Human growth hormone (HGH), also known as somatotropin, is an important hormone produced in the pituitary gland that stimulates growth, cell reproduction and regeneration. As the name suggests, it plays a key role in growth during childhood and adolescence, but continues to have important functions throughout life related to metabolism, cognition and more.
Those with HGH deficiency may experience decreased muscle mass and strength, increased body fat (especially around the waist), poor memory or concentration, lack of motivation, low libido, hair loss, hot flashes, and joint pain or stiffness. Skin may become thin and dry-looking. Recovery from illness or injury slows down. In children, HGH deficiency can result in growth failure and short stature if not treated early.
The most common causes of HGH deficiency include pituitary gland injury or tumors, radiation treatment or surgery in the head/neck area, traumatic brain injury, and some genetic conditions. Natural HGH production also slowly declines with age after peaking in the early 20s, sometimes leading to deficiency symptoms later in life.
Since symptoms are often vague, blood tests are needed to confirm an HGH deficiency. The most accurate test is an insulin tolerance test measuring HGH levels after insulin-induced low blood sugar. Other stimulation tests check HGH levels before and after arginine, clonidine, glucagon or L-dopa administration. Along with stimulation tests, IGF-1 levels may be checked as this growth factor is released in response to HGH.
HGH therapy for deficiency involves subcutaneous injections of biosynthetic human growth hormone to restore levels and relieve associated symptoms. Injections are given once daily, typically in the evening when natural HGH production peaks. Most patients notice gradual improvements over 6-12 months as hormone levels normalize.
Research shows HGH therapy can help build lean muscle, reduce belly fat, support better mood and cognitive function, strengthen bones, improve skin thickness and texture, boost energy and immunity, enhance exercise capacity, and speed healing. Patients often feel decades younger on optimized therapy.
While athletes have illegally used HGH to enhance performance, legitimate medical usage is legal with a valid prescription. However, human growth hormone is a controlled substance due to some abuse history. HGH through Elite Hormone Therapy is pharmacy-grade and physician-prescribed specifically for deficiency treatment, not enhancement.
When used properly under medical supervision, side effects are typically minimal but may include joint pain/swelling, carpal tunnel syndrome, fluid retention or high blood sugar. Misusing extremely high doses could potentially lead to type 2 diabetes risk or other issues in the long run.
An extensive initial consultation covers medical history, symptoms, lifestyle factors, and treatment goals to determine if HGH therapy is appropriate. If deficiency is suspected, stimulation testing is ordered to measure pituitary response and confirm low growth hormone levels.
Once diagnosed with HGH deficiency, a tailored treatment plan is developed includingeducation on properly self-administering injections. The starting dosage is weight-based and often adjusted over several months based on clinical response and follow-up lab work to optimize results.
Patients are closely monitored by our highly-trained hormone specialists during therapy for safety and efficacy. Follow-up consults assess treatment response through exams and labs. The medical team collaboratively manages any side effects and makes dosage adjustments as needed.
Lifestyle, nutrition and fitness recommendations help patients achieve their goals during HGH therapy. Referrals are made to therapists, personal trainers or other specialists for customized support. We emphasize a collaborative, integrative approach for optimal wellbeing.
With societal obsession over youth and aging, some "anti-aging" or "age management" clinics irresponsibly market growth hormone as a fountain of youth without properly diagnosing deficiencies. However, inappropriate use can lead to health deterioration over time. This unethical, illegal practice gives HGH therapy an undeserved bad reputation.
Legitimate HGH deficiency causes very real physical and mental decline that worsens over time, reducing quality and longevity of life. Muscle wasting, cardiovascular disease, anxiety, depression and impaired immunity are just some consequences. Seeking proper diagnosis and treatment can prevent unnecessary suffering.
When seeking HGH therapy, find an established clinic like Elite Hormone Therapy with physicians fully licensed and specializing specifically in hormone deficiencies and replacement. Medical directors should have impeccable credentials. Beware of "anti-aging" clinics offering treatments without complete diagnostic workups. Only appropriate, monitored therapy is safe and effective.
While often associated with performance enhancement and anti-aging, HGH therapy has also shown promise for enhancing wound healing in severe burn victims. In one study, giving HGH injections significantly improved healing rates and reduced hospital stays compared to placebo in people with major burns covering over 30% of their bodies.
Our distinguished medical team has decades of combined experience successfully treating growth hormone deficiency. Our licensed hormone physicians stay current on the latest research and continually refine protocols for optimal outcomes. We are experts on the complex endocrine system and tailor treatment accordingly.
In our state-of-the-art facility, we utilize the most advanced diagnostic techniques like insulin tolerance testing for accurately identifying HGH deficiency. We also incorporate genetic, blood and metabolic testing to uncover root causes and customize therapies addressing your unique biochemistry.
Elite Hormone Therapy goes beyond hormones to optimize overall wellness - mind, body and spirit. Our providers spend extensive time listening and designing comprehensive plans encompassing nutrition, stress management, fitness and more for true life-changing results from the inside out. We support the full self-healing journey.
Hormone therapy is as much an art as science. With over 20 years' experience restoring thousands of patients to peak vitality in the Woodland Hills area and beyond, Elite Hormone Therapy offers proven HGH therapy expertise, safety protocols and consistent success. We are your trusted partner for the treatment journey.
Balancing macronutrients to build / maintain lean muscle while reducing fat stores through HGH therapy is key. Consult our nutritionists about specific diet strategies for your needs. Local healthy eateries like Green Life Cafe offer delicious, HGH-friendly meals. Consider body composition testing at Peak Fitness gym quarterly.
Managing life demands through sufficient sleep, relaxation practices like breathwork/yoga, and addressing any mood issues supports HGH therapy goals. The Center for Mind-Body Healing and Dr. Susan Raines provide stress/behavioral health expertise. Enjoy serene hikes on local trails.
Strength training and HIIT workouts at True Grit Fitness optimize fitness/function while adequate rest promotes hormone balance and tissue repair. Our physical therapists through Playa Rehab can help manage any joint pain and target problem areas. Therapeutic massage at Woodland Hills Spa furthers recovery.
Conclusion
In summary, legitimate HGH deficiency causes significant symptoms that typically worsen over time, negatively impacting quality of life. While some "anti-aging" clinics unethically market growth hormone to desperate patients, Elite Hormone Therapy specializes in accurately diagnosing and properly treating deficiencies through our expert medical team, advanced testing, integrative protocols and over 20 years' experience restoring wellness in the Woodland Hills community and beyond. Alongside HGH therapy, we provide tailored lifestyle recommendations and referrals to reputable local practitioners for ongoing support. If suffering from low energy, increased body fat, poor sleep or other common deficiency issues, contact Elite Hormone Therapy today to explore treatment options for living your healthiest, most vibrant life.
