Is the decrease in secretion of human growth hormone natural as we age or should it be treated as a disease?

Question by sds aad: Is the decrease in secretion of human growth hormone natural as we age or should it be treated as a disease?
And therefore need to administer hormone replacement therapy? Is the body "supposed" to have decreased levels as we get older? Are there any negatives to replacing it?


Best answer:

Answer by Lone Wolf
Well, good question. Whether it is "natural" or not, it is ubiquitous. I think of it as inseparable from the aging process since it is tied in to virtually every aspect of our well being. It fortifies our immune system, builds muscle, and burns fat.

Natural release of HGR by the pituitary is stimulated by many things, sleep, exercise, caloric restriction. It is restricted by some dietary items (simple carbohydrates/sugars and "protein" - quotes because it is just certain amino acids and not the whole protein molecule) and stimulated by other amino acids (Arginine, Ornithine, Tryptophan for instance).

The only reason I can think of not to try and stimulate the release (I am not in favor of injections except for extreme cases) is if there is a pre-existing cancerous growth - it could cause that growth to be stimulated.

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