IGF-1 stands for Insulin-like Growth Factor 1 and is otherwise known as somatomedin C. This is a complex, metabolite hormone that is derived by the liver converting HGH into IGF-1, and resembles the insulin hormone in appearance, hence the name. Any HGH secreted by the pituitary gland needs to be converted first into IGF-1 before it can be used by the cells and body. The good news is that GenF20 Plus does contain IGF-1, in its natural state. As part of its ingredients, GenF20 Plus has deer antler velvet and colostrum, two of the richest sources of IGF-1.
Deer antler velvet is the immature antlers of deer that have not yet hardened or calcified. It is composed of cartilaginous matter and therefore a rich source of glucosamine, chondroitin, and collagen, all important for maintaining tissue elasticity and connectivity. However, it has been found that the immature antlers of deer also contain a high level of IGF-1, since a lot of this hormone is concentrated in the immature antlers to propel its growth.
Colostrum is the firstborn milk produced by mammals (including humans) that is meant to give the newborn a good head start into the world. Containing antibodies to help protect the baby from pathogens and a ton of nutrients, colostrum invariably also has a high level of IGF-1, which as we know, assists the newborn baby to grow even faster.
Think of IGF-1 as the ready-to-use version of HGH. Thus, all the benefits ascribed to HGH are also true for IGF-1:
- Increase muscle mass and strength
- Vitalize the skin and hair
- Help with wound healing and tissue repair
- Increased endurance and energy
- Improve sleep quality
- Increase sexual desire
- Improved outlook and disposition
Studies have found that the presence of IGF-1 in the bloodstream actually encourages the body to stop releasing even more HGH after a certain level is reached in the bloodstream. Hormones always work in this feedback-loop manner, and in this context, IGF-1 acts like a regulator for HGH release.
This HGH-IGF-1 axis works like this: HGH is released at night and is at its highest, while during daytime, IGF-1 levels increase, corresponding with a fall in HGH levels. Scientists have also found that IGF-1 supplementation can actually enhance this loop-feedback hormone cycle.
Most athletes and bodybuilders take IGF-1 in one form or another. When you take GenF20 Plus, you are assured of supplementing your IGF-1 levels in an all natural manner, since GenF20 Plus only consists of wholly natural ingredients.
