The human growth hormone is one of the most important hormones in the human body. It is produced by the pituitary gland in the brain. This helps in muscle development, fat burning, and various other processes that are essential for the healthy functioning of the human body.
Pituitary growth hormone, which is also called human growth hormone (HGH), is secreted by the pituitary gland that is located in the mid section of the brain. There are about 191 amino acids contained in this hormone, which makes it one of the largest hormone secretions. These large number of amino acids aid the body in a vast number of ways. Among these, body building and muscle strengthening are the highly explored areas.
This hormone can now be bought off the shelf in all major medical stores in the form of pills. These pills are regularly used by bodybuilders, athletes and others for muscle and mass enhancement. One of the big advantages offered by these pills is the quick absorption of it in the body and its rapid dissipation of its remains from the bloodstream. These pills contain proteins that are synthesized for the purpose of consumption which also affect the metabolism rates in the human body.
HGH and Muscle Growth
When this hormone is introduced into the body, it causes the cells to grow and divide themselves into additional cells at a faster rate. This is what causes the muscle to visibly grow. Moreover, it induces the body to secrete the IGF-1, another hormone that aids in cell growth and division. The cells in the body are naturally equipped with receptors for these hormones, and this process is known as hypertrophy, or hyperplasia.
This hormone also aid the body in burning fat, because when the fat cells come in contact with these, they start getting converted into energy. This process is known as lipolysis, which is also commonly called fat-burning. This hormone is commonly used by athletes, as it helps them maintain their fat levels, and simultaneously increase their muscle mass.
The absorption of this hormone into the body leads to the production of a compound known as somatomedin-C, or insulin. This compound generates the necessary energy required for the body and aids in other metabolic activities. Insulin is necessary for maintaining sugar levels in the blood. Low amounts of insulin in the body causes diabetes, which happens to be a major health issue.
Deficiency
The deficiency of this growth hormone in the body leads to a condition known as dwarfism. An individual affected by this condition is unable to grow completely, and his body appears stunted. This has now become a clinically recognized syndrome. The symptoms of this syndrome are increased fat levels, reduced muscle mass and bone mass, reduced strength, and endurance.
Other symptoms include a weak immune system with lesser vitality in life, which may lead to various psychological complications. People undergoing treatment for pituitary gland tumors are most likely to be affected by its deficiency. These factors affect the production of the hormone in the gland, and has an adverse effect on the overall quality of life.
Side Effects
Inappropriate intake of these hormones especially without a proper prescription may result in some severe complications and side effects. The most common side effects are muscle pain and joint pain, which is fairly mild most of the time, but can get very painful occasionally. Fluid retention also becomes greater in the body, which carries its own risks.
The side effects could be dealt with a gradual change in the dosage. All this can only be done after getting a prescription and a recommendation from an experienced and qualified doctor.
Pituitary growth hormone is vital for the survival and the sustenance of the human body. Appropriate measures must be taken to maintain the required levels in the body, which includes consulting a health expert from time to time.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is solely for educating the reader. It is not intended to be a substitute for the advice of a medical expert.
