The comparison between testosterone and growth hormone becomes more relevant as America's older population grows. Statistics show that by 2050, Americans over 65 will reach almost 100 million - more than double today's 46 million . Children will be outnumbered by older adults by 2030, marking a first in US history .
This fundamental change in demographics has put hormone optimisation for men over 60 in the spotlight. Testosterone prescriptions for men over 60 rose significantly from 1.32% in 2001 to 3.75% in 2011 . Growth hormone therapy has also shown promising results. To cite an instance, a study showed that six months of growth hormone treatment increased lean body mass by 8.8 percent and reduced adipose-tissue mass by 14.4 percent . Both hormones offer distinct benefits and risks that need careful evaluation. Men experience hormonal changes as they age, and understanding how HGH matches up against testosterone helps them make better decisions about hormone replacement options.
How testosterone and growth hormone change after 60
Men's hormonal balance changes slowly but noticeably after they turn 60. Their testosterone and growth hormone (GH) levels drop at different rates through different processes. You should think about these changes if you want to optimise your hormones after 60.
Why both hormones decline with age
Testosterone starts dropping earlier than most men expect. Right after puberty, testosterone decreases about 1% every year [1]. Men notice this drop more in their 40s. The reduction speeds up to between 0.4% and 2.6% yearly between ages 40-70 [2]. Medical professionals call this "andropause" or male menopause.
GH drops even faster. After age 30, GH production falls about 15% every ten years [3]. Let's put that in real terms. Daily GH peaks during puberty at about 150 μg/kg/day. By age 55, it drops to about 25 μg/kg/day [3]. The normal pattern of GH release also changes. The pulse strength decreases, and the body loses all the important nighttime sleep-related GH pulses [3].
Both hormone systems keep working as you age, just not as well as before. This natural drop affects many body functions that change how your muscles develop and affect your bone density.
The role of the hypothalamic-pituitary axis
The hypothalamic-pituitary axis controls hormone production throughout your body. The hypothalamus makes releasing hormones - gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) for testosterone and growth hormone-releasing hormone (GHRH) for GH production [4]. These hormones tell the anterior pituitary to release luteinizing hormone (LH) and follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) for testosterone, and growth hormone directly.
Your body changes as you get older. The ageing pituitary doesn't respond as well to triggers like exercise and sleep [3]. The hypothalamic neurons that make GHRH might decrease or stop working properly. Testosterone drops because of changes in the testicles and changes in hypothalamic and pituitary signalling [2].
These age-related changes create a loop. Lower hormone levels and reduced tissue sensitivity make it harder for your body to keep hormone levels where they should be.
How lifestyle and health conditions affect hormone levels
Many lifestyle choices and health issues can speed up hormone decline. Being overweight is a big deal as it means that men are 2.48 times more likely to develop low testosterone, whatever their age [5]. These men were also 8.62 times more likely to feel psychological effects from low testosterone [2].
Here's what else can lower your testosterone:
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Long-term stress raises cortisol and blocks testosterone production [1]
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Long-lasting illnesses like kidney disease, diabetes, lung disease, and cirrhosis [1]
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Poor health, including mental health issues, makes low testosterone 2.73 times more likely [2]
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High cholesterol increases risk by 2.07 times [2]
The good news? Healthy lifestyle changes help maintain hormone levels even as you age. Exercise helps testosterone levels the most. Research showed that being more active raised testosterone levels better than eating less during weight loss [1]. Regular exercise also builds lean muscle, strength, and stamina in older men [3].
The link between testosterone and growth hormone matters when you look at TRT versus natural approaches to hormone optimisation. Both hormones drop together [3], which might affect your body composition and metabolism more as you age past 60.
Understanding the unique roles of testosterone and HGH
Testosterone and human growth hormone (HGH) both decrease as we age, but they work in completely different ways in our body. These hormones play unique roles that matter a lot for men over 60. Let's look at how they work together to keep men healthy and energetic in their later years.
Testosterone: muscle, libido, and bone
Testosterone is the main male hormone that affects many parts of the body. This hormone helps build muscle by binding to androgen receptors in muscle cells [6]. It boosts muscle growth and repair, which helps maintain muscle mass throughout life. The hormone also improves muscle strength and affects how nerves and muscles work together [6].
Men who worry about muscle loss during ageing should know testosterone's importance. Low testosterone leads to less muscle mass and strength—this becomes a big issue for staying independent after 60. Research shows that testosterone replacement therapy helps men with low testosterone build muscle mass and get stronger [6].
