How to Control Your Metabolism by Thyroid & Growth Hormone | Huberman Lab Essentials

About this video

In this Essentials episode, Huberman explains thyroid hormone and growth hormone as the two systems most significant for setting overall metabolism, meaning the use of energy for growth, repair and daily function, with effects on body composition and cognition. Huberman describes the chain from releasing hormone in the hypothalamus to stimulating hormone from the pituitary to the thyroid releasing T4 and the more active T3, which acts on muscle, liver, bone and fat to liberate and convert fuels into energy. He explains that growth hormone release is gated by delta-wave activity in slow-wave sleep, and discusses meditation states that closely mimic slow-wave sleep as one possible route to support it. Huberman says exercise of particular duration and intensity can dramatically increase growth hormone release, and mentions sauna and arginine among other influences, while cautioning that chronically elevated growth hormone from repeated injections can drive growth of tissues including tumours, and that he is not promoting their use.

Key takeaways

• Huberman explains thyroid hormone and growth hormone are the systems most significant for setting metabolism.
• Huberman describes T3 as the more active thyroid hormone acting on muscle, liver, bone and fat.
• Huberman explains delta-wave slow-wave sleep activity gates growth hormone release.
• Huberman says exercise of particular duration and intensity can dramatically increase growth hormone release.
• Huberman cautions chronically elevated growth hormone can drive growth of tissues including tumours.

Episode details: published March 6, 2025 · 184K views · 31:26 long. Summary written by Self Growth Videos from the episode itself. The science and protocols described are Andrew Huberman’s, presented for education — not medical advice. Consult a qualified professional before changing your own health practices.

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