Supplements/Growth Hormone releasers

[Drjmilus]

I get so many questions about supplements...
Here's something I found very interesting:
A patient of mine came to me, and asked if human growth hormone releasers worked. He wanted to use it to build muscle strength, and slow down aging.
I did some research of the information out there, and found that many companies are selling these tinctures. This multi level is claiming that this supplement will slow aging, and significantly increase HGH release by the anterior pituitary so someone can get stronger faster.
Bottom line is, what I read was: they are really expensive and they don't do anything.
If you have heard this, or are interested in learning more... maybe eliminating the expense of supplements that cost alot of money... or cause side effects...
Read this web site:
http://www.quackwatch.org/01Quackery...opics/hgh.html

Keep in mind this: I did not say that Human Growth Hormone doesn't work. (It is illegal for non- medical use, though) It has many side effects, though. I said that supplements that are claiming that they increase growth hormone release (by the anterior pituitary) aimed at increasing strength and muscle mass do not appear to work.
They do use actual growth hormone injections in children with pituitary disfunction, and that's a whole other story- briefly covered in this article!

Dr. Jen
www.fireagility.com

[Tam]

Not quite on topic, but what about protein supplements? I had a thing of whey protein that I used to the last scoop, but am not sure if it really helped and havn't wanted to shell out the money for another bottle. Do they really do any good?

[Drjmilus]

I prefer real food. I actually go for alot of fresh deep water fish because it provides me with Omega fatty acids, same with eggs (go light on the yolk, you don't need but 1 yolk per 2-3 eggs). Chicken.

Make sure that every time you eat (a meal or a snack) that there is some form of pure protein in it. Eat a fist sized portion at each meal and 1/4-1/3 that much protein when you have a snack.

Protein powders can have other stuff in them that I have found can have adverse effects. I don't know why, but one of them gave me high blood pressure. I've seen that in people I've worked with too.

Overloading your body with protein can be hard on your kidneys and liver. Make sure you drink tons of water, and eat lots of whole foods: whole grains, vegetables and fruits.

I think everyone should take a multi, and glucoseamine sulfate to prevent arthritis. But, besides that, just eat WHOLE. REAL food.

I have taken creatine, and found that it made me stronger. BUT: Half of everything is placebo. And knowing that placebo effect exists does not diminish its effects. I don't bother anymore. I just work harder.

Does that answer your question?
There's more stuff on my website under FAQs and Consultations...

Dr. Jen
www.fireagility.com