Human growth hormone (HGH), commonly known as just growth hormone, is produced by the pituitary gland and is one of the most important hormones produced by the human body. It plays a key role in the growth, the composition of the body, cell repair, and metabolism. HGH boosts muscle growth, strength and exercise performance. However, low HGH levels lead to a decrease in the quality of life, while an increase in the susceptibility of obesity and hence other forthcoming diseases. Maintaining optimal levels of HGH is important during weight loss regimes, injury recovery, and athletic training.
Here are 4 scientifically-backed ways to increase the human growth hormone levels in your body:
Reduce Body Fat
The amount of belly fat you carry is inversely proportional to your HGH production. Studies have shown that higher belly fat usually means impaired production of HGH in the human body, along with increased susceptibility to disease. According to a recent study done on people with obesity, after losing a significant amount of weight their HGH levels returned to normal. Belly fat is the most harmful type of stored fat in the human body and is linked to various diseases. Losing belly fat will help regulate your HGH levels along with other aspects of your health.
Lower Sugar Intake
Studies have proven that increase insulin is associated with low levels of HGH. Since refined carbs and sugar raises your insulin levels the most, it is worthwhile to reduce your intake to help optimize HGH levels. Excess sugar is also a key factor in weight gain and obesity, which further affect HGH levels.
Do Strenuous Exercise
High-intensity exercise is a sure shot way to significantly increase your HGH levels. While high-intensity exercise helps the most, all forms of exercise are beneficial to some degree. However, exercise, for the most part, results only in short term spikes in the HGH levels.
Take Beta-Alanine Supplements
Similar to exercise, taking supplements can also temporarily boost your HGH levels. However, according to a study, taking beta-alanine in conjunction with working out increases HGH levels even further. It is recommended to take beta-alanine supplements before you work out to experience doubled peak power and boosted HGH levels in comparison to people working out without supplementation.