IGF-1 Side Effects, Health Dangers and Risks

Concern about IGF-1 side effects prevents many people from exploring the benefits of this natural growth factor.

IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor) is already produced by the body, as the natural by-product of Human Growth Hormone synthesis in the liver.

Used by the body to signal cell growth which leads to muscle and bone growth, IGF is an essential component of development and natural injury recovery.

But what happens when athletes and the infirm try to boost levels of IGF to accelerate muscle growth? Serious side effects like cancers and sexual dysfunction may ensue – unless IGF is taken in a non-harmful form.

We’ll explore why people take IGF, as well as the dangers they present. Then we’ll look at some new products on the market like deer antler extracts which may eliminate the risks.

IGF-1

Bodybuilding Supplement

Bodybuilding

Joint Health

Sexual Health

How It Works:

• Involved in muscle protein synthesis
• Supports joint health & functionality
• May aid sexual function & anti-aging

Dosage:

Varies depending on formulation.

Safety:

Rated Possibly Safe

Top IGF-1 Supplements* ❯

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The Purpose of IGF-1 Supplements

People generally take IGF-1 supplements for the same reason the body naturally produces the substance.

The pituitary gland generates Human Growth Hormone, a complex protein that stimulates nerve and tissue growth throughout the body.

One of its by-products, IGF-1, specifically targets the cell division which results in the expansion of muscle tissue. This property is very useful as children grow – the biological imperative to expand mass must be supported by musculoskeletal structure.

Genetics play a huge role in the amount of HGH and IGF-1 which any given body produces, accounting for natural differences in height and weight which run along hereditary lines. Throughout life, the same rapid growth characteristics are put to use for repair of muscle and bone following injury.

As far as the body is concerned, weightlifting, bodybuilding, and all forms of intense exercise are actually a form of injury. Micro-tears in muscle fiber accompany strenuous exertion and pressure differentials of muscle tensile strength vs. the weight and force of opposing objects.

In response to these tears, more growth factor is produced and sent to the affected area, generating rapid muscle growth as a protection against further damage. This action results in muscle growth we can see, and which many bodybuilders strive for.

IGF-1 then makes an attractive supplement choice for anyone who wishes to increase muscle size faster. For a breakdown of commercial IGF-1 supplements which are available, click here.

IGF-1 Side Effects vs. Steroids Use

Another well-known class of growth supplements are anabolic steroid.

These are synthetic forms of testosterone or HGH which are injected directly into muscle in order to prompt release of male hormones such as testosterone.

The desired effect is the same – boost muscle and bone strength quickly, while aiding in injury recovery and prevention.

Unfortunately, steroids come with many known side effects from prolonged use. These include:

• Exaggerated growth of organs
• Appearance of secondary sexual characteristics from the opposite sex
• Shrinkage of testes and suppression of testosterone production
• Reproductive problems
• Erectile dysfunction
• Manic depressive mood disorders
• Eating disorders
• Body dysmorphia
• Addiction and dependency

IGF-1 can indeed exhibit many of these same side effects, when it is taken in a synthetic form. In addition to the IGF-1 that the body produces, many people take a supplement which is made from artificial IGF-1 such as mecasermin.

This product is actually intended for patients who exhibit severe growth stunting. Taken as a weight lifting aid, it can be harmful, as it creates a severe imbalance in existing healthy levels of IGF-1 already present.

IGF-1 side effects can be mitigated by sticking to natural forms of the compound, and being careful not to overdose. Proper dosing guidelines for IGF are explored here.

Do Women Face Additional IGF-1 Side Effects Risks?

IGF-1 side effects may also imitate the effects of the primary female sex hormone estrogen. Estrogen is produced to regulate all female reproductive functions, signaling ovulation and menstruation. Estrogen also appears in lower quantities in mens’ bodies, where it plays a role in bone integrity. IGF-1 can activate estrogen receptors, tricking the body into releasing excess estrogen.

This can interfere with the timing of reproductive cycles, and even lead to tumors and other cancers inside the female reproductive system. This is the main reason that steroid and growth hormone use are particularly risky for women. Any history of reproductive cancer or imbalanced estrogen levels should immediately disqualify any women from taking a growth factor supplement of any kind.

Is IGF-1 Safe?

IGF-1 side effects can be as severe as those of artificial steroids, provided the supplement is synthetic (lab-derived), and injected at high levels over a long period of time. However, most people who wish to try IGF – including amateur athletes and people desiring muscle support for age-related conditions – will be discouraged by having to acquire a prescription and inject the compound. Years of warnings about steroids side effects also dissuade many from trying IGF-1.

Today, more effective and less risky methods for taking the supplement, such as antler extract sprays, make IGF supplementation more viable. This type of mild daily supplementation allows men and women to explore the benefits of IGF supplements safely and effectively. To find out more facts about what benefits antler extracts offer click here.

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