Human growth hormone (HGH) is a peptide hormone secreted by the pituitary gland that plays a role in growth and development. As we age, our HGH levels naturally decline, which has led some to theorize that supplementing with HGH could help maintain youth and vitality.
When it comes to brain function, research on whether HGH offers benefits is more limited. However, there are a few key points to consider:
- HGH helps stimulate the production of insulin-like growth factor-1 (IGF-1), which is involved in brain development and function. Animal studies have shown IGF-1 to promote neuron growth and survival. Thus, maintaining sufficient IGF-1 levels through HGH could theoretically support brain health.
- HGH levels positively correlate with cognitive performance in adolescents. One study on teens found that those with higher HGH levels scored better on tests of memory, processing speed and mental flexibility compared to peers with lower HGH. More research is still needed though.
- Critically ill patients show improved mental function with HGH treatment. Several studies have shown cognitive benefits of HGH therapy for people with disorders like Prader-Willi syndrome. However, healthy adults may not gain the same advantages.
- Data on HGH effects in healthy adults are very limited. While a few small studies suggest possible cognitive benefits, most experts argue there is insufficient evidence to draw conclusions about brain effects of HGH supplements in normal aging.
So in summary:
- HGH may offer some secondary benefits by increasing IGF-1, which supports neuron health and development.
- Natural HGH levels can positively correlate with better cognition, especially in youth when the brain is still developing.
- Therapeutic HGH use demonstrates cognitive improvements in those with critical deficiencies like Prader-Willi syndrome.
- But for healthy adults, there is currently no definitive evidence that taking HGH supplements will directly improve memory, focus or other measures of brain function. More research is still needed in this population.