HGH, or Human Growth Hormone, was developed to be used as a medicine for children who were very small for their age. Research showed increased height of between 1.5 to 3 inches in studies conducted on abnormally small children. This led to FDA approval for the use of the hormone for children. The increases in height and muscle development interested athletes and those wanting to reverse results of the aging process. Now that HGH is available in many forms, not just the costly injections originally offered, questions about its use for the general public’s benefit are popular in longevity and sports forums.

HGH is a hormone produced in the pituitary gland, controlling growth, height, weight, and muscle development. It is at peak activity during puberty, accounting for the typical growth spurts seen in teenagers. Cell reproduction and regeneration are sped up by the use of this hormone as a supplement, making it of possible use to patients recovering from surgery, burns or premature aging.

While few conclusive test results are available for use of HGH amongst the general population, tests in 1990 by Rudman conducted on older male subjects did confirm the benefits reported by enthusiastic users include a reduction of body fat, an increase in energy, sexual strength, rejuvenation of skin and hair, and increased resistance to disease.

For older folks, the benefits seem to be very positive, as one octogenarian commented “I want to have 5 more good years, looking and feeling my best, than 20 years where I shuffle along” There seems to be a balance between quality and quantity of life involved when taking HGH as a supplement. The risks and benefits can be best assessed by your doctor, who knows your existing health condition, and can fine-tune dosages to get the best from this advance in anti-aging medicines.