Written by Sarah Thompson - January 15, 2023
Fasting has been studied as a form of dietary intervention for centuries. It remains one of the most effective and unique strategies for promoting healthful changes in our bodies, with some researchers even suggesting that prolonged fasting is linked to increased production of Human Growth Hormone (HGH).
What is Human Growth Hormone?
HGH is one of the primary hormones responsible for growth and development during childhood. In adulthood, it helps maintain muscle mass, bone density, healthy skin, hair, and nails, as well as regulating fat metabolism. When production decreases over time (as it does with age) it can contribute to symptoms such as fatigue, emotional disturbance, an increase in body fat percentage, and decline in muscle mass.
Does Fasting Increase HGH Production?
Studies indicate that prolonged fasting induces metabolic changes which may encourage the body to produce more HGH. A study conducted in 2007 measured plasma levels of HGH among intermittent fasters against those on a calorie-restricted diet and found that both protocols led to substantially higher levels than those consuming regular diets. Most participants had significantly higher elevated levels at 48 hours after beginning the fast compared to baseline levels prior to commencing the fast.
However, more research is needed to draw firm conclusions about what types of fasting regimens lead to increased HGH production and how sustained this effect may be in the long-term.
Benefits of Fasting
There are many known benefits associated with shorter-term fasting including weight loss due to improved insulin sensitivity and better control over hunger cravings; enhanced cell regeneration; lower cholesterol; reduced inflammation; improved moods; boosted immunity; sharper cognitive functioning; decreased risk for disease processes such as cancer or Type 2 Diabetes; normalization of hormone imbalances such as leptin and ghrelin; slowed aging process by decreasing oxidative stress damage to cells–all of which may culminate into better overall health outcomes.
Fasting has been practiced by cultures around the world since ancient times so we know that it is generally safe when practiced correctly under medical supervision if necessary or desired. However, it should not be undertaken without proper planning or regard for individual health factors such as general wellness status or preexisting conditions like diabetes or heart disease before starting any new regimen. Further scientific evidence would need to be considered before making any recommendations regarding fasting’s effects on human growth hormone release patterns.
Although additional research data is needed before definitive conclusions can be made on whether longer-term fasting increases GHG secretion rates within individuals– high-quality studies have shown that intermittent fasting when done responsibly can certainly provide a great number of potential health benefits from improving insulin sensitivity all the way up through enhanced cellular regeneration processes potentially leading us towards greater longevity & vitality.Hormone Treatment Center provides comprehensive hormone optimization services tailored for each individual patient's set of needs so stop by their clinic today if you're ready make healthier lifestyle choices!
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