IGF-1, or Insulin-Like Growth Factor 1, is a hormone primarily produced by the liver in response to growth hormone (GH). It plays a critical role in cellular growth, tissue repair, metabolism, muscle development, cognitive function, and overall recovery.
IGF-1 acts as a key mediator of growth hormone’s effects throughout the body. Adequate levels support efficient muscle repair, healthy metabolism, brain function, and physical resilience. As individuals age—or experience chronic stress, inflammation, poor sleep, or hormonal imbalance—IGF-1 levels may decline. When this occurs, symptoms such as fatigue, reduced muscle tone, slower recovery, weight gain, and cognitive fog can develop.
IGF-1 therapy may be used under medical supervision to support cellular repair, metabolic function, physical performance, and overall vitality. Treatment is carefully structured, evidence-based, and individualized to ensure safety and effectiveness.
When appropriately indicated and monitored, IGF-1 therapy may support:
IGF-1 supports muscle protein synthesis and repair, helping preserve or rebuild lean muscle mass and improve strength.
IGF-1 plays a key role in cellular regeneration, supporting faster recovery from physical exertion, injury, or chronic inflammation.
By supporting metabolic efficiency, IGF-1 may help improve body composition and fat utilization.
IGF-1 is involved in neuronal growth and brain health and may support mental clarity, focus, and cognitive performance.
Optimizing IGF-1 levels may improve overall energy, endurance, and daily functioning.
IGF-1 contributes to collagen production, tissue maintenance, and cellular regeneration, supporting long-term structural and metabolic health.
IGF-1 therapy may be appropriate for individuals experiencing symptoms associated with low IGF-1 levels, including:
Persistent fatigue or low energy
Difficulty building or maintaining muscle mass
Slow recovery from exercise or injury
Increased body fat despite healthy habits
Cognitive fog or reduced mental clarity
Cognitive fog or reduced mental clarity
Chronic stress, inflammation, or disrupted sleep affecting vitality
IGF-1 therapy may be especially relevant for individuals navigating hormonal transitions or age-related metabolic changes. A comprehensive medical evaluation is required to determine candidacy.
IGF-1 therapy may support management of conditions where growth factor deficiency or decline plays a role, including:
Age-related muscle loss (sarcopenia)
Metabolic dysfunction such as insulin resistance or slowed metabolism
Cognitive decline or chronic brain fog
Poor recovery or chronic inflammation
Hormonal imbalance, as IGF-1 interacts with thyroid, estrogen, cortisol, and growth hormone pathways
Fatigue and reduced vitality
IGF-1 is best viewed as a systemic support therapy with legitimate medical applications when used responsibly and under supervision.
Before considering medical therapy, several lifestyle factors may help support natural IGF-1 production:
Resistance exercise is one of the most effective natural stimulators of IGF-1.
Deep, restorative sleep is essential for growth hormone and IGF-1 production.
Adequate dietary protein provides the amino acids needed for growth factor synthesis.
Elevated stress hormones can suppress IGF-1 production. Stress-management strategies may be beneficial.
Hormonal imbalances often affect IGF-1 levels and overall metabolic health.
If these strategies are in place and symptoms persist, medical evaluation may be appropriate.
At BHRT Delivered, IGF-1 therapy is approached with precision, safety, and individualized care.
A licensed medical provider reviews symptoms, health history, lifestyle factors, and treatment goals.
Evaluation of body composition, metabolic health, and potential contraindications is performed
If IGF-1 therapy is appropriate, a customized treatment protocol is developed based on individual needs and clinical findings.
Patients are closely monitored throughout treatment to assess response, adjust dosing, and ensure safety.
IGF-1 is a critical hormone involved in strength, recovery, metabolism, cognitive function, and overall vitality. When levels decline, the body may signal distress through fatigue, reduced performance, slow recovery, brain fog, and metabolic changes.
With appropriate testing, medical guidance, and individualized treatment, IGF-1 therapy may help restore energy, improve physical resilience, and support long-term health—safely and responsibly.
Through convenient telehealth care, BHRT Delivered provides evidence-based, personalized hormone support focused on restoring balance, performance, and quality of life.
