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Effects of HGH on Athletes

Human growth hormone, or H, has become a frequent topic of conversation and controversy in professional sports. While bodybuilders have known about and used HGH for decades, athletes in other sports are looking into its effects.

  1. Anabolic Effects

    • HGH promotes the growth of muscle cells through hypertrophy and in some instances can cause hyperplasia, which is the multiplication of muscle cells. The end result is added muscle mass.

    Regenerative Effects

    • Like steroids, HGH affects the strengthening of muscle tissue, helping athletes recover from injury faster. However, unlike steroids, HGH also helps strengthen connective tissue like tendons and ligaments.

    Metabolic Effects

    • Human growth hormone helps release fatty acids, which burn fat stores in the body while helping to build muscle mass.

    Anti-Catabolic Effect

    • Using HGH can help athletes recover faster from intense workouts and diets by not breaking down muscle proteins.

    Endurance

    • In older athletes, HGH can replenish hormones that are naturally lost as people age. Since growth hormone levels diminish by half every 10 years, the effects can have a noticeable difference in performance.

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