What are HGH Alternatives?

The simple answer: Human growth hormone (HGH) alternatives include peptide secretagogues, specific lifestyle and nutritional strategies, hormonal adjunct therapies, and over-the-counter (OTC) supplements. These alternatives aim to boost the body’s natural growth hormone production or mimic its effects, offering options for those seeking benefits such as improved muscle mass, fat loss, or healthy aging—without the risks and legal concerns associated with direct HGH use.

Explore the most effective HGH alternatives below, including key compounds, science-backed strategies, and considerations for safety and practicality.

Peptide Secretagogues

Peptide secretagogues are compounds that stimulate the pituitary gland to release more growth hormone. These peptides are widely used in the biohacking community due to their ability to enhance growth hormone and IGF-1 (insulin-like growth factor 1) levels while maintaining more natural hormonal rhythms.

CJC-1295/Ipamorelin Combos

CJC-1295, especially when paired with Ipamorelin, is recognized for significantly increasing IGF-1 levels by 1.5–3 times for up to 11 days after injection. Daily subcutaneous injections are the standard protocol, and users typically pay $400–$500 per month for this regimen. This combo preserves natural GH pulsatility and is popular for supporting lean muscle gain and fat reduction.

MK-677 (Ibutamoren)

MK-677 is an orally active secretagogue that boosts growth hormone by 97% and IGF-1 by 88% at a 25 mg daily dosage. Unlike injectable peptides, MK-677 is taken as a pill, making it convenient. However, it may also increase insulin and prolactin levels, necessitating careful monitoring.

Sermorelin Therapy

Sermorelin is a peptide that stimulates the body’s natural growth hormone release, mirroring physiological secretion patterns. Priced at $200–$400 per month, it is administered through subcutaneous injections. Sermorelin therapy is linked to gains in lean muscle and reductions in abdominal fat.

Lifestyle & Nutritional Boosters

Natural lifestyle interventions can powerfully influence growth hormone levels. These methods often complement peptide or hormonal therapies.

High-Intensity Exercise

Ten weeks of high-intensity interval training (HIIT) have been shown to increase IGF-1 by 22%. While growth hormone levels may not rise directly, the downstream benefits on muscle growth and fat metabolism are substantial.

Intermittent Fasting

Fasting for 24 hours can raise growth hormone levels dramatically—by up to 1,225% in individuals with low baseline secretion. This effect is partly due to reduced insulin levels and increased stress on the body, which encourages GH release as an adaptive response.

Amino Acid Stacks

Certain amino acids, notably GABA and arginine/lysine blends, can temporarily boost growth hormone. Oral GABA (3 grams) has been shown to increase growth hormone by 400% at rest and 200% post-exercise. However, arginine/lysine stacks may cause gastrointestinal discomfort and have inconsistent results.

Hormonal Adjuncts

Hormonal optimization can further support healthy growth hormone dynamics, especially when underlying deficiencies are present.

Testosterone Replacement

In hypogonadal men (those with low testosterone), testosterone therapy can synergize with growth hormone, optimizing IGF-1 levels and supporting muscle, bone, and metabolic health.

IGF-1 LR3 Micro-dosing

IGF-1 LR3 is a synthetic version of IGF-1 with a longer half-life. Micro-doses (20–100 mcg/day) administered post-workout are used by some biohackers to enhance muscle recovery and growth. However, IGF-1 therapies should be approached with caution due to their potent effects.

Thyroid Optimization

Thyroid hormones, particularly T4, are essential for normal growth hormone activity. In hypothyroid individuals, T4 therapy can increase IGF-1 levels by 32%. Proper thyroid balance is crucial for maximizing the benefits of other HGH alternatives.

OTC Supplements

Several over-the-counter supplements are linked to enhanced growth hormone release, offering an accessible starting point for many individuals.

Alpha-GPC

Alpha-GPC, a choline compound, has been shown to increase post-exercise growth hormone by 44 times and boost peak power output by 8.5%. A typical dose is 600 mg per day.

GABA & Glycine

GABA, a neurotransmitter, can increase growth hormone secretion within an hour of intake, particularly at a 3-gram dosage. Glycine is also suggested to support growth hormone release, especially when combined with resistance training.

Melatonin

Melatonin, commonly used for sleep support, has some evidence for modestly increasing growth hormone secretion during deep sleep, although the effect is less dramatic compared to peptides or exercise.

Decision Criteria

Choosing the right HGH alternative requires aligning your goals, safety considerations, and budget.

Goal Alignment

Decide whether your primary objective is muscle growth, fat loss, anti-aging, or overall wellness. Some alternatives, like IGF-1 LR3, are more suited for muscle recovery, while others, such as intermittent fasting, support metabolic health and longevity.

Safety Profile

Assess the safety of each approach. Peptide secretagogues and hormonal therapies may carry risks, such as insulin resistance or hormonal imbalances. Regular monitoring by a healthcare professional, preferably an endocrinologist or functional medicine practitioner, is highly recommended.

Budget & Access

Costs can vary widely. Peptide therapies typically range from $200–$500 per month, while OTC supplements like Alpha-GPC cost $30–$60 monthly. Lifestyle interventions, though effective, may require significant time and discipline but little financial investment.

HGH Alternatives at a Glance

For further guidance, consult organizations such as the Endocrine Society, International Peptide Society, American Thyroid Association, Institute for Functional Medicine, and International Society of Sports Nutrition.

When considering HGH alternatives, weigh your goals, health status, and resources carefully. Safe and evidence-based approaches can help you optimize growth hormone pathways for enhanced performance, recovery, and longevity.