Human Growth Hormone Doping In MMA
Why UFC Fighters Take HGH
The use of human growth hormone (HGH) among professional athletes has increased significantly in recent years. There are two main reasons for this:
- It claims not only to increase muscle mass but also to repair and increase the strength of connective tissue such as cartilage and tendons (unlike anabolic steroids).
- It was undetectable by drug tests in the 1980s.
- Currently, the World Anti-Doping Agency (WADA) uses two methods (THE ISOFORM METHOD, THE GH-2000 MARKER METHOD) for testing for it which has led to the detection of athletes doping on GH.
The Price of HGH
However, like any other performance-enhancing drug on the market, the benefits come at a price. Speaking, this drug is so expensive that it is only available to the athlete who is already earning a significant income.
The cost of a low to moderate dose is approximately $150 (US) per DAY! That means a one-year supply could easily cost you $30,000.00 (US) assuming you are cycling on and off appropriately. Because of the ultra-high cost, there is no such thing as real HGH on the black market. So, don’t look for it, and if someone you know is using it, you can guarantee it is not real.
However the question remains, is it worth the $30,000.00 per year price tag? Of course not. Its high price tag does not equal the potential performance gains that it has to offer. Let’s take a closer look at what this is.
WHAT IS HGH?
This hormone is produced by the pituitary gland and exists at high levels during adolescence. It aids in protein synthesis, the growth of tissue, and the breakdown of fat. Except for the eyes, brain, and other organs, increasing the number of cells rather than the size of skeletal muscle and connective tissue. The repairing and strengthening of connective tissue, cartilage, and tendons is very attractive to athletes since it can prevent many injuries during training and competition.
The process by which it is released is as follows: The hypothalamus releases gh, releasing it and somatostatin to stimulate or inhibit the output of growth by the pituitary. This process is regulated by IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor), which is a highly anabolic hormone released by the liver and other tissues that can affect not only tissue growth but also bone growth.
RISKS OF HGH
Hence, it does not come without risks. Acromegaly, the thickening of the bones in the feet, forehead, hands, jaw, and elbows are common side-effects. Therefore, long-term use of human growth hormone can leave the athlete with permanent facial feature changes, which may not be desired. Using it has also been linked to hypoglycemia, diabetes, and enlarged heart and kidneys.
HGH Common Side Effects on Men
Hypoglycemia
Headache
Earaches
Back pain
Cough
Diarrhea
Depression
Chills
Dry hair and skin
Dizziness
Weight gain or loss
Less Common HGH Side Effects On Men
Chest pain
Swelling
Rash
Edema
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Breast enlargement
Sleeping Problems
Poor concentration
Muscle pain
Cramps
Skeletal pain
HGH Common Side Effects on Women
Hypoglycemia
Weight gain or loss
Dry hair and skin
Headache
Constipation
Shortness of breath
Depression
Dizziness
Less Common HGH Side Effects On Women
Unusual tiredness
Pain and swelling
Itching
Irritability
Carpal Tunnel Syndrome
Sleeping Problems
Poor concentration
Muscle cramps
INCREASING THE RISKS
It has been noted that human growth hormone use alone is not very effective as a sports performance drug. Only when coupled with an androgenic steroid will the benefits become extremely synergistic and noticeable. This compounds the problem. Now you are not only increasing your health risks by taking both growth hormone and steroids, but you are also increasing your chances of testing positive in a drug test.
It is quite evident that the ultra-high cost along with the inherent health risks, is not worth the performance gains associated. Again, proper nutrition, training, and plenty of sleep will release all the growth hormone your body needs naturally. Nonetheless, human (and personal) growth can only come from proper nourishment of the mind, body, and spirit—not from a drug.
LAST THOUGHT
Start paying attention to your body, notice subtle signs in your training, start asking questions, seek experienced answers, and most importantly, don’t settle on your performance, there is always room for improvement.
Dr. Paul Biondich, B.Sc.Kin., D.C., treats many athletes, including UFC’s Carlos Newton. He is also a member of the Everton McEwan Team. For more information: www.fourseasonschiropractic.ca www.carlosnewton.com
References:
Growth hormone-induced increase in serum IGFBP-3 level is reversed by anabolic steroids in substance-abusing power athletes. Clin. Endocrinol (Oxf) 49:459-63,1998
Evidence supporting a direct suppressive effect of growth hormone on serum IGFBP-1 levels. Experimental studies in normal, obese, and GH-deficient adults. Growth Hormone and IGF Research 9:52-60, 1999
William Llewellyn, Anabolics 2002 Anabolic Steroid Reference Manual. Muscle monthly, Molecular Nutrition.