Your bones need testosterone too. It's the main hormone from the testes that affects bone health. The hormone works directly on different bone cells and helps form new bone during puberty. It also slows down bone loss in adults [6]. Bone density preservation becomes crucial for older men since their risk of fractures goes up with age.
Most people know testosterone affects sex drive. Both men and women need this hormone for libido or sexual desire [6]. It works on several brain areas, especially the hypothalamus, which controls sexual drive and arousal. The hormone also helps with erectile function and sexual performance [6].
Growth hormone: metabolism, fat, and recovery
Growth hormone (GH) works differently than testosterone. It manages how your body processes nutrients and repairs tissues rather than controlling sexual traits. GH helps regulate how your body handles sugar, fat, and protein [3]. It makes your body release more insulin and absorb glucose, though it can make some tissues resist insulin [3].
Ageing men benefit most from GH's effect on body composition. The hormone helps break down fat in both deep and surface fat tissues by boosting an important enzyme [3]. This explains why men with less GH tend to have more belly fat [7]. Using synthetic GH or boosting your natural GH helps reduce belly fat and improves blood fat levels [3].
GH also helps with protein metabolism. It acts as a building hormone that helps make more protein. It does this by reducing amino acid breakdown and helping muscles absorb more branched-chain amino acids [3]. You can see this effect in reduced levels of waste products in urine [3].
Older men who take longer to heal can benefit from GH's recovery properties. The hormone makes bones stronger, skin thicker, and improves stamina—all vital for a good life after 60 [7].
How IGF-1 reflects GH activity
IGF-1 carries out most of growth hormone's effects. Your liver and other tissues release IGF-1 when GH stimulates them [8]. IGF-1 stays in your blood for about 15 hours, while GH comes in bursts. This makes IGF-1 a reliable measurement of how much GH your body produces [8].
Doctors check IGF-1 levels to diagnose GH problems [8]. This works better than measuring GH directly because GH levels change throughout the day.
IGF-1 does more than just show GH levels—it helps growth on its own [4]. It can even help build muscle when GH isn't present [9]. This means some benefits we think come from GH might actually come from increased IGF-1.
Understanding how these hormones work together becomes crucial when you're thinking about natural versus pharmaceutical hormone optimisation. Both hormones help body composition but work differently—testosterone builds muscle directly while GH and IGF-1 control metabolism and fat burning [10].
Benefits of testosterone therapy in older men
Image Source: AAI Clinics
Testosterone replacement therapy (TRT) brings real benefits to older men with low testosterone levels. Research shows that testosterone therapy creates measurable improvements in multiple body systems, unlike growth hormone therapy which doesn't deal very well with age-related hormone drops.
Improved lean muscle mass and strength
Men over 60 need to keep their muscle mass to stay independent and maintain quality of life. TRT helps improve body composition in older men. Clinical trials reveal that TRT increases lean body mass by 1.65-6.20 kg in older men [11]. Studies show an average gain of 3.59 kg in lean mass [11].
The benefits go beyond bigger muscles. Older men on testosterone show better results in real-world strength tests:
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Chest press strength and power
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Leg press power
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Stair-climbing power [12]
Their hand-grip strength also improves by about 2.19 kg with testosterone therapy [12]. This matters because grip strength helps predict overall health in ageing. These improvements help men stay mobile and independent - crucial factors after 60.
Bone density and fracture prevention
Testosterone therapy boosts bone mineral density (BMD). The treatment makes bones stronger, especially in their inner structure rather than outer layers [13]. The numbers tell the story: testosterone raises lumbar spine trabecular BMD by 7.5% while placebo only manages 0.8% [13].
The TRAVERSE study results paint a different picture about preventing fractures. Men taking testosterone had more fractures (3.50%) than those on placebo (2.46%) [14]. These unexpected findings suggest we still have more to learn about how testosterone affects bone health.
Sexual function and mood enhancement
TRT's most popular benefit relates to sexual function. Multiple tests confirm that testosterone boosts sexual desire [1]. The effects level off after about three months of treatment [15].
Men report better moods and more energy with testosterone therapy [1]. This happens even without clinical depression. The energy boost [1] can make daily life better for men over 60.
Risks: prostate, cardiovascular, and polycythemia
TRT comes with risks that need careful watching. Polycythemia tops the list - it means too many red blood cells. Men who develop polycythemia (hematocrit ≥52%) on testosterone face 35% higher odds of serious heart problems and blood clots in the first year [16]. Numbers show that 5.15% of men with polycythemia have heart complications compared to 3.87% of those with normal blood counts [16].
