The market for anti-aging supplements is vast, with many products promising to restore youthful vitality. Among these is SeroVital, a dietary supplement marketed as an "HGH-boosting" formula. SeroVital claims to support natural hGH production, which plays a crucial role in the body’s ability to stay young and healthy on a biological level. Human growth hormone (hGH) is best known for influencing bone and muscle growth, as well as body composition, but the use of recombinant hGH is controversial.
This article aims to provide a comprehensive overview of SeroVital, its ingredients, the scientific evidence supporting its claims, and potential benefits and risks associated with its use, particularly in the context of weight loss.
What is SeroVital?
SeroVital is an orally-administered amino acid supplement that promotes hGH secretion via suppression of somatostatin. It is a patented amino‑acid supplement marketed as an “HGH‑boosting” formula. It does not contain human growth hormone (HGH). Its proprietary 2.9 g blend per 4‑capsule serving includes L‑lysine HCl, L‑arginine HCl, oxo‑proline (pyroglutamate), N‑acetyl L‑cysteine, and L‑glutamine. It also contains schizonepeta powder - a traditional East Asian botanical herb (Schizonepeta tenuifolia).
The supplement is available for $99 for a 30-day supply at SeroVital.com and key retailers. The manufacturer directs customers to take 4 capsules on an empty stomach and told not to eat for two hours before or after taking it. Adults take 1 white tablet and 1 red tablet together in the morning daily with food. The 4 yellow Renewal Complex capsules should be taken with water on an empty stomach. Do not eat or drink anything except water (including the red and white tablets) 2 hours before or after taking the yellow capsules.
The packaging claims that HGH is associated with increased energy, decreased body fat, reduced fine lines and wrinkles, and deeper, more restorative sleep.
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Key Ingredients and Their Purported Benefits
SeroVital contains a blend of ingredients, each with a specific purpose:
- Renewal Complex: This is a clinically validated blend that boosts HGH naturally.
- Ceramides, hyaluronic acid, collagen peptides, and keratin peptides: These ingredients are included to transform your skin.
- Coffee bean extract: This extract helps increase energy, improve mood, and enhance focus.
- The LipoValin compound with Smart Release Technology: This compound is designed for all-day action to help control cravings and support weight loss.
The supplement also contains a blend of vitamins and minerals, including Vitamin C, Vitamin D, Riboflavin, Zinc, Selenium, and Copper. Additionally, it includes a Proprietary Blend with ingredients like Chlorella, Lady's Mantle Extract, Olive Leaf Extract, Cumin Seed Extract, Wild Mint Leaf Extract, Smart Release Purified Japanese Glucomannan, Triticum Aestivum Seed Extract, Collagen Peptides, Keratin Peptides, and Hyaluronic Acid.
Scientific Studies and Evidence
Several studies have investigated the effects of SeroVital on hGH levels and related health outcomes.
Single-Dose Study
One randomized, placebo-controlled, double-blind, crossover study included 16 healthy participants. All participants received both placebo and the amino acid supplement after an overnight fast and completed all study visits. The primary outcomes were the percent change in hGH from baseline to 120 minutes and the area under the curve of hGH over baseline. At 120 minutes, hGH levels increased by 682% (8-fold) from baseline and were significantly higher than placebo (P = 0.01). In addition, a significantly higher mean area under the curve was observed for the amino acid supplement compared with the placebo [20.4 (95% confidence interval, 19.9-21.0 ng/mL) vs.
24-Week Study on Individuals with Low-Normal hGH
A more extensive study was conducted over 24 weeks with 45 adults who had low-normal hGH production as they were being treated for fibromyalgia. The study investigated if daily administration of SeroVital would increase levels of endogenous IGF-1, a primary mediator of the effects of hGH, and improve symptoms related to low-to-normal hGH production. The primary endpoint was the change from baseline to endpoint (Week 24) in serum IGF-1. Additional endpoints included the change in body weight, clinical symptoms, fasting cardiometabolic markers, tolerability, and safety.
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The results indicated a statistically significant increase in serum IGF-1 levels at Week 12 that was sustained to endpoint, resulting in a mean±SE Week 24 change of 32.1±2.8 ng/mL (paired t-test p<0.001). There was a steady reduction in body weight that resulted in Week 24 mean±SE change of -6.4±0.4 kg (p<0.001). Statistically significant improvements from baseline were also observed for systolic and diastolic blood pressure, HbA1c, LDL and HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides (all p<0.001). The supplement was well tolerated; no adverse events were reported.
Presentation at ENDO 2019
The results of the 24-week study were presented at the Endocrine Society's annual conference, ENDO 2019. The study, led by Dr. Susan Pekarovics, highlighted that subjects' mean IGF-1 levels increased from baseline through Week 12 and remained elevated from baseline for the remainder of the study. In addition, the subjects experienced improvements in body weight, perceived stress, clinical symptoms, and fasting cardiometabolic markers.
Potential Benefits of SeroVital
Based on the ingredients and studies, SeroVital is marketed as providing several potential benefits:
- Increased energy
- Deeper, more restful sleep
- Improved mood
- Increased skin hydration & elasticity
- Fewer cravings
- Weight loss
- Improvements in cardiometabolic markers
Potential Risks and Side Effects
While SeroVital is generally considered safe, some users have reported side effects, including:
- Swelling of hands and feet
- Bloating
- Acne
- Vertigo
- Headaches
- Achy joints
- Nausea
- Abdominal cramps
- Weight gain
- Heartburn
- Fatigue
- A possible exacerbation of breast cancer
It's important to note that individual results will vary. Additionally, it's crucial to consult with a healthcare professional before starting any new supplement, especially if you have existing health conditions or are taking prescription medications.
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Addressing Skepticism and Misconceptions
Despite the claims and some positive study results, there is skepticism surrounding SeroVital and similar HGH-boosting supplements.
- The "Youth Hormone" Myth: Human growth hormone has been dubbed the "Youth Hormone," but raising levels may not always be beneficial. Women with high levels of HGH are more likely to get breast cancer, and men with high levels are more likely to develop prostate cancer.
- Lack of Strong Evidence: There’s no strong evidence that oral GH‑boosting amino‑acid blends enhance fat loss or muscle gain beyond a solid training and nutrition plan.
- Limited Long-Term Data: The published RCT measured blood GH at 2 hours-not long‑term outcomes.
- Cost: SeroVital costs $99 a month, which can be a significant expense.
Alternative Approaches to Weight Loss and Healthy Aging
While SeroVital may offer some benefits, it's essential to consider alternative and complementary approaches to weight loss and healthy aging:
- Balanced Diet: Focus on a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains.
- Regular Exercise: Incorporate both cardiovascular exercise and strength training into your routine.
- Adequate Sleep: Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep per night.
- Stress Management: Practice relaxation techniques like meditation or yoga.