Human growth hormone (HGH) is a peptide hormone that stimulates growth, cell reproduction and regeneration. It is made naturally by the pituitary gland. As we age, HGH levels decline. Some people use synthetic HGH supplements to try to slow aging or build muscle mass. However, HGH use is controversial due to potential side effects.
There is some evidence that HGH therapy can raise estrogen levels in men. Estrogen is the main female sex hormone. Too much estrogen can cause side effects like gynecomastia (male breast tissue growth).
How HGH Might Increase Estrogen
- HGH increases the enzyme aromatase, which converts testosterone to estrogen. So more aromatase leads to more estrogen production.
- HGH causes the liver to make more IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor 1). IGF-1 supports cell growth and tissue repair. But it may also increase estrogen receptors that allow cells to respond to and use estrogen.
- Fat cells produce some estrogen naturally from adrenal hormones. If HGH helps you gain more body fat, you may produce more estrogen.
However, there are some important caveats about the HGH-estrogen link:
- Research is limited and results are mixed. Some studies show HGH raising estrogen levels. Others show no effect.
- Changes to estrogen levels and their symptoms can be highly variable from person to person.
- Estrogen side effects seem more likely at very high HGH doses used for anti-aging or bodybuilding. Therapeutic doses for hormone deficiency may not increase estrogen much.
Strategies to Manage Estrogen with HGH
If you use HGH and are concerned about increased estrogen, there are some things you can try:
- Take an aromatase inhibitor: Drugs like Arimidex block the aromatase enzyme that converts testosterone to estrogen. This can reduce estrogen effects from HGH.
- Lower your HGH dose: Only take as much HGH as you need for clear benefits. Supraphysiological doses have more side effect risks.
- Get regular lab work: Check your estrogen levels periodically to catch any unwanted rises early. Adjust doses accordingly.
- Improve lifestyle habits: Excess body fat and poor sleep/diet can all contribute to hormonal imbalance. Optimizing these can help stabilize estrogen levels.
When to Seek Professional Help
Our knowledgeable clinic staff at Balance Hormone Clinic can help you use HGH more safely. We offer:
- Hormone blood tests to tailor HGH dose just for you
- Ongoing lab monitoring to achieve optimal hormone balance
- The latest therapies to counteract estrogen effects
- Guidance on complementing HGH with exercise, nutrition and more
If you use HGH and feel side effects like erectile dysfunction, gynecomastia or emotional changes, please see a hormone therapy specialist. We can adjust your treatment plan to help you meet your health goals while keeping levels balanced.
Contact us today to ask about our new patient offers!