Growth Hormone (IGF-1)

Growth Hormone (GH) Growth hormone (GH) is a naturally occurring hormone in the human body, which is secreted by the pituitary gland. GH is a very small protein substance that is chemically similar to insulin. It is secreted in short pulses during the first few hours of sleep and after exercise. GH promotes the growth of cells, bones, collagen, muscles and organs throughout the body throughout life. The body is composed of more than 100 trillion cells that are continuously dying and regenerating. The brain and the nervous system retain their original cells; however, in the brain new proteins are continuously being produced to store memories of every new experience. Overall intelligence and the ability to learn and memorize all depend on adequate growth hormone.  Our bodies naturally produce GH in abundance when we are young, but its production gradually slows over time. Production of GH peaks during adolescence and falls after the age of 21 by about 14% per decade. By age 60 GH produc