What time period does growth hormone secrete the most

Growth hormone is most secreted during the deep sleep phase of nighttime sleep, mainly concentrated in the two peak periods of 1-2 hours after falling asleep and 3-5 am in the morning. The secretion level is influenced by factors such as sleep quality, age, exercise, and nutritional status.

1. Deep sleep period:

When the human body enters the third stage of non rapid eye movement sleep, the pulsatile secretion of growth hormone reaches its peak. About 70% of growth hormone in adults is secreted in the first half of the night, while in children, the secretion is higher and lasts longer. Sleep deprivation or disrupted sleep structure can directly inhibit hormone secretion.

2. Post sleep period: The first secretion peak of

occurs 60-90 minutes after falling asleep, synchronized with the first deep sleep cycle. At this time, the secretion amount accounts for about 50% of the total amount of the day, and the secretion intensity is related to the time of falling asleep. The peak appears earlier for those who go to bed early.

3. Early morning period: The second secretion peak of

is concentrated between 3-5 am and is related to the regulation of circadian rhythm. Although the secretion during this period is lower than in the first half of the night, it is particularly important for children's growth and development. Sleeping with lights on or frequent night awakenings can interrupt secretion.

4. Exercise effects:

There will be an additional secretion peak within 60 minutes after high-intensity exercise, especially after strength training. But nighttime exercise requires at least 2 hours of sleep interval, otherwise it may interfere with normal secretion rhythm.

5. Age difference:

Children before puberty secrete 3-4 times more at night than adults, and there is also a small amount of secretion during the day. After the age of 30, the secretion decreases year by year, and at the age of 60, the nighttime secretion is only 25% -30% of that in youth. maintaining a regular sleep schedule, avoiding blue light exposure before bedtime, and controlling carbohydrate intake during dinner can help optimize growth hormone secretion. Children should ensure to fall asleep before 21:00, and adults are advised to enter sleep before 23:00. Moderate resistance exercise and control of body fat percentage within the normal range can improve secretion efficiency, while excessive adipose tissue in obese individuals can inhibit hormone secretion. If necessary, the actual secretion level can be detected through the hospital growth hormone stimulation test.