A new article in the New England Journal of Medicine casts doubt on the effects of human growth hormone (HGH) on skin and overall health.
Scratch any Hollywood beauty and you’re likely to discover a recipient of the much-touted HGH injections for youth and vitality. Twenty years ago a study showed that HGH injections, usually indicated in the treatment of children with impaired growth, decreased body fat and increased lean muscle mass. Almost overnight, HGH became the go-to drug for perfectly healthy people in search of the fountain of youth. In later years the research was discredited by the same team which produced it, but the anti-aging industry took little notice.
The latest study shows that inhibiting the body’s production of growth hormone — rather than increasing it — actually extends life. A drug blocking the hormone was given to mice that were prone to develop Alzheimer’s disease. Now with lower HGH levels, the mice showed improved cognition skills and increased longevity. They were also less likely to develop tumors, and showed signs of more robust DNA. The scientists’ conclusion? No one should take growth hormones.
There is some indication that the hormone improves skin tone, but only because it causes water retention. Will this latest research dissuade the growing legions of HGH fans? That’s up to you. The alternatives for youthful wellbeing aren’t that complicated. Eat well, exercise and protect skin from the damaging effects of sunshine and free radicals. That, we can help with. I’m all about prevention so grab one of our top selling Anthelios sunscreens, add in a gentle cleanser, some antioxidants and targeted treatments including Green Cream retinol cream as needed. Skin will glow, without the potential health risks associated with HGH.
This isn’t necessarily the end of the road for Human Growth Hormones. A study is underway exploring its use in treating cancer.