Recent big trials found no major difference in serious heart problems between testosterone and placebo groups [17]. Some studies linked testosterone to higher risks of irregular heartbeat, lung clots, and kidney damage [17].
Prostate health used to worry doctors prescribing TRT. Studies now show no real differences in prostate-specific antigen or prostate symptoms between testosterone and placebo groups [1]. Regular checkups still make sense for all men on therapy.
These benefits and risks help men over 60 make smart choices between testosterone and growth hormone therapy options.
Benefits of growth hormone therapy in older men
Growth hormone (GH) therapy has clear advantages for ageing men and provides different benefits than testosterone replacement. We found that growth hormone changes body composition through different mechanisms than testosterone. This makes it an attractive option for men looking for specific physical improvements.
Fat loss and lean mass gain
Research shows that growth hormone therapy creates substantial changes in body composition. Key studies reveal that men on GH therapy saw a 14% decrease in body fat (about 3.5kg/7 pounds) and gained 8.8% more lean body mass [5]. Later studies backed these findings within six months, showing a 13.1% drop in fat mass along with a 4.3% gain in lean mass [2].
GH works through specific metabolic pathways. The hormone reduces fat by blocking lipoprotein lipase while boosting lipolysis [2]. This targeted approach mainly affects visceral fat—the metabolically active fat around internal organs that's riskier than fat under the skin.
Older men worried about losing muscle mass with age can benefit from GH therapy. A phase 3 trial with adults aged 23 to 80 years who had GH deficiency showed promising results. People getting weekly GH therapy gained much more total body lean mass (1.7 kg more) than those on placebo [18]. Their trunk fat mass dropped by 0.7 kg too [18].
Skin thickness and bone density
GH therapy boosts tissue quality throughout the body. Studies found a 13.4% increase in skin thickness among elderly men who received GH treatment [2]. This improvement helps address skin thinning that comes with age.
GH affects bone health in two phases. Bone loss happens first during the original 6-12 months of treatment, which might lead to slightly lower bone mineral density (BMD) [6]. Bone growth takes over after that, and bone mass increases after 12-24 months [6]. The spine shows better BMD improvements than the femur, with 4-10% increases after 18-24 months [6].
Aerobic capacity and recovery
GH therapy can boost cardiovascular function and overall endurance. Studies show that GH improves heart contractility, cardiac output, and ejection fraction [2]. It also makes glucose metabolism easier by lowering insulin levels while making cells more sensitive to insulin [2].
Physical performance improves too. Research points to a modest 10% increase in muscle strength and 2.5% better oxygen consumption in elderly men on growth hormone [2]. These small improvements can make a big difference in daily life for men over 60 who don't have as much energy as before.
Risks: insulin resistance, joint pain, cancer concerns
Despite its benefits, GH therapy comes with several important risks. Joint pain, fluid retention leading to swelling, and carpal tunnel syndrome are common side effects [19]. These symptoms get worse with age, so men over 60 need careful dose adjustments [6].
The metabolic effects raise more concerns, like the risk of insulin resistance and diabetes [20]. Some patients on GH therapy might see higher blood pressure and unusual lipid levels [5].
Cancer risks might be the most serious concern. A large study found more cancer cases and deaths among patients treated with recombinant HGH, especially in those who had cancer before [21]. Short studies can't tell us about long-term cancer risks, so we need to stay alert [22].
Choosing between growth hormone men over 60, testosterone for muscle loss and bone density needs careful thought. Talk to doctors who specialise in hormone optimisation 60+ about the specific benefits and risks.
Which hormone matters more for men over 60?
Image Source: Renew Vitality Testosterone Clinic
Men over 60 face important choices between testosterone and growth hormone therapy. Their best option depends on specific health goals and body needs.
Comparing testosterone vs HGH in clinical trials
Each hormone shows different results in studies. A key study found that growth hormone increased body cell mass by 8.8% and reduced fat tissue by 14.4% [23]. The results look impressive on paper. However, GH alone failed to improve muscle strength or performance in six out of eight clinical trials [23]. Testosterone proves more practical because it reliably boosts strength while changing body composition. This makes it better suited for daily activities.
