Human growth hormone (HGH) is released by the pituitary gland. This peptide hormone plays a role in several functions that keep us looking and feeling young.
After about age 20, HGH production begins to decrease. The injectable hormone is banned in Canada. If abused, it can create severe side effects such as distortion and enlargement of organs and bones, as well as cause diabetes, heart disease and impotence.
However, there are several products available that claim to safely stimulate the body’s production of HGH. These products contain herbs, amino acids, vitamins and minerals. There is no evidence they really work and no long-term studies to support their claims, but they are safe when used properly. If you currently use prescription drugs, talk to your pharmacist or doctor about possible drug interactions.
Several lifestyle practices can naturally boost your HGH production:
- Get adequate sleep. Most HGH is released during deep sleep.
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Exercise. HGH is also released during physical activity. Try to be moderately active on a regular basis.
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Avoid sugar and other highly refined and processed foods (also called simple carbohydrates). These can make the pancreas release large amounts of insulin. Insulin and HGH are antagonists, so when insulin levels rise, HGH levels fall. Especially avoid poor carbohydrate choices near bedtime, as it will interfere with your body’s release of HGH during sleep. Cut back on simple carbohydrates or foods altered by humans. Choose complex carbohydrates (fruit, vegetables, root vegetables, legumes and grains) in the form Mother Nature created them.
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Other inhibitors of HGH include stress, being overweight, a diet high in “unhealthy fats,” like saturated and trans fats, and alcohol (which is another highly processed, simple sugar). A poor diet, in general, affects HGH production because nutrient deficiencies reduce the release of HGH.
More good advice to aging healthfully:
- Exercise your body and your mind.
- Eat sensibly and nutritionally.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Avoid trendy quick-weight-loss diets.
- Use sunscreen and avoid getting too much sun.
- Don’t smoke and avoid second-hand smoke.
- Learn to control your reaction to stressful situations.
- Take time to relax and smell the roses: Slow the pace of your life and you’ll slow the aging process.
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Eve Lees has been active in the health & fitness industry since 1979. Currently, she is a Freelance Health Writer for several publication and speaks to business and private groups on various health topics.