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Do your hormones support lean muscle mass
The IGF-1 test is an indirect measure of the average amount of GH being produced by the body. IGF-1 and GH are peptide hormones that are vital for normal bone and tissue growth and development. GH is secreted into the blood in pulses during the day with peaks that occur mostly during the night. IGF-1 is produced by the liver and skeletal muscles in response to GH stimulation and stimulates the growth of bones and the production of lean muscle mass.
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A low IGF-1 test result can indicate decreased production of IGF-1 which can lead to low bone densities, less muscle mass and altered lipids. A high IGF-1 test result can mean elevated IGF-1 which can cause abnormal growth of the skeleton causing bones to thicken, and soft tissues such as the nose to swell. Both conditions can lead to enlarged organs, such as the heart, and other complications such as type 2 diabetes, increased cardiovascular disease risk, high blood pressure, arthritis and a decreased life span.