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IGF-1
.
Insulin-Like Growth Factor 1
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What's
IGF-1
?
Insulin-Like Growth Factor 1 (IGF-1) is a hormone that has a structure similar to insulin and plays a crucial role in your body's growth and development. Mainly produced in the liver in response to growth hormone signals from the brain's pituitary gland, IGF-1 is responsible for promoting growth and managing the body's metabolism. It is essential for cell growth, multiplication, and healing, helping the overall development of tissues throughout your body, including muscles, bones, and nerves. In short, IGF-1 is a vital component in the complex network of hormones that maintain your body's growth and cellular health.
If Your Levels Are High
Elevated IGF-1 levels might mean that your body is making more of this hormone than usual. This can happen for various reasons, such as eating a lot of protein or dairy products, taking certain medications that boost IGF-1 production, or having increased growth hormone activity in your body. While IGF-1 is important for growth and development, having too much can throw off your body's hormone balance and affect different tissues and organs. Keep in mind that high IGF-1 levels don't always point to a specific health issue, as they can change based on your lifestyle and overall well-being.
Symptoms of High Levels
Symptoms of high levels of IGF-1 could include unusual growth in the hands and feet, joint pain, thickened skin, and facial changes such as a protruding jaw or enlarged nose. Some people may also experience headaches or impaired vision.
If Your Levels are Low
Low IGF-1 levels might mean that your body's growth and development processes aren't working as they should. This could be due to a number of reasons, such as not getting enough protein and essential nutrients in your diet, or having an imbalance in your hormone production system. Some medications, like corticosteroids, can also cause lower IGF-1 levels. Additionally, ongoing stress or illness might affect how much IGF-1 your body produces. In some cases, low levels could be linked to conditions like hypopituitarism, where your pituitary gland doesn't make enough hormones.
Symptoms of Low Levels
Symptoms of low levels of IGF-1 could include slowed growth or development, muscle weakness, fatigue, and difficulty with concentration or memory.
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Insulin-Like Growth Factor 1
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