The Anti-Aging Link to Low HGH

Human Growth Hormone is a very important factor in the aging process and modern research on how it works has led to the introduction of a variety of new products in the natural-health industry. HGH is produced by the pituitary gland, and its release is controlled by the hypothalamus. Healthy levels of this hormone are associated with increased vitality, weight loss, increased muscle tone, and all stages of growth. HGH is almost always much higher in children and young adults than it is in mature or elderly adults, and a lot of the symptoms of the aging process are directly proportional to declining HGH levels. And since nobody really likes getting older, the idea that we can somehow increase HGH production is very appealing to a lot of people.

There are quite a few products on the market these days that claim to increase HGH levels, and there is definitely research that directly links specific nutrients to HGH production. Lately there has been much talk about certain amino acids that will increase HGH, namely glycine, ornithine, arginine and lysine. Also, certain other nutrients such as vitamin C, niacin and GABA have been shown to increase levels. There are also some lifestyle factors that play a big role in HGH production. Sleep is one of the most important factors, not just the duration but also the quality of the sleep. Some people sleep for 8 hours but don’t wake up rested, because they are not getting deep restful sleep. Regular exercise of at least moderate intensity is also a major factor in helping the body produce more HGH.

Deer Antler: The Safe, Natural Alternative to HGH

Most products focus on stimulating the body to produce more HGH, which is mostly carried out by the pituitary gland. While this may sound like the most obvious solution, some would argue that it’s not a good idea to stimulate the pituitary excessively. This is where something like velvet deer antler enters the picture. After the HGH is released by the pituitary gland it is sent to the liver, where it is then converted to IGF-1. This is the active compound that actually accomplishes all the things HGH is given credit for. Velvet deer antler is a natural source of IGF-1 and quite a few other growth factors. Since the growth factors are already present, there is no need to stimulate the pituitary or hypothalamus to get the benefits from deer antler. In fact, there is some evidence that the body will lower HGH production in the presence of sufficient IGF-1 levels.

Healthy for People, Safe for the Animals

While it may seem like a strange idea to consume something like deer antler, it might put things in perspective to mention that people have been doing it for literally thousands of years! The Chinese especially have always valued deer antler for its therapeutic properties, and along with ginseng and reishi can be considered one of the major tonic herbs of Traditional Chinese Medicine. Although the whole antler can be used, the best quality products use only the tips, since the highest concentration of active constituents occurs in that part of the antler. Since chemistry hadn’t really been discovered in ancient times, the Chinese had no idea about HGH or growth factors. Nevertheless, they classified it as a yang and jing tonic, and discovered early on that it had wonderful anti-aging properties.

It’s also worth mentioning that deer are not killed for their antlers, and once they are removed they begin to grow back. The process of removing the antlers is relatively painless and the animals are treated humanely. The ability of the deer antler to regenerate is possibly the reason the Ancient Chinese first were attracted to it.  These compounds, known as ectosaponins are some of the most studied compounds from the antler, and they are being researched for helping regenerate damaged nerve tissue.

Various deer antler products are used by body builders and other athletes, as well as many people above the age of 30. It is a strong sexual tonic, and immune modulator. That means it will boost the immune system when it is low, and calm it down when it is overactive.  This two-way effect on the immune system is unique to certain herbs, and as of yet there are no drugs that have shown these effects. Good quality deer antler is a great addition to anyone’s supplement regimen, and taken daily can help ward off some of the issues we are all susceptible to as we age. If you have questions about deer antler or any other supplements, feel free to contact us at 404-266-9115, or stop by our store in Atlanta.