I’ve posted two interviews with Dr. Eric Serrano in the past, and not too long ago, I found a third one on my hard drive that had gone missing. It’s time to open the vault!
Increasing Growth Hormone (GH) Naturally
JP: Many people are looking for ways to naturally increase growth hormone (GH) levels. Any suggestions? Is there a benefit to taking GH injections, or is the transient effect not worth the cost?
Dr. Serrano: Many people use GH for anti-aging purposes, but recent research on rats shows that GH actually increases mortality and severely reduces lifespan! GH also has 22 different isomers, each affecting the body in unique ways—some promote weight loss, others enlarge the heart, and some may even activate cancer. The real question is, which one do you need, and which one are you getting?
A great way to boost GH naturally is to take 10 grams of free-form amino acids about 30 minutes before weight training. Research shows this can increase GH levels tenfold!
Arginine is another option. The arginine test is actually used to measure GH—10-15 grams via IV should boost levels, but orally, you’ll need at least 8 grams in one dose on an empty stomach, either at night or before training. Be aware, though, that high doses can cause nausea.
Glutamine has also been shown to increase GH and even protect brain tissue. However, the gut absorbs much of it before it reaches circulation. If you take 5 grams, your system may only absorb 1 gram. To get the full benefit, you’ll need at least 10 grams. Glutamine peptides may be a better option for overall health benefits.
GH injections require at least six weeks to show results. They can help with fat loss over a three-month period, but the dose must be appropriate, depending on body size and age.
Lowering Estrogen Levels
JP: How can you naturally decrease estrogen levels?
Dr. Serrano: Humanofort can help lower both cortisol and estrogen. Indole-3-carbinol also reduces estrogen and may help prevent cervical cancer. Dosages can range from 300 mg to 1.2 grams daily. DIM is another effective compound, but you need higher doses than typically recommended—300-600 mg per day. Panax ginseng has also shown some anti-estrogen properties.
Issues with Herbal Supplements
JP: What are some problems with herbal supplements today?
Dr. Serrano: A study analyzed two separate lots of 10 top weight loss supplements and found major differences between them! Some key concerns include:
- Variability from lot to lot
- Whether the product contains the true active ingredient
- The processing methods used to create the final product
Vitamin C and Performance
JP: You’ve mentioned that high-dose intravenous (IV) vitamin C benefits the liver. What else would you include in a performance-enhancing IV cocktail? How much vitamin C is really necessary daily? While large doses may lower cortisol, won’t they also increase iron levels, which could be harmful for men?
Dr. Serrano: IV glutathione is another great option, but it should not be administered with vitamin C—do the C first, then add glutathione afterward.
The Myers’ cocktail is a well-known IV formula containing high levels of B vitamins, particularly thiamine. Injecting thiamine about four weeks before an endurance event can enhance performance.
For the average person who doesn’t take great care of their health, these IV treatments can help prevent future problems. However, if someone already eats well and takes proper supplements, the benefits may not justify the cost.
A daily vitamin C intake of 1.5 to 3 grams is ideal. It’s true that taking vitamin C with iron enhances absorption, so men with high iron levels should be cautious.
The Fluoride Debate
JP: Are we getting too much fluoride from drinking water, toothpaste, and bathing water? Should we switch to fluoride-free toothpaste, even for kids? Do we need water filters to remove fluoride, chlorine, and other chemicals?
Dr. Serrano: Yes, we’re exposed to excessive fluoride, and it’s best to reduce it. Use fluoride-free toothpaste—even for kids. The fear-mongering about cavities without fluoride is misleading!
Filtering water with reverse osmosis is a smart choice. Chlorine exposure isn’t a major concern unless you swim regularly in chlorinated pools.
As for distilled water, there’s a myth that it leaches minerals from the body. If you eat a balanced diet and take a multivitamin/mineral supplement, this shouldn’t be a concern. The kidneys regulate water balance efficiently.
In Part 2, we’ll discuss supplement periodization, how race affects nutrition, and Dr. Serrano’s thoughts on coconut oil. Stay tuned!
