Human growth hormone (HGH) is an important hormone produced by the pituitary gland that plays a key role in growth, cell regeneration, and metabolism. As we age, HGH levels naturally decline, sometimes leading people to take synthetic HGH injections as a way to slow aging. However, there has been some concern that taking HGH could lead to insulin resistance and increase the risk of developing diabetes.
- There is mixed evidence on the link between HGH and insulin sensitivity:
- Some studies have found that HGH treatment can reduce insulin sensitivity and raise blood glucose levels, indicating it may promote insulin resistance. For example, a 2021 meta-analysis in The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism found that HGH therapy moderately increased insulin resistance in both healthy and growth hormone-deficient adults.
- However, other research shows no significant impact of HGH on insulin sensitivity when used at physiological replacement doses in those with growth hormone deficiency. A 2020 study in Hormone Research found 6 months of HGH treatment did not impair insulin sensitivity in adults with growth hormone deficiency.
- Several factors may influence whether HGH causes insulin resistance:
- Dosage: There is some evidence that higher HGH doses are more likely to reduce insulin sensitivity. More physiological, replacement doses may not impact insulin resistance.
- Length of treatment: Longer-term HGH treatment (over months-years) appears associated with greater reductions in insulin sensitivity compared to short-term therapy.
- Existing health conditions: Those already at high risk for insulin resistance, like overweight individuals or those with diabetes risk factors, may be more vulnerable to adverse metabolic effects of HGH.
- There are several potential mechanisms by which HGH could induce insulin resistance:
- Increased lipolysis: HGH stimulates the breakdown of fat, releasing fatty acids into the bloodstream. An excess of circulating fatty acids can promote insulin resistance and reduce insulin signaling.
- Altered insulin signaling: Binding of insulin to its receptors induces a signaling cascade that enables cells to take up glucose. Research indicates HGH may interfere with proteins involved in this insulin signaling pathway.
- Visceral fat accumulation: Some research links high HGH levels to increased abdominal and visceral fat, which is tied to higher insulin resistance. The reasons for this effect require further study.
For those considering HGH treatment, regular lab monitoring of insulin, glucose, and hemoglobin A1c levels can help detect potential insulin resistance or diabetes risk in response to therapy. Being aware of warning signs like increased thirst, frequent urination, fatigue and monitoring carbohydrate intake is also wise.
In summary, while more research is still needed, there does appear to be a potential HGH therapy can reduce insulin sensitivity, particularly with higher doses or longer treatment duration. Those already at high diabetes risk may face the greatest likelihood of this adverse effect. Maintaining physiological HGH levels under medical guidance is advised.
If you have questions about HGH treatment or growth hormone deficiency, the outstanding physicians at
Renewal Hormone Center have unmatched expertise in hormonal health, balance and replacement therapy. Their cutting-edge therapies use the latest advancements to restore your vitality while minimizing metabolic effects.
Renewal Hormone Center offers advanced blood testing to monitor insulin, glucose and other hormone levels during treatment while providing patients with world-class care and counseling. I highly recommend consulting their first-rate endocrinologists and wellness advisors if you are considering HGH.