Water fasting is said to increase the human growth hormone by ten times after 37,5 hours of fasting. If true, what does it do and what does it mean for the body? What happen withs with testosteron levels when fasting? And what happens with creatine? Does this human growth hormone speed up muscle and tendon recovery?

Here's a summary of how fasting impacts human growth hormone (HGH), testosterone, and creatine levels, as well as their implications for muscle recovery.

Human Growth Hormone (HGH)

• Increase During Fasting: Fasting can significantly increase HGH levels, particularly through the action of ghrelin, the hunger hormone, which mimics growth hormone-releasing hormone. Studies indicate fasting can double HGH levels but not to the extent of using synthetic HGH or other stimulation methods like exercise or saunas 1.
• Effects on Recovery: HGH plays a crucial role in tissue repair, muscle growth, and body composition. It is involved in fat loss and improved muscle health, making it beneficial for recovery from exercise and injuries 1 2.

Testosterone

• Impact of Fasting: Research indicates that time-restricted feeding can lead to a decrease in free testosterone levels. This decrease can be significant and may be attributed to hormonal fluctuations associated with fasting and caloric restriction 3 4.
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    Fasting and Growth Hormone

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    3

    Intermittent Fasting Insights

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    4

    Hormones and Time-Restricted Feeding

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• Overall Effects: While intermittent fasting can improve mental clarity and metabolic flexibility, its potential negative impact on testosterone should be considered, especially for those focusing on strength training or overall hormonal health 4.

Creatine

• Fast Effects: There is limited discussion specifically about creatine levels during fasting in the retrieved data. However, fasting or caloric restriction generally influences anabolic processes, which could indirectly impact how the body utilizes creatine.
• General Considerations: Maintaining sufficient caloric intake and protein levels is essential for optimal muscle recovery and growth, which can be influenced by creatine supplementation. Further details on this topic may be available in dedicated episodes or resources.

Summary of Recovery Implications

• HGH and Recovery: Increased HGH from fasting can enhance muscle and tendon recovery, supporting repair processes and improving overall muscle health 1 2.
• Testosterone and Performance: While HGH assists recovery, decreased testosterone during fasting might adversely affect energy levels and muscle retention, which is essential for athletic performance 3 4.

This information highlights the complex interplay between fasting, hormonal changes, and their effects on body composition and recovery.