Hormones play a prominent role in our health and overall body functions. From balancing the immune system to altering behavior, to moderating the metabolism, they influence multiple systems of the body. One crucial hormone produced in your body is the growth hormone, also known as somatotropin. The growth hormone is responsible for the growth of practically every part of the body. From the skin to the bones to the liver to other body tissues, the growth of your body throughout your life is largely attributed to this hormone. Your pituitary gland naturally produces the growth hormone, but it is possible to take synthetic forms of this hormone. People take human growth hormones for a variety of reasons whether to aid in muscle development and weight gain, as a way to treat specific diseases and growth hormone deficiencies or to combat the effects aging has on the body. Though it is used for a variety of reasons, the question remains is it good for you to take, or can it have harmful effects on the body? In this article, we will answer that exact question.
The Potential Good of Growth Hormone
There are many positive side effects of taking human growth hormone. Firstly, it can be used to help treat specific disorders, such as chronic kidney disease, Turner’s syndrome, Prader-Willi syndrome, and short bowel syndrome. It also has the ability to boost metabolism. It does this through increasing the BMR, or basal metabolic rate, which is the amount of energy your body uses while at rest. Growth hormone also helps regulate the immune system by moderating antibodies and the white blood cell count. However, if you have a growth hormone deficiency, you do not necessarily have a low functioning immune system, but you may notice some slight abnormalities in the way it operates. It also allows for proper heart performance, improves tissue regeneration, fights against osteoporosis, and even helps fertility. It is also known best for building muscle mass. As you can see, the benefits are endless and you need a proper balance of growth hormone to have a body that functions smoothly.
The Potential Bad of Growth Hormone
As much potential as it is for growth hormone to do good, there are risks of taking it. First and foremost, there are side effects to taking synthetic growth hormone. It can lead to migraines, blurred vision, dizziness, sleep apnea, and even increased the risk of diabetes due to triggering insulin resistance. There is talk that human growth hormone may also increase your risk of getting cancer. It can cause your body to produce an excessive number of cells, which may aid the development of cancer. However, there is much research that needs to be done on this topic, and this correlation is not strictly proven.
So what is the verdict? Is growth hormone good or bad? The answer is that it depends on the person. Depending on your health situation, synthetic growth hormones can be beneficial. The improper use or overuse of growth hormone has potentially harmful side effects. Regardless of your decision, it is essential to consult a licensed doctor who is experienced with hormone growth therapy.
