Bangkok: "Growth hormone" is a term we often hear, whether in child development or in the beauty and anti-aging industries. But what exactly is this hormone, how important is it to the body, and what are the facts about its use for increasing height or slowing aging? This article will delve into information from experts at the Thai Society of Pediatric and Adolescent Endocrinology and pediatric endocrinology, Faculty of Medicine, Chulalongkorn University.
According to Thai News Agency, growth hormone, also known simply as "growth hormone," is produced and secreted by the pituitary gland located in the center of the head. The release of this hormone is not constant throughout the day but occurs in waves, with peak levels during deep sleep. Growth hormone is essential for humans at different ages, with large amounts produced during childhood when growth is crucial. This production naturally decreases with age, particularly after 60.
The role of growth hormone extends beyond height or physical growth; it is crucial for various bodily systems. It aids physical development by helping develop bone and muscle mass, manages metabolism by controlling blood sugar levels, and influences blood lipid levels. Children with growth hormone deficiency often tend to be shorter and may be overweight.
Medically administered growth hormone is necessary for certain groups under close medical supervision. These include individuals with pituitary gland dysfunction due to genetic disorders, injury, or tumors, and children with abnormal growth patterns. Parents are advised to consult a doctor if their child's growth deviates significantly from standard ranges.
Currently, growth hormone is only available in injectable form, necessitating daily or almost daily injections. Advertisements claiming the efficacy of pills or monthly injections are misleading. Injections are typically administered before bedtime to mimic natural hormone release patterns. Previously extracted from corpses, growth hormone is now synthesized entirely in laboratories.
Despite common queries, growth hormone is not suitable for anti-aging or height increase in normal children. There is no medical indication for its use in beauty or anti-aging, and misuse poses health risks. In normal children, doctors do not recommend injections solely for height increase due to associated long-term health risks.
For most people without a hormone deficiency, natural ways to stimulate growth hormone include regular exercise, good nutrition, and sufficient sleep. These methods help maintain hormonal balance without the risks associated with medical intervention.
In summary, while growth hormone is important, its use should be restricted to hormone deficiency cases under specialist evaluation. Misguided use for beauty or height increase can be harmful. Prioritizing a balanced diet, exercise, and adequate sleep is the best approach to maintain hormonal health.