HGH or Human Growth Hormone is a single-chain polypeptide hormone, 191 amino acids long, and its full structure was confirmed in 1952 by Frederick Sanger. The hormone stimulates growth and cell reproduction, and regeneration in humans.
It is produced by Somatotropes cells in the anterior pituitary gland and circulates through the bloodstream where it goes to target tissues.
The hormone levels peak during adolescence, causing growth spurts. They are lowest in old age and have many functions. Still, they are arguably best known for aiding muscle growth and regeneration after injury because of their ability to stimulate the production of IGF-1. Source: endocrine.org/hormones
What Is Growth Hormone, And What Role Does It Have In Our Bodies?
Growth hormone is a peptide that stimulates the growth of cells and tissues, cell reproduction and regeneration. It acts directly on the liver and other tissues to stimulate the production of another hormone, insulin-like growth factor 1 (IGF-1) and stimulates the production of another GH binding protein. HGH for women and men have almost the same impact, benefits and negative effects. Treatment for both genders requires official prescription.
Growth hormones are produced in the anterior pituitary gland, which regulates growth during childhood and adolescence, regulates the body’s metabolism, and maintains muscle mass in adults.
How Is Growth Hormone Connected To Brain Functions?
Growth Hormone is produced in the hypothalamus and stimulates cells that release a hormone that shuttles information to the pituitary gland, where it’s released into the bloodstream as growth hormone. Growth hormones are responsible for several functions, including carbohydrate metabolism, stimulating cell reproduction and regeneration, and brain function, including memory formation and mood regulation.
How Do Declining HGH Levels Affect Our Emotions?
Low Growth Hormone levels can cause moodiness, irritability and depression. It is believed that this may arise because it enhances neurogenesis (the process by which neurons are formed) in adults, stimulates blood flow in the brain and reduces brain inflammation helping with concentration and focus.
So it’s no surprise that exercising has been shown to increase the hormone levels within the body. If you want more of a natural high without having to hit the gym, try eating these foods:
- Eggs- eggs are rich in amino acids that help with cell regeneration. They also increase brain function, which assists with mood and focus.
- Pumpkin Seeds- Pumpkin seeds have been shown to improve memory and concentration due to the high zinc content.
- Pumpkin Seeds- Pumpkin seeds have been shown to improve memory and concentration due to the high zinc content.
- Peanuts- Peanuts can help reduce bad cholesterol levels within the body, therefore improving heart health and lowering the risk of heart attack or stroke. Another bonus is that peanuts are good sources of Niacin (also known as vitamin B3), which reduces cardiovascular risks and improves brain function and memory.
- Oysters- Oysters are rich in zinc which is a microelement necessary for brain development. They also contain dopamine, magnesium and omega-three fatty acids, which contribute to the production of GH within your body.
You can eat these food items alone or include them in your diet regularly; either way, you will notice an improvement in your mood because they all naturally stimulate the release of human growth hormone into the body, therefore having a positive effect on mood and concentration levels.
Tips To Improve Mood And Memory Naturally
- Aerobic activity-Any exercise that causes sweat to form and increases heart rate has improved mood, memory and learning. It works by increasing cells in the brain called neurons, which provide more capacity to retain information, allowing for better concentration and focus. You don’t have to hit the gym every day either; brisk walking or gardening will be more than enough to get that aerobic exercise you need!
- Stress Reduction-Keeping stress levels low has been shown to improve mood as well as prevent depression. Try meditation or yoga to help with relaxation! Social Interaction- It has been shown that social interaction is integral for human health, leading to increased oxytocin levels, which directly affects mood. Therapy sessions are also known to have positive effects on people struggling with mental illness.
- Diet-Eating a balanced diet full of healthy fats, lean protein sources, whole grains and fruits and vegetables can assist with your memory capabilities. It also helps the body function properly by providing nutrients that contribute to cell growth within the brain, improving neuron production necessary for memory formation.
- Napping-A short nap improves memory consolidation, allowing for clearer recollection of events. Afternoon naps are considered best since they offer more rest than early morning naps while still allowing time to be refreshed before evening activities commence. So grab yourself a pillow and catch some ZZZ’s if sleep is what you need most!
- Exposure to sunlight-Vitamin D is essential for optimal health and physical performance. Exposure to ultraviolet B rays from the sun triggers the body’s synthesis of vitamin D. This, in turn, allows for proper nutrient absorption, which is essential for the growth and development of bones, teeth and muscles. Getting enough exposure to sunlight also helps the body regulate serotonin production, which has been linked to good mood, reduced risk of depression, and better memory retention. Source: https://www.health.harvard.edu/vitamin d-and-other-factors-that-may -affect-memory
- Meditation-Practicing meditation can be helpful when you are trying to beat stress or manage anxiety; it does this by increasing HRV ( Heart Rate Variability ). Meditation has also been shown to improve memory recall and creativity levels, so go ahead and give it a try! Source: https://www.healthline.com/Me-dia/Yoga-for-Depression#Introduction1.
In Summary
HGH levels are directly linked to mood and memory capabilities. Therefore we must keep these levels healthy by eating a well-balanced diet, exercising regularly and taking some time for ourselves, whether that means practicing meditation or just taking a long walk.
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