What is HGH?

HGH is being billed as the 'latest medical marvel' and a 'fountain of youth in bottle'. If you've been keeping up on the latest health news, you are probably wondering: just what is HGH? The initials stand for Human Growth Hormone. It is a chemical naturally produced by the pituitary gland in the human brain. Although the human body produces many hormones, all essential to health, this is quickly becoming recognized as the most important one.

Children and adolescents have the highest levels of HGH. It is absolutely vital for the growth and development of their young minds and bodies. Recently, researchers have been discovering how important it is for adults, especially older adults. The pituitary gland continues producing HGH throughout the lifetime. However, once adulthood is reached the amount of HGH produced continuously decreases. It has been discovered that adult brains, after the age of 30, may produce as much as 14% less HGH each year. This sharp decline can begin as early as age 21.

This is an extremely complex protein chain consisting of 191 amino acids. It stimulates cells to grow and function properly. After extensive research on the effects of declining HGH levels, scientists began working on creating a method of producing it in a supplement form.

As the naturally occurring levels of HGH decline, vitality declines. HGH has been called the "master hormone" due to the direct effect it has on cells, organs, and tissue mass throughout the body. It actually stimulates cell generation, vital for growth, repair, or rejuvenation. Often touted as the body builder's supplement, HGH has been shown to significantly decrease body fat while at the same time increasing overall muscle mass. Another benefit that appeals to body builders is the capacity to repair damaged cells and heal from injuries more quickly. It helps restore the body to it's once youthful resilience. Naturally body builders appreciate this, but then: Who wouldn't?

One of the most sought after benefits of HGH is the increase in sexual performance. In the past people have simply accepted that one of the side effects of aging is decreased libido. However, this has been directly linked to the declining HGH levels. Users of the supplements have reported an increase in sexual stamina of up to 75%. In addition to improved sexual performance, HGH can help to regain that sexy body of youth.

Studies have shown that decreasing levels of natural HGH not only contribute to the middle age bulge, but thinning hair and wrinkles as well. Those who take HGH supplements daily have reported smoother skin, stronger fingernails, an overall increase in strength and energy - with a reduction in fatigue and hair loss.

Despite the universal appeal of looking and feeling young again, perhaps the most important effects of HGH are those that you can't see, and can't necessarily feel. Low levels of HGH have been linked to some potentially serious side effects such as weakened heart, deterioration of the kidneys, loss of bone strength, high cholesterol, and poor immune system. It has also been linked with the mental decline that typically occurs with aging. Increased HGH levels have been shown to increase mental clarity, as well as improve memory. The overall effects of taking HGH supplements varies from one individual to another. However, most report the most noticeable effect after about six months of use. Within the first couple of months, most notice an increase in energy and improvement in muscle and skin tone. Many also notice hair and fingernails beginning to grow, or some weight loss.

Around the third to fourth month most report a noticeable increase in sex drive. This is also when weight loss and muscle tone start becoming very noticeable. By the sixth month the results are dramatic. The vast majority of HGH users report feeling the full benefits by this time.

As HGH research continues, scientists are finding out more about how vital it is to every aspect of health and wellness. In fact, HGH is now thought to be a factor in the skeletal decline resulting in osteoporosis, as well as breathing difficulties and oxygen deficiencies. In conclusion, to answer the initial question of what is HGH - it is the key to lasting health, clarity, and vitality. Perhaps HGH truly is the elusive fountain of youth sought after for centuries.