At MD Total Wellness, we are dedicated to helping you achieve optimal health and wellness using natural and root-cause therapies. Growth hormone (GH) plays a crucial role in maintaining vitality, but its levels naturally decline with age. In this article, we’ll explore what GH is, the effects of its decline, and how optimizing it—particularly through therapies like sermorelin—can enhance your wellness.
Our goal is to educate you on these options and encourage you to consult with our experts for personalized wellness care.
Growth hormone (GH), also known as human growth hormone (HGH), is a peptide hormone produced by the pituitary gland in the brain.1 It stimulates growth, cell reproduction, and regeneration in humans. In children and adolescents, GH is essential for linear growth, promoting the development of bones and cartilage. In adults, it helps maintain normal body structure, metabolism, and organ function. GH influences protein synthesis, fat metabolism, and carbohydrate utilization, contributing to muscle mass, bone density, and energy levels. It also plays a role in immune function, cognitive health, and overall vitality.
As we age, GH production naturally diminishes. Peak GH secretion occurs during puberty, with levels starting to decline around age 30.2 Studies indicate that GH secretion decreases by approximately 14% per decade after the age of 30. By age 60, GH levels may be significantly reduced. This decline is more pronounced in women under 60 and varies by individual factors like lifestyle and health. Factors such as poor sleep, stress, and obesity can accelerate this reduction.
Low GH levels can lead to a range of symptoms affecting quality of life. Common effects include increased body fat, particularly around the abdomen, decreased muscle mass and strength, and reduced bone density, raising the risk of osteoporosis.3 Other impacts may involve fatigue, low energy, anxiety, depression, and diminished sexual function.4 Cognitive decline, such as memory issues, and a reduced sense of well-being are also associated with GH deficiency. In severe cases, it can contribute to metabolic disorders like insulin resistance and cardiovascular risks.
Optimizing GH levels can restore vitality and improve overall health. Benefits include enhanced muscle mass and strength, reduced body fat, and improved bone density.5 Patients often report increased energy, better sleep, and enhanced cognitive function. GH optimization may also support immune health, wound healing, and metabolic balance, potentially slowing aspects of aging.6 For those with age-related decline, it can lead to greater exercise capacity and a more youthful body composition.
One effective approach to GH optimization is through sermorelin, a growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) analog. Sermorelin was FDA-approved for treating GH deficiency in children and studied for its safety and efficacy.8 However, the branded product was discontinued in 2008 for economic reasons, not due to safety concerns.7 Today, non-FDA-approved formulations are available for off-label and research use in adults seeking wellness benefits.
Sermorelin works by stimulating the pituitary gland to produce and release natural GH, mimicking the body’s own regulatory processes.9 This is often preferable to direct GH injections because it maintains the natural feedback loop, potentially leading to more sustained and balanced GH levels with fewer side effects. Unlike exogenous GH, which can suppress natural production, sermorelin promotes endogenous secretion, resulting in a more physiological response. At MD Total Wellness, we use sermorelin for wellness optimization in adults experiencing age-related GH decline.
At MD Total Wellness, we frequently combine sermorelin with testosterone therapy (TRT) or bioidentical hormone therapy (BHRT) for synergistic effects. Testosterone and BHRT serve as foundational treatments for hormonal balance, addressing issues like low energy and libido. Adding sermorelin enhances vitality by boosting GH, leading to improved muscle tone, fat loss, and overall well-being.10 This combination can amplify benefits such as stronger erections, better skin health, and enhanced physical performance.
While GH optimization offers benefits, it’s not without risks. Excessive GH can promote tumor growth there is a pre-existing tumor or cancer.11 Overuse may lead to acromegaly-like symptoms, including joint pain, skin changes, and bone enlargement.12 Other potential side effects include fluid retention, carpal tunnel syndrome, and insulin resistance. It’s crucial to undergo therapy under medical supervision to mitigate these risks.
Monitoring is key to safe and effective GH optimization. We track symptoms such as energy levels, sleep quality, and body composition changes. Blood tests for insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1) levels are useful, as IGF-1 reflects GH activity and helps adjust dosing.13 Regular IGF-1 measurements, typically every 6-12 months once stabilized, ensure levels remain within safe, age-appropriate ranges. At MD Total Wellness, we combine lab results with patient feedback for optimal outcomes.
Optimizing growth hormone through therapies like sermorelin can be a valuable intervention for enhancing wellness and vitality, especially as levels decline with age. When combined with TRT or BHRT, it offers comprehensive hormonal support. However, benefits must be weighed against potential risks, and professional guidance is essential.
Contact MD Total Wellness today to schedule a consultation. Our experts will assess your hormone levels and create a personalized plan to help you feel your best. Call us at [714-671-2005 or send us an online contact form to schedule an appointment.
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