Lecture Notes: Human Growth Hormone (HGH) and TRT

Introduction

• Topic: Use of Human Growth Hormone (HGH) for health, longevity, and anti-aging, especially in conjunction with testosterone replacement therapy (TRT).
• Speaker: Gil T.

Understanding Human Growth Hormone (HGH)

• HGH is a naturally occurring hormone produced by the pituitary gland.
• Stimulated by GHRH (growth hormone-releasing hormone) from the hypothalamus.
• Peaks around puberty and declines with age.
• Responsible for growth of all body cells, including organs, bones, and connective tissues.

The Role of IGF-1

• IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor 1) is triggered by HGH and is anabolic.
• Acts on the insulin receptor among others, affecting glucose metabolism.
• Deficiency in IGF-1 can occur with aging or pituitary issues.

Use of Synthetic HGH

• Synthetic HGH (somatropin) is prescribed for children with deficiencies.
• Very expensive and often not covered well by insurance.
• Bodybuilders may use high doses, posing health risks such as insulin resistance and elevated blood glucose.

Risks of Exogenous HGH

• Suppresses natural HGH production.
• Can lead to type 2 diabetes or insulin resistance.
• High doses used by bodybuilders can cause elevated blood sugar and necessitate insulin use.

Alternative: HGH Secretagogues

• Safer alternative using growth hormone-releasing hormones and peptides.
• Stimulate the body to produce its own HGH without suppressing natural production.
• More affordable and have fewer risks than synthetic HGH.

Benefits of HGH Secretagogues

• Improved sleep quality and REM sleep.
• Enhancements in hair, skin, nails, and overall rejuvenation.
• Long-term anabolic effects when combined with TRT.

Dosing and Protocols

• Typical dosing is 5 days on, 2 days off.
• Common secretagogues include sermorelin and ipamorelin.
• Previously used CJC-1295 now harder to obtain due to regulatory changes.

Oral Secretagogues: MK-677

• MK-677 is a ghrelin agonist, not a SARM.
• Causes significant appetite increase and potential insulin resistance.
• Used short-term for those with poor appetite, gaining weight quickly.

Age and Efficacy of Secretagogues

• Effectiveness is individual, not strictly age-dependent.
• Even older adults can benefit if natural HGH production is adequate.

Advice for TRT Users

• TRT alone can raise IGF-1 levels; assess need for HGH carefully.
• Avoid stacking without checking IGF-1 levels first.

HGH in Bodybuilding

• IGF-1 can be used directly, although it's rare and hard to find.
• High risks and intense effects reported by users.

Conclusion and Recommendations

• Secretagogues offer a safer, more sustainable option for HGH benefits.
• Recommended for non-professional bodybuilders seeking health improvements.

Closing Remarks

• Encouraged to explore more on TRT and hormone optimization through additional videos.