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Hormones

IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor)

IGF-1 is a critical marker for active individuals and active individuals, as it plays a central role in muscle repair, tissue recovery, and training adaptation. Tracking IGF-1 can help optimize your performance strategy.

Doctor's Assessment Included

Reference Ranges

See the value that applies to you:

Choose male or female — this range differs by sex.

Enter your age — this range changes with age.

This range also depends on context such as cycle phase or sample material; the highlighted rows apply to your group.

Male Your group
nmol/l
Low 13 Normal 50 High
Female Your group
nmol/l
Low 13 Normal 50 High

Reference ranges may vary between laboratories. When you order a test, a BIG-registered doctor assesses your personal results in context. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

Check your own value

What It Measures

This test measures the concentration of IGF-1 in your blood. IGF-1 is produced primarily in the liver in response to growth hormone stimulation and mediates many of the growth-promoting effects of growth hormone throughout the body.

Why It Matters

For performance-focused individuals, IGF-1 may influence recovery speed, body composition, and the ability to build and maintain lean mass. Monitoring this marker can support training and nutrition decisions.

When to Test

Testing may be recommended if you experience unexplained changes in body composition, fatigue, or reduced bone density. Your healthcare provider may also suggest testing if a growth hormone disorder is suspected.

Symptoms

Low Levels

Some people may experience fatigue, decreased muscle mass, increased body fat, reduced bone density, or impaired recovery from exercise when IGF-1 levels are low.

High Levels

Elevated IGF-1 levels may be associated with joint pain, swelling, enlarged features, or changes in skin texture. Very high levels could suggest excessive growth hormone production.

Recommendations

Male

If Low

Low IGF-1 may indicate growth hormone deficiency. Consider endocrine evaluation.

If High

Elevated IGF-1 may indicate acromegaly. Consider pituitary MRI and consultation with an endocrinologist.

Female

If Low

Low IGF-1 may indicate growth hormone deficiency. Consider endocrine evaluation.

If High

Elevated IGF-1 may indicate acromegaly. Consider pituitary MRI and consultation with an endocrinologist.

Lifestyle Tips

Adequate sleep, regular physical activity, and balanced nutrition may support healthy IGF-1 levels. Strength training and sufficient protein intake are often associated with optimal growth factor activity. Consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between IGF-1 and growth hormone?
Growth hormone stimulates IGF-1 production in the liver. IGF-1 levels remain more stable throughout the day, making it a more reliable marker of growth hormone activity.
Can lifestyle changes affect IGF-1 levels?
Yes, regular exercise, adequate sleep, and balanced nutrition may help support healthy IGF-1 levels. Consult your healthcare provider for advice.
Why might my doctor test IGF-1?
Your doctor may test IGF-1 to evaluate growth hormone function, investigate unexplained fatigue or body composition changes, or monitor a known pituitary condition.

Tests with related values

These panels measure values from the same category as this marker.

Whoop

A 44-biomarker comprehensive health panel inspired by WHOOP Advanced Labs — a deep look at metabolism, cardiovascular risk, hormones, liver, kidney and inflammation.

SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) LDL Cholesterol Cortisol DHEA-S Estradiol (E2) Free Testosterone FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) LH (Luteinizing Hormone) Total Testosterone Bicarbonate Calcium Chloride Ferritin Iron (Serum) Magnesium Potassium Sodium Transferrin CRP (C-Reactive Protein) Homocysteine Glucose (Fasting) HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin) ApoB (Apolipoprotein B) HDL Cholesterol Omega-3 Index Total Cholesterol Albumin HOMA-IR ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase) AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) Bilirubin (Total) Total Protein Urea (BUN) Creatinine Vitamin D (25-OH) eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate) Insulin (Fasting) Leukocyte Differential Transferrin Saturation Lipoprotein(a) Triglycerides Basic Blood Count
€499,-
Health Checkups

InsideTracker

A 36-biomarker performance and longevity panel inspired by InsideTracker Ultimate — covering heart, hormones, metabolism, inflammation, recovery and iron status.

SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) LDL Cholesterol GGT (Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase) Cortisol DHEA-S Estradiol (E2) Free Testosterone Total Testosterone Folate (Folic Acid) Vitamin B12 Calcium Ferritin Iron (Serum) Magnesium Magnesium (Intracellular) Potassium Progesterone Sodium Transferrin CRP (C-Reactive Protein) Glucose (Fasting) HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin) ApoB (Apolipoprotein B) HDL Cholesterol Total Cholesterol Albumin AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) Vitamin D (25-OH) Insulin (Fasting) Leukocyte Differential Creatine Kinase (CK) Transferrin Saturation Triglycerides Basic Blood Count
€399,-

IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor)

€114,-