HIIT involves short bursts of intense exercise followed by periods of rest or low-intensity exercise. Photo / 123RF
Looking for a little help looking and feeling younger?
You’re not alone. Turning back the clock and ridding ourselves of our “ageing aches”, along with our “age-revealing” wrinkles has been a top priority in every generation.
New strategies to cheat ageing by rejuvenating the mind and the body include but are not limited to surgery, skin moisturisers, cosmetic treatments and hormone replacement therapies. All promising a restored youthful appearance.
The hormone most commonly associated with ageing is Human Growth Hormone or HGH. Also known as somatotropin, this hormone is a peptide hormone produced by the pituitary gland. It plays a crucial role in growth, body composition, cell repair, metabolism. muscle and bone strength, and overall tissue repair and regeneration.
In addition to its effects on body composition, HGH supports overall vitality and wellbeing. It enhances skin thickness and elasticity, which helps reduce the appearance of wrinkles, giving the skin a more youthful appearance. It also plays a crucial role in maintaining bone density, helping to prevent osteoporosis and related fractures that are often associated with ageing.
Healthy HGH levels are naturally high during childhood and adolescence supporting and stimulating the growth of bones and tissues and helping to maintain, build and repair healthy tissue in the brain and other organs.
Unfortunately, levels peak in puberty and then gradually decline with age. If not addressed, by middle age, HGH production can decrease significantly contributing to the many physical changes associated with ageing such as muscle loss, increased body fat, and decreased vitality. Lower levels contribute to fatigue, decreased physical performance, and a general feeling of reduced wellbeing.
While HGH offers benefits that align with aspects of youthful vitality, calling it a “fountain of youth” is an oversimplification. Although HGH therapy can offer some anti-ageing benefits, and when it comes to boosting HGH levels, it’s best to go natural.
Natural methods of boosting HGH are safer and can be very effective for maintaining health and vitality as one ages. While eating a healthy diet contributes to our health and wellbeing, it can’t get the job done alone.
When it comes to boosting HGH levels naturally, exercise has proven to be one of the most effective ways to boost its production. However, when it comes to boosting HGH levels via exercise, not all exercise is created equal. Different types of exercise impact HGH levels in various ways.
How exercise helps with HGH levels:
High-intensity interval training (HIIT): HIIT involves short bursts of intense exercise followed by periods of rest or low-intensity exercise. This type of training is particularly effective in increasing HGH secretion.
Strength training: Lifting weights and resistance training stimulate HGH production, especially when large muscle groups are engaged.
Endurance training: Moderate to intense aerobic exercises, such as running, swimming or cycling can also enhance HGH levels, though the increase may be less pronounced compared to HIIT or strength training.
Exercise duration and intensity: The duration and intensity of exercise play a significant role in HGH release. More intense and longer workouts typically lead to higher HGH secretion.
And let’s not forget about a healthy recovery.
Adequate recovery: Exercise-induced HGH release is also influenced by adequate rest and recovery. Quality sleep and proper nutrition are essential for maximising HGH benefits.
What benefits will I get from exercise-induced HGH?
Improved muscle mass and strength: Increased HGH helps build and maintain muscle mass and strength, enhancing athletic performance and overall physical health.
Skin elasticity and thickness: HGH helps maintain skin thickness and elasticity. As HGH levels drop, skin becomes thinner and less elastic, contributing to wrinkles and sagging.
Enhanced fat metabolism: HGH promotes the utilisation of fat for energy, aiding in weight loss and improving body composition.
Faster recovery: HGH supports tissue repair and recovery, reducing the time needed to heal from injuries and intense workouts.
Better bone health: Higher HGH levels contribute to stronger bones, reducing the risk of fractures and osteoporosis.
Enhanced overall health: Regular exercise and the consequent boost in HGH levels improve cardiovascular health, immune function, and general wellbeing.
HGH is a key hormone associated with ageing, influencing various aspects of physical health and appearance. It is essential for growth, metabolism and overall health. While its natural decline is a normal part of ageing, certain interventions can help maintain healthier levels and mitigate some of the effects of ageing.
In summary, exercise is a potent natural stimulus for increasing HGH levels, offering numerous benefits for physical performance and wellbeing.
Understanding the role of HGH and adopting a healthy lifestyle can contribute to improved longevity and quality of life.