Then guess what it ai’nt going to do a damn thing. Sorry🤷♂️😒🤷♂️😒
There are 4 different types of growth hormone secretagogues
There are several different types of growth hormone secretagogues (GHSs) that have been developed and studied for their ability to stimulate growth hormone (GH) release. These include:
- Peptide-Based growth hormone secretagogues: These are small peptides (proteins) arranged in a sequence. They are most frequently injected. One of the most well-known and widely studied peptide is ipamorelin. Other peptide-based GHSs include tesamorelin and hexarelin. These peptides bind to GHSRs on the pituitary gland and stimulate GH release.
- Non-peptide GHSs: These are small, non-peptide compounds that act as growth hormone secretagogues. They work by directly binding to GHSRs and activating the signaling pathways that lead to GH release. One notable example of a non-peptide GHS is ibutamoren (also known as MK-677). Ibutamoren has gained attention for its potential to increase GH levels without affecting other hormones such as cortisol.
- Ghrelin Receptor Agonists: These compounds specifically target and activate the ghrelin receptor (GHSR) without directly mimicking the structure of ghrelin. They bind to the GHSR and stimulate GH release. Some examples of ghrelin receptor agonists include macimorelin and anamorelin. These agonists offer a more selective approach to targeting the ghrelin receptor and stimulating GH secretion.
- Ghrelin Receptor Antagonists: While not strictly classified as growth hormone secretagogues, ghrelin receptor antagonists have been developed as potential therapeutic agents. These compounds block the action of ghrelin at the GHSR, effectively inhibiting the release of GH. By blocking the ghrelin receptor, these antagonists can help reduce GH levels in conditions characterized by excessive GH secretion, such as acromegaly.
It’s worth noting that the development and use of different types of growth hormone secretagogues are still an active area of research, and their efficacy and safety profiles continue to be investigated. Furthermore, the availability and regulatory status of specific GHSs may vary in different countries. Therefore, it is important to consult with healthcare professionals and follow prescribed guidelines when considering the use of any growth hormone secretagogue.
Safety and Side Effects of Growth Hormone Secretagogues:
Common sense would say that anytime you consider a supplement you should have a good understanding of its safety and side effects. But we all know common sense isnt all that common.
The best place to look for information on a supplement is pub med and read the articles about studies done on the side effects.
Most doctors would argue with me but I also think forums are a great place to talk to people about their experiences with supplements. Look out for trends on these forums and consider that when you are looking at a supplement.
Here is a good article on growth hormone seceagouges: The Safety and Efficacy of Growth Hormone Secretagogues – PubMed (nih.gov)
Here is another one: Growth Hormone in Aging – PubMed (nih.gov)
Here is my summary after reading as much as I could on it.
- Safety Profile: GHSs have generally shown a good safety profile when used appropriately under medical supervision. However, it’s important to note that long-term safety data for some GHSs are still limited, as they are relatively newer compounds that continue to be studied. This is the biggest concern. There is not a lot of long term data on these drugs.
- Common Side Effects: Some common side effects associated with GHSs include:a. Increased Hunger: GHSs, particularly those that mimic the actions of ghrelin, may increase appetite and lead to increased hunger. This effect can be managed by adjusting the dosage or timing of administration and ensuring a balanced diet.b. Water Retention: Some individuals may experience temporary water retention or fluid retention as a side effect of GHS use. This can lead to mild swelling in the extremities. Adequate hydration and monitoring of fluid balance can help mitigate this side effect.c. Insulin Sensitivity: Certain GHSs, especially those that increase GH and IGF-1 levels, may have an impact on insulin sensitivity. This can potentially lead to higher blood glucose levels or increased risk of developing insulin resistance in susceptible individuals. Monitoring blood glucose levels and working closely with a healthcare professional can help manage this side effect.d. Fatigue and Sleep Disturbances: Some individuals may experience temporary fatigue or disruptions in sleep patterns when initiating GHS treatment. These effects are usually transient and may resolve over time.
- Rare Side Effects: While uncommon, there have been reports of more serious side effects associated with GHS use. These can include:a. Cardiovascular Effects: Some GHSs may have an impact on cardiovascular parameters such as blood pressure and heart rate. Monitoring these parameters regularly is important, particularly in individuals with pre-existing cardiovascular conditions.b. Growth of Pre-existing Tumors: Since GH can stimulate cell growth, there is a theoretical concern that GHSs could promote the growth of pre-existing tumors. Individuals with a history of cancer or those at increased risk should use GHSs with caution and under the guidance of a healthcare professional.
- Individual Variability: It’s essential to recognize that individuals may respond differently to GHS treatment, and the occurrence and severity of side effects can vary. Close monitoring by a healthcare professional is crucial to identify and manage any adverse effects that may arise during treatment.
It’s important to emphasize that growth hormone secretagogues should be used under the supervision of a qualified healthcare professional, who can assess the individual’s specific circumstances, monitor treatment progress, and make adjustments as needed. They can provide personalized guidance on dosage, timing, and potential side effects based on the individual’s health status and goals.
My experience with growth hormone secreagouges:
I used Ipamorelin/CJC 1295 for 8 weeks. It was great. I have been working out for years but have always had trouble putting on muscle. As I have gotten older I have also noticed more aches and pains when working out. These were diminished when using the supplement.
During the 8 weeks my diet was near perfect (probably the best its every been). I worked out 6 times a week. Using a push/pull/legs split and working each group twice a week.
I had done this before with good results but the growth hormone secretagouges really pushed everything further. I will never recomend a growth hormone secretagouge unless all other parts of your program are perfect. If your not eating right, sleeping and exercising dont waste your time with this suppleemnt.
Will I use it again? Yes most likely. It felt beneficial to me but like I said all other areas of my program were also very strong so its always difficult to say how big of a differnce it made.
Lets wrap this party up:
Delving into the world of growth hormone secretagogues has been an enlightening journey. From stimulating muscle growth to enhancing metabolism, these little compounds pack a big pucnh. But don’t take this supplement lightly. It should be well reserached and taken under the care of a doctor.
While GHSs offer exciting possibilities, it’s important to approach them with caution and consult with the experts. Remember, the goal is to boost growth hormone, not turn into the next liver king.
So, whether you’re a fitness enthusiast, an aging superhero in disguise, or just someone looking for a growth spurt to reach that top shelf, growth hormone secretagogues may hold the key.
Good Luck!
Here are a few other articles you may enjoy:
Preventing muscle loss on semaglutide
The Secret to Boosting Brain Power
Written by Alex Parton
