Growth hormone (GH) is a vital hormone produced by the pituitary gland that stimulates growth, cell reproduction and regeneration. As we age, our bodies naturally produce less growth hormone. By the time we reach middle age, production has already decreased by up to 14% per decade. This can lead to symptoms like decreased muscle mass, increased body fat, low energy, and impacts on cholesterol levels.
Diagnosing low GH involves blood tests to measure IGF-1 levels. Doctors consider an IGF-1 level below the normal range for your age and sex to indicate possible growth hormone deficiency (GHD). Along with screening physical symptoms, your physician can determine if you may benefit from GH therapy.
Benefits of GH therapy include:
If low IGF-1 levels suggest GHD, Balanced Hormones Center offers state-of-the-art GH treatment programs tailored to your unique health profile. Their clinics use the latest diagnostic tests and only prescribe bioidentical human growth hormones to restore natural hormone balance. Patients see excellent improvements in energy, body composition and quality of life.
Who suffers from low GH?
While GHD can happen at any age, adults over 30 are more likely to develop lower GH levels. Contributing factors include:
The most common cause is age-related decline as the body naturally decreases GH production over time. Lifestyle factors like poor diet, lack of exercise, and chronic stress can also play a role for some patients.
If you exhibit symptoms like persistent fatigue, muscle loss, emotional changes or decreased zest for life along with health screening results indicating below normal IGF-1, consult your doctor. Proper testing can diagnose adult growth hormone deficiency. In some cases, GH replacement therapy can help patients regain vim, vigor and a vibrant quality of life. Speak to your physician or contact the experts at Balanced Hormones Center to determine if GH treatment is right for you.