IGF-1 acts much like a foreman on a construction site, overseeing the growth and repair of your bones, muscles, and tissues. This hormone, closely related to insulin, plays a pivotal role in childhood growth and continues to have anabolic effects in adults���meaning it helps build and maintain muscle and bone tissue. Produced in the liver and triggered by growth hormone (GH) from the pituitary gland, IGF-1 not only supports physical stature but also influences how your body metabolises sugar, playing a key role in overall metabolic health.
Testing for IGF-1 is important if you're assessing hormone health in adults, where abnormal levels might indicate pituitary disorders. It's also used to monitor the effectiveness of growth hormone therapy. For adults, knowing your IGF-1 levels can help gauge overall health, as low levels are often associated with aging and decreased muscle strength, while high levels can indicate potential endocrine problems.
Factors that influence IGF-1 include age, nutrition, liver health, hormonal status, and overall physical health. Growth hormone levels fluctuate with stress, sleep quality, and exercise, all of which can impact IGF-1. Certain genetic conditions and diseases like liver cirrhosis or diabetes can also alter IGF-1 levels.
Balancing IGF-1 involves a holistic approach to hormone health. For high levels, reducing factors that spur excessive growth hormone, such as certain medications or tumors, is crucial. For low levels, enhancing diet quality, ensuring adequate protein intake, and engaging in regular resistance and strength training can help naturally boost growth hormone and IGF-1. Regular monitoring and consultation with a healthcare provider are essential to maintain optimal levels.
Balancing IGF-1 involves a holistic approach to hormone health. For high levels, reducing factors that spur excessive growth hormone, such as certain medications or tumors, is crucial. For low levels, enhancing diet quality, ensuring adequate protein intake, and engaging in regular resistance and strength training can help naturally boost growth hormone and IGF-1. Regular monitoring and consultation with a healthcare provider are essential to maintain optimal levels.
Our baseline performance test designed for those who want to assess their health in relation to their training.
A thorough health check that provides a detailed assessment, specifically tailored to men's health. Includes PSA test.