When testosterone is more effective
Testosterone therapy works better for improving sexual function and desire. A major placebo-controlled study of men 65 and older showed that testosterone gel consistently improved libido and sexual activity measures [3]. The benefits go beyond the bedroom. Testosterone helps build practical strength that makes everyday tasks easier. Men who want better sexual health and physical abilities will find testosterone more helpful than GH alone.
When HGH may be more beneficial
HGH stands out in areas like skin quality, fat loss, and certain metabolic markers. It works especially well to reduce visceral fat - the dangerous fat around vital organs. It also helps improve aerobic capacity better than testosterone can do on its own [23].
The case for combined therapy
Research shows that using both hormones together might work better than using just one. A randomised clinical trial found that combining testosterone and GH led to better results in lean body mass, fat reduction, and muscle performance for older men [24]. The study showed total lean body mass increased by 1.0-3.0 kg across groups, and higher doses led to better results [7]. Groups using both hormones saw their upper and lower body strength improve by 14-35%, while single hormone groups barely changed [25].
Natural ways to support hormone levels after 60
Older men have several natural ways to support their hormone levels beyond medications. These methods can help optimise the body's natural hormone production, even though the effects might be subtle.
Exercise and resistance training
Exercise has a powerful effect on hormone regulation in men over 60. Studies show that moderate exercise can raise serum testosterone levels by 39% and free testosterone index by 23% in elderly men [26]. Different types of exercise affect hormones in unique ways. While resistance training works through androgen receptor sensitivity, both aerobic and interval training can lead to small but real increases in baseline testosterone [4].
Older men should focus on these key training elements:
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Compound movements that work large muscle groups
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Moderate weights with short rest periods (60-90 seconds)
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Training 2-3 days per week to recover properly [26]
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Sleep and circadian rhythm
The quality of sleep plays a crucial role in hormone production. Testosterone levels rise when we sleep. They peak during the first REM cycle and stay high until morning [8]. Throughout our lives, testosterone levels in the blood follow a daily pattern. They reach their highest point during sleep and lowest in the late afternoon [8].
Growth hormone also depends on sleep. The highest levels occur in the first 3 hours of uninterrupted sleep [8]. Men in their middle years produce nowhere near as much testosterone at night as younger men do [8].
Nutritional strategies and supplements
Good nutrition is the foundation of hormone balance. Research shows that eating 0.8-1.2g of protein per kilogramme of body weight each day provides enough amino acids without reducing testosterone production [26]. Too much protein intake (above 3.4g/kg/day) can actually lower testosterone levels by up to one-third [26].
Essential nutrients that support testosterone include zinc (25-50mcg daily), vitamin D, and magnesium from leafy greens [26]. Stable blood sugar levels help prevent stress hormone spikes that can disrupt sleep and affect hormone production [26].
Natural GH secretagogues
Growth hormone secretagogues could be alternatives to direct hormone replacement. Research looking at ibutamoren (MK-0677) showed increased pulsatile GH secretion in adults aged 60-81 years for up to two years [27]. Capromorelin also helped improve physical performance in older adults with mild functional decline [27]. These compounds help stimulate the body's natural GH production instead of providing external hormones.
Conclusion
Testosterone and growth hormone both play vital roles for men over 60, though their benefits differ by a lot. Testosterone helps improve sexual function, maintain muscle strength, and support bone density. Growth hormone works better at reducing visceral fat, enhancing skin quality, and improving metabolic parameters.
Men should think about how these hormones work together instead of seeing them as competitors. Research shows that using both hormones together can lead to better improvements in body composition and functional capabilities than using either one alone. This collaborative effort helps address multiple aspects of male andropause and declining testosterone levels.
Natural strategies still hold value whether or not you choose medical treatments. Regular resistance training, quality sleep, balanced nutrition, and specific supplements can boost your body's hormone production even at an advanced age. These lifestyle changes help reduce [age-related muscle loss](https://goldmanlaboratories. and declining bone density.
Your choice between TRT versus natural approaches or growth hormone therapy should be based on your specific needs. Medical intervention might help men who experience strong symptoms of andropause. Those with mild symptoms could get good results just by optimising their lifestyle.
Men should get detailed hormone testing and talk to hormone specialists before starting any therapy. While both hormones naturally decrease with age, replacing them comes with specific benefits and risks that you need to weigh against your health goals and current medical conditions.
Hormonal health is just one part of healthy ageing. In spite of that, learning about what testosterone and growth hormone can do helps men over 60 make smart choices about their hormonal health. This knowledge could lead to a better quality of life in their later years.
