Hormones
IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor 1)
Unit: ng/mLID: H014
What This Test Measures
Growth hormone mediator; anabolic, longevity marker
Conventional vs. Functional Optimal Range
Conventional "Normal"
100-300 (varies by age) ng/mLYour doctor says you're "fine" anywhere in this range
Functional Optimal
180-250 ng/mLThis is where you actually feel great
The gap between these ranges is why you feel terrible with "normal" labs. Conventional medicine waits for disease. Functional medicine optimizes for health.
Gabriel's Take
IGF-1 reflects growth hormone (GH) status. Low IGF-1 (<150) = GH deficiency → low muscle, high fat, poor recovery, accelerated aging. Functional optimal: mid-to-upper range (180-250). Optimize naturally via sleep, resistance training, fasting.
When This Test Is High
Acromegaly (pituitary tumor), high GH
When This Test Is Low
GH deficiency, malnutrition, aging
Related Conditions
GH deficiency: low muscle, high fat, aging; High: acromegaly
Recommended Follow-Up
If low and symptomatic, consider GH stimulation test; optimize sleep, exercise