IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor-1) and HGH (human growth hormone) are hormones that play complicated roles in aging. The relationship between the two is that GH is secreted by your pituitary gland, which stimulates IGF-1 production by action on your liver, where it’s made. This close relationship between HGH and IGF-1 causes many to fuse the two.
Comparing IGF-1 & HGH
IGF-1 mediates the growth-promoting effects most of us associate with HGH because it stimulates cell proliferation, growth, and survival. IGF-1 is used where more performance-driven goals like maximizing growth and maintaining muscle and neurons are desired. It produces reduced insulin levels compared to HGH, which can increase insulin.
HGH possesses some extra advantages (general rejuvenation of the body, the skin becoming smoother, hair growing quicker, and a lot more), which are absent with IGF-1.
IGF-1 has immediate effects, whereas HGH has a longer loading period. Taking both together is a popular supplement for bodybuilders.
IGF-1 can help reduce the insulin resistance caused by HGH when taken together.
Facts About IGF-1 and HGH
Here are some relevant facts about both of these hormones:
- IGF-1 plays a key role in promoting and maintaining muscle mass and neuro function.
- Exercise can encourage growth hormone release and thus IGF-1.
- Exercised-induced neurogenesis is mediated through IGF-1 induced during exercise.
- IGF-1 acts as a neurotrophic factor in the brain, contributing to the growth of new brain cells and the survival of existing neurons.
- IGF-1 is released in response to HGH. It is anabolic, promoting growth and repairing skeletal muscle.
- The process of HGH release in response to exercise is proportional to how strenuous the activity is.
- A 30-60 minute sauna session increases HGH by 140 percent.
- A person can adapt to strenuous activity and not experience a decrease in HGH over time.
Types of IGF-1 and HGH
HGH is a commercially produced medication with different brand names (e.g., Norditropin, Omnitrope, Genotropin, Nutropin).
IGF-1 is a compounded medication and is made by compounding pharmacies. There are two forms of IGF-1, a long-acting version and a short-acting version. Both hormones are available as a subcutaneous injection.
Learn more about the types of IGF-1 here.
About IGF-1
Here's a bit more about IGF-1 and why it works.
Benefits of IGF-1
IGF-1 is highly linked to optimal sugar use in the body, which can make it a powerful component in your efforts to lose weight. When properly administered, it can aid in the weight loss process.
IGF-1 is also known for its ability to increase muscle mass. It can help increase the development of lean muscle body tissue, which will also help smooth out or help improve the shape of users. This means that there will be body composition shifts. The pounds won’t melt off; you will gradually appear leaner because muscle development is balanced.
How IGF-1 Can Affect You
IGF-1 alone won’t result in weight loss but can help lean muscle development. However, incorporating IGF-1 alongside a balanced diet together with increased cardiovascular and resistance workouts will result in faster weight loss over time.
IGF-1 is not promoted as a weight loss tool. Weight loss is a side effect of IGF-1 use. When using IGF-1, more lean muscle mass is developed, more energy contributes to better workouts, and improved recovery times allow less time between workouts.
Healthy Use of IGF-1
Including IGF-1 as a part of a healthy, balanced diet plan can help shift body composition and therefore affect metabolism. When your body is burning more calories and developing additional lean muscle mass, increased weight loss in a shorter period will likely happen.
Learn more about the Growth Hormone Therapy options we offer here. Or get in touch if you have questions or want to get started.