GABA and HGH: any connection?

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Gamma-aminobutyric acid, abbreviated GABA, is an essential neurotransmitter for brain metabolism and regulation of muscle tone. Very little research has shown a connection between GABA and HGH, or human growth hormone, but the research that has been done has shown that GABA can stimulate the release of HGH. Although these studies show a slight elevation in human growth hormone when GABA is injected or taken orally, most researchers conclude that the effects are minimal. More research is needed to reach a more definitive conclusion. Many bodybuilders and those looking to increase human growth hormone levels accept the positive research linking GABA and HGH, and take GABA in the form of an oral dietary supplement or as an injection.

Human growth hormone, often abbreviated HGH, is an essential hormone released by the pituitary gland in the brain to aid in bone and muscle growth. This hormone is generally released during puberty and times of rapid body growth, as well as in response to exercise and slow-wave sleep. Some research has shown that GABA, a neurotransmitter that is essential for proper brain metabolism and synaptic function, can be taken orally or injectable to help release this hormone, thus stimulating its beneficial effects. Although this research circulates through the bodybuilding and anti-aging communities, it is inconclusive and weak in terms of providing a solid basis for advice.

Since GABA naturally has a stimulating effect on the pituitary gland, the main gland that secretes human growth hormone, it is assumed that GABA and HGH are linked. Although this is true to some degree, sublingual or injectable GABA can be used in a very different way than natural GABA and may not have the same effects, if any, on the pituitary gland. One study has shown that, depending on the physiology of the individual, injectable GABA can have inhibitory or stimulatory effects on growth hormone secretion, making it debatable as a suitable supplement to increase HGH levels. Another study has shown that oral supplementation can increase both GABA and HGH, although duplicate studies are rare and do not provide conclusive or even consistent results.

Since studies link GABA and HGH to a natural effect on the pituitary gland, it is often recommended that an individual not rely on supplementing with GABA to allow the neurotransmitter to produce itself. Instead, an individual may choose a supplement that contains other amino acids such as arginine or ornithine, which have been shown to be more reliable supplements to aid in growth hormone release. Additionally, getting enough exercise and sound sleep can help increase human growth hormone in many people. Avoiding sugar and refined carbohydrates can also ensure that HGH can secrete properly.

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