Growth Hormone for Height and Muscle Mass: Diet to Increase HGH Naturally

Clinical Studies and Research have identified Human Growth Hormone, a hormone secreted by the pituitary gland plays in crucial in gaining muscle mass and height.

This hormone referred to as the master hormone has been in news for its unique abilities to treat chronic fatigue, fighting aging, increasing vitality, reducing fat and increasing muscle mass, increasing height, improve memory, treat depression and normalize blood pressure.

However, the use of synthetic HGH is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration in lieu of the potential side effects associated however there are certain dietary and food prescriptions that can enhance the natural production of HGH in the body.

The Growth Hormone secreted from the pituitary gland which in turn stimulates the production of Insulin like Growth Factor (IGF-1) in the liver. This IGF-1 is responsible for most of the actions associated with HGH.

IGF-1 activates a muscular enzyme- calcineurin, by increasing the concentration of calcium ion in the muscles. This in turn stimulates GATA-2 which increases the contractile protein in the muscle mass, a factor responsible for muscular hypertrophy or enlargement. Interestingly studies have shown that HGH actually hastens fat metabolism while concurrently aiding in increase in the muscle mass and hence has been become increasingly famous among body builders and atheletes.

IGF-1 also promotes the replication and growth of cells located in the epiphysis of long bones, which increases the size and length of these bones. These epiphysis plates of long bones comprise of cartilaginous tissue which transforms into solid bone after puberty. Hence action of HGH aids in increase in height prior to puberty. These actions of IGF-1 in promoting muscle mass and increasing height have resulted in the hormone being named as the master hormone.

Studies have pointed out the some amino acids play a crucial role in stimulating the pituitary gland to enhance the production of HGH which in turn aids in improving height and increasing the muscle mass. These amino acids include L-Arginine, L-Lysine, L-Glutamine and L-Ornithine. Certain foods rich in essential amino acids and proteins which can naturally boost the levels of HGH include,

• Milk: Milk is loaded with proteins and also supplies a wide range of other nutrients and vitamins including Vitamin B complex (primarily Vitamin B12), amino acids and proteins. Being easily digestible milk allows maximum absorption of proteins, except for individuals suffering with lactose intolerance
• Egg: The white of the egg contains 100% protein while the yolk contains fat. Consuming 3-6 boiled eggs daily can help in enhancing HGH production in the body and also aid in increasing height and muscle mass
• Chicken: Chicken is very high in protein content and also loaded with B complex vitamins. In addition chicken also supplies certain trace minerals that are essential for growth and development. Consuming 100 grams of chicken each day can boost HGH production
• Soy: One of the important source of proteins for vegetarians, this food helps improve bone mass and muscle mass in the body, by stimulating the production of HGH

While the above mentioned foods may be beneficial in stimulating the production of HGH, there are other precautionary measures and dietary consideration that need to be taken care of,

• Avoid foods that are high in glycemic content like pastas and potatoes or refined sugars. These foods result in rapid rise in blood sugar levels which in turn stimulate production of insulin. Elevated levels of insulin tend to stimulate the production of somatostatin, a hormone that suppresses the production of insulin and HGH.
• Include foods that low in glycemic index and high in fiber content. These foods include legumes, nuts, whole grains and beans.
• Limit intake of fat, especially saturated fat. Instead increase the consumption of olive oil which is also beneficial for the heart
• Occasional fasting can stimulate the production of HGH, however fasting is not recommended in individuals suffering from diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular disease.