Does Heat Exposure Increase Growth Hormone?

What is growth hormone?

Human growth hormone (HGH) is a hormone that plays a crucial role in the growth, development, and maintenance of various tissues and organs in the body. It is produced by the pituitary gland, a small gland located at the base of the brain.

Why is growth hormone important?

Growth hormone promotes the growth of bones, cartilage, and other tissues, particularly during childhood and adolescence. It helps increase the length and size of bones. Growth hormone is also involved in the growth and development of muscle tissues. It enhances protein synthesis and helps maintain muscle mass.

HGH influences metabolism by promoting the breakdown of fats (lipolysis) and inhibiting the uptake of glucose by cells. It also contributes to the proper functioning and maintenance of organs such as the heart, liver, and kidneys.

As we age, growth hormone secretion decreases and can lead to an increase in obesity-related fragility.

Heat exposure and growth hormone

Heat exposure through sauna use has been shown to produce a transient release of this valuable hormone – with duration, temperature, and frequency playing key roles in the degree of elevation. For example, two 20-minute sessions at 80 °C (176 °F) yielded twice as much growth hormone than baseline whereas 15 minutes at 100 °C (212 °F) saw levels five times higher.¹

Extended sauna sessions may have an immediate and profound effect on growth hormone levels; a study of 17 male and female participants found that after seven consecutive days in 80°C (176°F) dry heat, their concentrations had increased by up to 16 times.

Additionally, results showed that combining exercise and sauna usage can further stimulate this release of growth hormone, creating even greater benefits for users.