Anabolism is a natural process in the body to form a substance or molecule. This process allows the body to grow and repair damaged tissue. Well, to understand the process of anabolism further, consider the following explanation.
In the body of living things takes place a biochemical process called metabolism. There are two types of metabolic reactions, namely catabolism and anabolism.
Catabolic reactions aim to break down complex molecules into simpler forms so that the body can use them. In contrast, anabolism aims to form more complex molecules from simpler molecules.
Functions of Anabolic Reactions in the Body
Anabolism allows the body to form or produce new cells and maintain body tissues. This process uses energy generated from catabolic reactions and is assisted by various hormones and enzymes to form and repair cells and tissues.
An example of an anabolic process is the formation and growth of bone and an increase in muscle mass.
The Role of Hormones in Anabolic Reactions
Here are some hormones that play a role in anabolic reactions in the body:
1. Growth hormone
This hormone is produced in the pituitary gland or a small gland at the bottom of the brain and functions to regulate body growth.
Too much growth hormone in childhood can cause a person to grow taller than average, also known as gigantism. However, if there is too little growth hormone, it can lead to less than average height or dwarfism.
2. Insulin-like growth factors (IGF-1 and IGF-2)
This hormone stimulates the production of protein and fat in the body. IGF-I and IGF-2, which work together with growth hormone, play an important role in the growth and development of bones and various body tissues, including the mammary glands.
Insulin-like growth factors It also controls the production of growth hormone by the pituitary gland, as well as blood sugar levels.
3. Insulin
This hormone is produced by the pancreas gland. Insulin is in charge of regulating glucose levels in the blood, helping the body convert the food consumed into energy, and storing energy reserves.
Body cells will not be able to use glucose without insulin. Therefore, the role of this hormone is very important in the body's metabolic processes.
4. Testosterone
Testosterone is a male hormone produced in the testes. This hormone plays a role in the process of sperm formation and the development of male sex characteristics, such as a deeper voice, larger muscles, and the growth of facial and body hair.
Testosterone also plays an important role throughout the body because it affects the function of brain organs, bone and muscle mass, fat distribution, vascular system, energy levels, and sexual organs and functions.
Not only in men, the hormone testosterone is also produced in the female body, but the amount is less. In women, this hormone is produced in the ovaries.
5. Estrogen
Estrogen is a female hormone produced in the ovaries and placenta during pregnancy. The hormone estrogen is responsible for strengthening bone tissue, thickening tissue in the uterus (endometrium), the menstrual cycle, and developing the characteristics of a female body shape, such as breasts.
In small amounts, estrogen is also produced in fat and muscle tissue. It is the main source of estrogen in women who have gone through menopause. Men also produce the hormone estrogen, but in smaller amounts.
The process of anabolism is very important for the body. Without this process, the continuity of growth and cells in the tissues and organs of our body will not occur.
Consult a doctor if you experience symptoms of hormonal disorders so that treatment can be carried out before these conditions affect the anabolic processes in your body.