Key Takeaways
Understanding the distinct roles of testosterone and growth hormone helps men over 60 make informed decisions about hormone optimisation strategies for maintaining health and vitality.
• Testosterone excels at sexual function and strength: TRT consistently improves libido, muscle strength, and bone density, making it ideal for men prioritising sexual health and physical capabilities.
• Growth hormone targets fat loss and metabolism: HGH reduces visceral fat by 14% and improves skin thickness, making it superior for body composition and metabolic health concerns.
• Combined therapy may offer the best results: Research shows testosterone plus growth hormone produces additive effects on lean mass, fat reduction, and muscle performance beyond either hormone alone.
• Natural strategies remain valuable at any age: Regular resistance training, quality sleep, and proper nutrition can support endogenous hormone production even when pharmaceutical interventions aren't pursued.
• Individual assessment is crucial before treatment: Both hormones carry distinct risks—testosterone may increase cardiovascular events whilst HGH poses cancer concerns—requiring personalised medical evaluation.
The choice between testosterone and growth hormone isn't necessarily either-or. Many men benefit from addressing both declining hormones through targeted therapy or natural optimisation strategies, depending on their specific health goals and risk tolerance.
FAQs
Q1. How do testosterone and growth hormone levels change in men over 60? Both hormones decline with age, but at different rates. Testosterone decreases by about 1% per year after age 30, while growth hormone secretion drops by approximately 15% per decade after age 30.
Q2. What are the main benefits of testosterone therapy for older men? Testosterone therapy can improve lean muscle mass, increase bone density, enhance sexual function and libido, and boost mood and energy levels in men over 60 with clinically low testosterone.
Q3. What unique benefits does growth hormone therapy offer for men over 60? Growth hormone therapy can significantly reduce body fat (especially visceral fat), increase lean body mass, improve skin thickness, and enhance aerobic capacity in older men.
Q4. Are there risks associated with hormone replacement therapies for older men? Yes, there are potential risks. Testosterone therapy may increase the risk of cardiovascular events and polycythemia, while growth hormone therapy can lead to insulin resistance, joint pain, and potentially increased cancer risk.
Q5. Can natural methods help support hormone levels in men over 60? Absolutely. Regular resistance training, quality sleep, balanced nutrition, and certain supplements can help support natural hormone production in older men. These lifestyle modifications can be beneficial whether or not pharmaceutical interventions are pursued.
References
[1] - https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa1506119
[2] - https://dasilvainstitute.com/scientific-hgh-studies/
[3] - https://www.endocrine.org/news-and-advocacy/news-room/2016/testosterone-therapy-improves-sexual-interest-function-in-older-men
[4] - https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/physiology/articles/10.3389/fphys.2018.01878/full
[5] - https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJM199007053230101
[6] - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10515129/
[7] - https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/full/10.1586/eem.09.15
[8] - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3955336/
[9] - https://www.frontiersin.org/journals/physiology/articles/10.3389/fphys.2020.621226/full
[10] - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC2690426/
[11] - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC4312307/
[12] - https://academic.oup.com/ejendo/article/191/1/R22/7698939
[13] - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5433755/
[14] - https://consultqd.clevelandclinic.org/traverse-substudy-links-testosterone-therapy-to-increased-fracture-risk-in-older-men-with-hypogonadism
[15] - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC5649360/
[16] - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35050717/
[17] - https://www.nejm.org/doi/full/10.1056/NEJMoa2308836
[18] - https://www.healio.com/news/endocrinology/20231227/onceweekly-human-gh-increases-total-body-lean-mass-for-adults-with-gh-deficiency
[19] - https://www.news-medical.net/health/Growth-Hormone-Side-Effects.aspx
[20] - https://www.webmd.com/fitness-exercise/human-growth-hormone-hgh
[21] - https://consensus.app/home/blog/human-growth-hormone-hgh-benefits-risks-and-uses/
[22] - https://www.health.harvard.edu/diseases-and-conditions/growth-hormone-athletic-performance-and-ageing
[23] - https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC3940699/
[24] - https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30781278/
[25] - https://academic.oup.com/jcem/article/94/6/1991/2596845
[26] - https://goldmanlaboratories.com/blogs/blog/exercise-testosterone-men-over-60?srsltid=AfmBOopXDUTUyp-K-ZjYXrjUQk1mLdiIM3WkdKw4J1Gvo1WhVmOcdvNN
[27] - https://academic.oup.com/biomedgerontology/article/78/Supplement_1/38/7199286
