What is HGH?
Human Growth hormone (HGH) is a form of protein produced by the pituitary gland and secreted into the bloodstream. HGH is produced in the hypothalamus and is also manufactured synthetically and available as medication. There are many claimed options to raise HGH levels which include injections, pills, tablets, creams, and sprays. There are also HGH supplements that do not contain HGH itself but merely stimulate its production.
HGH Blood Testing
HGH plays numerous functions in the human body. It is essential for optimal tissue functioning in children and adults. HGH stimulates the growth of bone and cartilage, aids protein production, promotes fat metabolism, and regulates blood sugar levels. Just as the name implies, HGH is important for proper growth and development. Children who have stunted growth and short stature can be diagnosed with HGH deficiency. It can be prescribed and administered by injection. HGH deficiency also occurs in adults, although it is uncommon. HGH deficiency among adults is often linked to problems with the pituitary gland or the hypothalamus, or both. Many adults are now using HGH to strengthen their bones and improve energy levels, and cardiovascular health.
Criticism of HGH use
There are a number of risks associated with using HGH. The side effects include retention of fluid, increased liability to diabetes, joint pain, carpal tunnel syndrome, enlargement of male breasts, hypertension, and more.
Legality of HGH
HGH is legal if used after the approval of a medical professional. The use of HGH is regulated by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA). It is therefore only allowed if prescribed by a doctor for an FDA-approved condition.
The legality of HGH was discussed in Section 21 of the Crime Control Act of 1990 which states that:
(1) Except as provided in paragraph (2), whoever knowingly distributes, or possesses with intent to distribute human growth hormone for any use in humans other than the treatment of a disease or other recognized medical condition, where such use has been authorized by the Secretary of Health and Human Services under section 355 of this title and pursuant to the order of a physician, is guilty of an offense punishable by not more than 5 years in prison, such fines as are authorized by title 18, or both.
(2) Whoever commits any offense set forth in paragraph (1) and such offense involves an individual under 18 years of age is punishable by not more than 10 years imprisonment, such fines as are authorized by title 18, or both.
(3) Any conviction for a violation of paragraphs (1) and (2) of this subsection shall be considered a felony violation of the Controlled Substances Act [21 U.S.C. 801 et seq.] for the purposes of forfeiture under section 413 of such Act [21 U.S.C. 853].
(4) As used in this subsection the term “human growth hormone” means somatrem, somatropin, or an analog of either of them.
(5) The Drug Enforcement Administration is authorized to investigate offenses punishable by this subsection.
HGH is usually prescribed only to people who have been medically proven to have a growth hormone deficiency.
HGH AND SPORTS
The rules guiding the use of HGH supplements vary between regular individuals and athletes. While non-athletes can use HGH supplements legally, athletes, especially National Football League and Major League Baseball players could get in trouble for doing so. If a professional athlete takes an oral supplement, it may be considered unethical.
Regulators of the NFL and MLB have been clamping down on the use of performance enhancers, and they consider HGH supplements like Genf20 Plus that are capable of raising HGH levels above the norm as one of the substances in this class.
Although Human Growth Hormones are naturally produced by the body, the use of boosters is not allowed. This regulation is made to prevent athletes from performing beyond their natural abilities. Performance enhancers are notorious for making athletes outperform other athletes. HGH reportedly helps injury recovery, reduces body fat, and increases lean muscle amongst other health benefits. Some athletes have reportedly combined Human Growth Hormones with testosterone and steroids for extraordinary performances.
Aside from the unfair advantage that HGH supplements can give athletes, concern has arisen over the health implications of using them. Debates exist on whether the advantages of HGH outweigh the side effects.
Regulatory bodies try to test for HGH use, and urine tests are ineffective in doing so. Thus a blood test is used to measure the amount of HGH in the blood to see if the levels are within the norm. Random testing is used, as players from a team are made to submit blood at any time. The test reportedly has a failure rate of about 20%.
The player bodies of the NFL, MLS, NHL, and MLB might be dissatisfied with the prohibition of HGH supplements like Genf20 Plus and Sytropin, but the prohibition remains a standing rule among athletic federations.
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