Human Growth Hormone Use in Weight Training and Bodybuilding

Paul Rogers
·4 min read
Michelangelo Gratton / Getty Images
Michelangelo Gratton / Getty Images

Medically reviewed by Tyra Tennyson Francis, MD

Human Growth Hormone (HGH) is a naturally occurring hormone that is essential to human growth and the development of bodily structures. Some people produce an abnormal amount of HGH and this can cause conditions such as gigantism and acromegaly caused by an overgrowth of certain tissues.

Children with gigantism can grow exceptionally tall, in rare cases over 7 and even 8 feet tall — but they are plagued with numerous musculoskeletal and medical problems.





HGH is used medically to stimulate growth in people who lack this hormone or, in some cases, to help those recovering from a serious illness.




Human Growth Hormone for Bodybuilding

Human growth hormone (HGH) is associated with increased fat loss and enhanced cosmetic muscle growth. Bodybuilders may inject human growth hormone to achieve a more muscular appearance. However, most of the increase in muscle mass is actually due to fluid retention, not actual muscle growth. There are also risks associated with the use of human growth hormone.

Because of a perceived advantage to muscle growth and strength, bodybuilders and athletes who are tempted to take performance-enhancing drugs and supplements like steroids have taken HGH in order to gain an athletic advantage, or for rapid, cosmetic muscle growth.

Because HGH taken orally can be broken down by digestion, HGH is injected when used as a supplement drug. HGH is also promoted as an agent for rejuvenation for aging people who want to look and perform younger.

Related: Why Anabolic Steroids Are Banned in Bodybuilding and Weightlifting

Side Effects

The following side-effects of injected HGH have been reported:

  • Muscle or joint pain

  • Suppression of pituitary/hypothalamus gland function

  • Swelling of body tissues (edema)

  • Carpal tunnel syndrome (wrist nerve pain)

  • Elevated blood glucose levels

What Does the Research Say?

There needs to be more studies on the effects of HGH on healthy adults who have normal levels. It does offer benefits if you have low levels, but you must get tested by a doctor to determine if you need it. Experts say it is rare to have a true deficit.

According to The National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA), HGH is only recommended for adults who have a deficiency or have AIDS/HIV and short bowel syndrome, along with kids who have conditions including Turner syndrome and Prader-Willi syndrome.

If taken in the appropriate doses when needed, experts say the side effects are minimal and it can be beneficial, but there are side effects and risks, including the risk of tumor or cancer growth. There are not enough studies done on the side effects of taking it when your levels are normal.

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HGH does change your body composition and promote improved lean body mass and fat loss. This works because HGH promotes enzymes called lipases that break fat down and provide preferential burning of fat. Although it may promote the growth of collagen tissues like tendon, ligament, and bone, HGH has little to offer because any muscle enlargement is due to fluid retention, studies found.

In addition, studies also found that even though you will have increased muscle mass, it doesn't translate into improved strength. They found that those who took HGH actually had decreased strength and physical fitness compared to those who didn't take it.

Alternatives and Natural Methods to Boost HGH Levels

The only way to minimize the risks of HGH is to truly be deficient and get a prescription from a doctor. Remember, HGH has to be injected to be effective. Taking it in pill form or a cream will not work effectively. For most people, boosting your HGH levels naturally is the healthiest and best way to do it. Here are some proven ways to make it happen:

  • Make sleep a priority: HGH is released when you sleep. Studies have round that not getting enough deep sleep can actually reduce the amount of HGH your body releases. Aim for at least 7 hours per night.

  • Reduce your sugar intake: Eating sugar and refined carbohydrates will increase your insulin levels, which affects how much HGH your body releases.

  • Do aerobic exercise: Research found that high intensity exercise boosted HGH levels. Try incorporating some HIIT workouts into your weekly routine.

  • Consider a GABA supplement: Research found that taking the amino acid supplement Gamma aminobutyric acid (GABA) boosted HGH levels by 400% after exercise and 200% at rest. It also may help promote restful sleep, which also boosts HGH. Talk to your doctor before starting a new supplement.

Related: Can Creatine Phosphate Build Muscle Mass and Strength?

Bottom Line

Unless it is prescribed by a doctor, those with normal levels of HGH should avoid taking it due to the risks of side effects, as well as the fact it doesn't increase physical fitness or strength. It is best to increase or maintain your HGH levels through natural methods.

In addition, it is important to note that synthetic HGH is banned in most countries under the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) protocols.

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