Growth Hormone and Ageing: When to Investigate Hormonal Changes

Hormones Change With Age — and It Matters

The gradual decline of growth hormone, IGF-1, testosterone (see our hormones guide), DHEA, and other anabolic hormones after age 30 contributes significantly to the physical decline most people accept as "just ageing" — loss of muscle mass, increased body fat, reduced energy, impaired recovery, declining cognitive sharpness, and poor sleep quality. These changes are measurable and increasingly addressable through functional medicine.

When Hormonal Investigation Is Warranted

FXMed tip: If any of this sounds familiar, our Hormone Balance Programme may be exactly what you need. Book a free assessment to find out where your health stands today.

• Unexplained progressive weight gain and muscle loss despite reasonable diet and exercise
• Chronic fatigue not explained by sleep, thyroid (see our hormones guide), or anaemia
• Significantly reduced libido and sexual function
• Mood decline, irritability, or depression without clear psychological trigger
• Rapid physical ageing compared to peers
• Abnormal features: enlarged hands, feet, or jaw (suggesting growth hormone excess — rare but important)

What FXMed Measures

Our Longevity & Anti-Aging programme includes: IGF-1 (growth hormone surrogate), testosterone (total and free), DHEAS, cortisol rhythm (morning and evening), full thyroid panel, estradiol (in women), and SHBG. This hormonal map reveals which systems are declining and what interventions are physiologically appropriate.

Optimising Hormones Naturally

• Sleep quality — 70% of growth hormone is released during deep sleep; sleep optimisation is the most powerful natural intervention
• Resistance exercise — the most evidence-based way to maintain anabolic hormone sensitivity
• Nutrition — adequate protein, zinc, vitamin D, and healthy fats support testosterone and IGF-1 production
• Stress management — chronic cortisol elevation suppresses all anabolic hormones
• Sleep — prioritised above all else in our Adrenal Reset Programme

Age Better

FXMed's Longevity Programme is designed for Lagos professionals who want to invest proactively in a longer, healthier life. Book your comprehensive hormonal assessment today — home visit or virtual consultation available.