I'm curious about the benefits of adding Human Growth Hormone (HGH) to a traditional steroid cycle. I know it's expensive and requires a longer commitment. What are the key benefits, like fat loss and recovery? What about the risks, such as insulin resistance and organ growth? What is a typical beginner's protocol?
HGH is a game-changer, but it's a marathon, not a sprint. The benefits, like fat loss, improved skin, and better joint health, take months to become apparent. A beginner dose is usually 2-4 IU per day, and you need to be committed for at least 6 months, if not longer.
The risks are real. Insulin resistance is a major one, which can lead to type 2 diabetes if not managed. You might need to use insulin or a supplement like Berberine to manage blood sugar. Also, the risk of developing acromegaly (abnormal growth) is a concern with very high doses over a long period.
HGH and anabolics have a synergistic effect. The steroids build muscle, and the HGH helps with fat loss, collagen synthesis, and recovery. The two compounds work on different receptors, making the combination very powerful. It's a classic "pro" stack for a reason.
The improved recovery from HGH is a huge benefit. You can train harder and more frequently. The fat loss is also a slow, steady process that makes a significant difference over a long cycle. It's often used for a "recomposition" phase.
When combining with steroids, the HGH protocol stays the same. The steroid cycle is usually a shorter, more intense part of the overall regimen. You can run HGH for months, but a typical steroid cycle might only be 12-16 weeks. The HGH continues after the steroids are stopped.
The long duration is a major consideration. What about the source? HGH is a notoriously counterfeited and expensive product. How do you ensure you're getting real HGH?
You can have your HGH product tested by a lab, or you can check for IGF-1 levels in your blood after a few weeks of use. A significant jump in IGF-1 indicates that the HGH is real. The source is probably the most important part of running an HGH cycle.
Another side effect to watch for is water retention, especially in the first few weeks. It can feel like your hands and feet are swollen. This usually subsides, but it's something to be aware of.
The best way to dose HGH is to split it into two injections per day. One in the morning and one in the afternoon. This mimics the body's natural pulse of growth hormone.