Our growth hormone production changes as we age. In children, growth hormone production is greater than in adults. A shortage of growth hormone in children can lead to a slow growth around puberty; a child with low levels of HGH will not experience the growth spurt so common in adolescence. Testing for growth hormones will include
- tracking of current output
- stimulation of production and tracking the body’s response
A child under the age of 18, under stimulation for growth hormone production, should produce more than 5 nanograms of a protein that is created by the production of growth hormone. An adult, under the same stimulation, should produce 4 nanograms of the same protein. In both children and adults, a protein production level of less than 1 nanogram is an indicator that HGH production is low.
Optimum Conditions for Growth Hormone Production
If you notice a sudden loss of strength, a rapid weight gain around your middle or a sense of isolation and loneliness, you may have a condition that is impacting your pituitary gland. Poor HGH production could be an indication of a tumor or other disease of the endocrine system. For adults, ruling out any endocrinological illness is the first step to regulating growth hormone. It is natural for our HGH production to slow as we age. However, there are actions that you can take to maintain a higher than average production for your age group. The pituitary gland works while we sleep. The amount of time you allow your body to sleep and the quality of your rest can have a negative impact on your ultimate HGH production. Poor sleep hygiene may be contributing to your loss of energy and strength. Carefully review your sleeping area and remove
- distractions, such as screens
- anything that generates excess heat
- noise
If your sleeping partner is always cold and you are sweating, get a fan and your own lightweight blanket. Your core body temp has to drop to a particular level for you to fall into the deepest level of sleep. If you tend to shower or bathe before bed, avoid using excessively hot water.
Cool sleep is good for your body and your brain. Next, take a look at your stress level. Cortisol is the stress hormone and a whole lot of cortisol can ultimately incline you to belly fat. Belly fat can suppress your natural growth hormone production. Is all the stress in your life really yours, or are you taking on the stress of others to save them the burden? It may be time to hand that stress back over to lower the pressure on your spirit, brain and body. Now is also the time to take a look at your diet. If you’re not sleeping well, you may be running on caffeine and sugar.
The adage that caffeine will stunt your growth is not actually true, but taking in too much sugar over the course of the day can suppress your growth hormone production. Consider keeping a journal to help you be mindful of your intake of processed sugars and foods containing white flour. Make the base of each meal protein. This could be as simple as an egg for breakfast, turkey in a sandwich for dinner and a lean piece of meat as the center of your dinner. Foods high in arginine, such as turkey breast and chickpeas, can also support your goal of raising your HGH levels.
Exercise is also critical for anyone working to naturally raise their HGH production. If you’re already walking or jogging each day, try bumping up the pace for a block or two on your path. If you’re lifting weights, end your workout with some pulse-raising jumping jacks. For those who haven’t worked out in a while, use the timer on your phone and get out for a 10 minute walk, three times a day. Once you’ve gotten a full physical and had your HGH levels tested, you will know what is impacting them and have a good idea of what you need to do to rebuild your health. Luckily, quality sleep, a healthy diet and regular exercise will support more than your pituitary gland. Ready to get started? Call us today at 205-352-9141.
