What amino acids are used for growth hormone?

December 13, 2025 •

3 min read

A 2022 meta-analysis found that Arginine supplementation alone significantly increased growth hormone (GH) release, though results can vary significantly between individuals and are influenced by numerous factors. Amino acids have long been explored for their role in GH regulation.

Quick Summary

Several amino acids, including Arginine, Lysine, Ornithine, and GABA, are studied for their impact on growth hormone release. While some studies show potential increases, the effects are often variable and depend on factors like dosage, timing, and individual health status.

Key Points

Arginine: This amino acid is believed to increase GH by inhibiting somatostatin, a hormone that suppresses GH release.
Lysine: Often combined with arginine, lysine may act synergistically to boost GH secretion, especially when taken on an empty stomach.
Ornithine: Supplementation with ornithine, particularly after resistance exercise, has been shown to increase GH levels in some studies.
GABA: As an inhibitory neurotransmitter, GABA has been shown to significantly increase resting GH levels and may aid in sleep, a crucial period for GH release.
Oral vs. Intravenous: The route of administration matters significantly; intravenous amino acid administration consistently increases GH, while oral supplementation yields highly variable results.
Lifestyle Impact: Effective amino acid supplementation is dependent on lifestyle factors like adequate sleep, consistent exercise, and managing body fat.

The Mechanism of Amino Acid-Induced Growth Hormone Release

Growth hormone (GH) is a crucial anabolic hormone secreted by the pituitary gland. Its release is regulated by signals from the hypothalamus, including stimulatory GHRH and inhibitory somatostatin. Certain amino acids are believed to influence GH release, primarily by inhibiting somatostatin, thus removing a major restraint on GH production. They may also impact compounds like ghrelin that promote GH secretion.

It's important to note the difference between intravenous and oral administration. Intravenous infusion consistently shows a robust increase in GH. Oral supplementation, however, often yields more variable and less pronounced results due to factors like absorption.

Key Amino Acids for Growth Hormone

Arginine

L-Arginine is a widely studied amino acid for growth hormone release. Its main mechanism is thought to be somatostatin suppression. Studies indicate oral Arginine can increase resting GH levels, especially at doses of 5–9 grams. Taking it on an empty stomach is believed to enhance effects, as protein can blunt its impact. A 2022 meta-analysis confirmed Arginine significantly affected GH release. The impact of Arginine with exercise is debated, with some evidence suggesting it may lessen the GH response compared to exercise alone.

Lysine

L-Lysine is often discussed alongside Arginine concerning GH. Some research, including a study from 1981, found a combination of oral lysine and arginine significantly increased GH in men, suggesting a synergistic effect. This effect was not observed when either amino acid was taken alone. Lysine may also benefit growth in children and adolescents. Some sources recommend taking the combination on an empty stomach before sleep or exercise.

Ornithine

Ornithine is a non-essential amino acid included in some GH-boosting supplements. It's involved in protein synthesis and may influence the ghrelin system, which can stimulate GH. One study found L-ornithine hydrochloride after strength training increased serum GH in untrained young men. However, oral supplementation results can vary based on dosage and individual factors. Its effectiveness might be enhanced when combined with arginine.

GABA (Gamma-Aminobutyric Acid)

GABA is an inhibitory neurotransmitter known to promote relaxation and improve sleep. Since GH is secreted during sleep, this is indirectly beneficial. Direct GABA supplementation has been shown to increase resting GH levels. One study reported a 400% increase in resting GH after a 3-gram dose. The mechanism is being studied but may involve GABA's calming effects and influence on the pituitary gland. GABA may also help increase fat-free mass with resistance training.

Comparison of Growth Hormone-Associated Amino Acids


Feature	Arginine	Lysine	Ornithine	GABA
Proposed Mechanism	Inhibits somatostatin	Synergistic with Arginine	Stimulates ghrelin system	Enhances sleep, stimulates pituitary
Effective Alone?	Yes, but variable results orally	Limited evidence, best with Arginine	Mixed evidence, dependent on dose	Yes, notably increases resting GH
Common Pairing	Lysine, GHRH	Arginine	Arginine	Protein, especially Whey
Effect with Exercise	May attenuate GH response	Variable, may not enhance exercise response	Increased peak GH after training	Increased GH response post-exercise
Consistency of Results	Mixed, especially oral vs. intravenous	Variable depending on pairing	Mixed, dose-dependent, individual variation	Promising, particularly for resting GH

Lifestyle Factors and Amino Acid Efficacy

Amino acid effectiveness is linked to overall health and lifestyle. A holistic approach can significantly impact natural GH production, influencing supplement efficacy. Key factors include:

Adequate Sleep: Most GH is released during deep sleep. 7-9 hours of quality sleep optimizes natural GH secretion.
High-Intensity Exercise: This consistently increases GH levels, often more potently than supplements alone.
Reduced Body Fat: Higher body fat, especially visceral fat, is associated with lower GH production.
Balanced Nutrition: A diet low in refined carbohydrates helps manage insulin. Since insulin can inhibit GH, stable levels support GH function.

Conclusion

Studies show amino acids like Arginine, Lysine, Ornithine, and GABA may influence growth hormone levels. While intravenous administration consistently yields a strong GH response, oral supplementation results are often varied due to dosage, absorption, and individual factors. Arginine and GABA show promising evidence for increasing GH, especially at rest. However, their effectiveness is best seen within a healthy lifestyle including exercise, sleep, and a balanced diet. Supplements are not a replacement for healthy habits and are not a guaranteed solution for significant, sustained GH increases. Consult a healthcare professional for concerns about low GH or supplementation.

A 2022 meta-analysis on Arginine's effect on growth hormone can be found here.

Frequently Asked Questions

Arginine and GABA have some of the most promising research backing their ability to stimulate growth hormone release, particularly in a resting state. Arginine works by inhibiting somatostatin, while GABA appears to directly influence the pituitary gland.

Yes, these amino acids are present in many protein-rich foods, including meat, fish, eggs, and dairy. However, supplementation aims to provide concentrated doses designed to potentially trigger a hormonal response, which is different from a regular dietary intake.

Research provides mixed results. Some studies show that oral Arginine plus exercise may attenuate the GH response compared to exercise alone. In contrast, GABA intake before exercise has been shown to increase the GH response. It's best to follow dosage and timing recommendations for specific supplements.

While some older studies suggested a synergistic effect when Arginine and Lysine were taken together, showing a greater GH release than either alone, other research on oral administration shows variable results.

High oral doses of amino acids like Arginine and Ornithine can cause gastrointestinal issues such as stomach discomfort and diarrhea. GABA is generally safe but can cause drowsiness in some individuals.

Very important. GH is released in pulses during sleep, particularly deep sleep. Obtaining adequate, high-quality sleep is one of the most natural and effective ways to optimize long-term GH production.

Amino acid supplements are not a recognized treatment for clinical growth hormone deficiency (GHD). Diagnosis and treatment for GHD require medical supervision, often involving injectable GH therapy. Supplements should not be used in place of proper medical treatment.