Human growth hormone, commonly referred as HGH, is a name for the hormone called somatotropin that is produced in the pituitary gland. Without HGH, a human would not mature from a infant into an adult, thus making this hormone vitally important, especially in the early stages of life and development. This hormone is responsible for driving growth beyond childhood and into puberty, further pushing the aging process and controlling when a person matures from one stage of life to the next. HGH is also important in determine the size and shape of an individual. In recent years, human growth hormone has grown to be a supplement that many people are seeking more information about.  Before taking any new supplement it is best to figure out how it works and how it affects the body.  Therefore, it is a good move to ask the question, ‘what does HGH do?‘

What Does HGH Do To The Body?

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  • Increases calcium retention by the body from food sources and strengthens the bones, increasing the mineralization of bone which makes the skeleton harder and more resistant to injury.
  • Increases muscle mass of the body through the absorption of proteins.
  • Increases protein synthesis from food sources which drives expansion of new muscle tissue and the strengthening of existing tissues.
  • Stimulates the growth of all internal organs except the brain.
  • Plays a role in homeostasis, otherwise known as regulating overall health and promoting regularity.
  • Reduces the liver’s absorption of glucose, preventing the liver from becoming hardened or damaged.
  • Contributes to the maintenance and function of pancreatic islets.
  • Stimulates the immune system to perform effectively and efficiently.

All of these functions are managed by normal levels of human growth hormone. However, having too much HGH can actually be harmful and lead to some serious conditions. Here is a list of problems that can arise from having too much HGH in the body.

  • Growth of tumors in the pituitary gland, resulting in vision problems, headaches and an interruption of other pituitary gland functions
  • Excessive growth of the jaw, fingers and toes. Jump in weight may impede function of these appendages
  • Sexual dysfunction often occurs, such as erectile dysfunction of trouble achieving orgasm
  • Furthermore, having too little human growth hormone can also cause a problem as demonstrated by these effects.
  • Failing to reach full growth potential or demonstrating abnormally small growth throughout the entire body or localized, such as in the extremities
  • Malformed or inoperative limbs
  • Decreased mass and energy levels
  • Lack of sex drive
  • Muscle weakness and lack of definition

Outside from fueling normal human growth, HGH is sometimes used by athletes in order to gain an edge over their competition. While the legality of using HGH for sporting events differs depending on the sport, it is generally frowned on and thought to be unsportsmanlike. Furthermore, harsh penalties are often levied against athletes who use HGH, such as fines and expulsion from play. Evidence supporting HGH’s benefits in enhancing athletic prowess is noticeably lacking but rumors of its effectiveness still drive many athletes to inject themselves with the hormone.

Answering the question of ‘what does HGH do?’ should just be the beginning of your research before deciding on using this supplement.  There are many studies being performed to figure out how effective human growth hormone is and what possible side effects can occur.  Be sure to study up on the latest study results so that you are fully informed.