Fasting and HGH
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Fasting has a significant impact on human growth hormone (HGH) levels. According to , fasting can increase HGH levels through various mechanisms. The hormone ghrelin, released when you are hungry, can bind to receptors in the brain that normally bind growth hormone-releasing hormone, thereby stimulating growth hormone production. This results in substantial increases in HGH, roughly a doubling of levels in the waking state for intermittent fasting 1. However, it's important to note that while fasting increases growth hormone, the receptors' sensitivity may not proportionately enhance, so the benefits might not be as significant in gene activation related to growth hormone 2.
It's also noted that avoiding caloric intake, especially carbohydrates, for at least two hours before sleep can enhance the natural pulse of growth hormone released during sleep. This practice is suggested as growth hormone is naturally secreted during the early night, promoting tissue repair and fat metabolism 2 3.
Furthermore, Dr. Kyle Gillette, featured on the , emphasizes that while fasting does increase HGH, it's not necessarily the most efficient method for those who already have normal hormone levels. Instead, managing food intake before sleep can yield better hormonal benefits 2.
Overall, fasting can be a practical tool for increasing HGH, but optimizing timing and incorporating additional lifestyle strategies, like proper meal timing, might enhance these effects 4.
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