Leptin and Human Growth Hormone

Published:December 17th, 2010

Leptin is the hormone produced by our fat tissue, its role in regulating caloric intake and fat stores is essential. When we consume calories, leptin is secreted in our circulatory system and it from there it reaches our hypothalamus. The specialized receptors in the hypothalamus respond to the hormone leptin and the result is the feeling of satiety and increased energy output resulting from the body fat stored.

Leptin receptors in the hypothalamus can be damaged by a number of things such as chronic inflammation due to dietary stress, toxicity from heavy metals and other environmental pollutants. The damage produced to the leptin receptors results in the inability of the hypothalamus to respond to high insulin levels. What this means is that we have increased appetite and we gain weight.

Leptin is important for other processes as well, such as those related to memory. It can stimulate arterial formation, and the resulting increased blood supply can make the hippocampus function more effectively. Leptin is a significant factor in neurogenesis, which is the development of nerve tissue, axon growth, neuron excitability and neuro protection. People with Alzheimer’s have been found to accumulate a compound in the brain that can be regulated by leptin. Thus, leptin can protect the brain against neurodegenerative disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease.

One way to balance our leptin levels naturally is to have a balanced diet. We need to reduce sugar and grain consumption. Non-starchy vegetables and healthy fats, such as olive oils or extra-virgin coconut oil are also recommended.

High intensity exercise for short duration stimulates secretion of human growth hormone, which is responsible for boosting the fat burning mechanisms of our body and thus levels of leptine can be balanced. Just like in the case of human growth hormone, leptin levels rise during our sleep.

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