What is an optimal IGF-1 level?
The short answer
Optimal IGF-1 is 120–160 ng/mL, as stated on video.
Most labs call IGF-1 low only under 50. So your report can come back normal at 85 while you sit under the optimal floor.
“showing a U-shaped relationship between igf-1 levels and mortality both very high and very low igf-1 were linked to higher death rates what was the optimal range it was actually around 120 to 160 nanog per milliliter”
What each range means
- under 50 ng/mL Most labs flag this as low
- 50–120 ng/mL Normal on most reports. Below optimal
- 120–160 ng/mL Optimal Dr. Rhonda Patrick · 30:14 →
- 160–300 ng/mL Normal on most reports. Above optimal
- over 300 ng/mL Most labs flag this as high
What IGF-1 measures
The hormone through which growth hormone does most of its work.
It is a steadier readout than growth hormone itself, which pulses through the day.
Checked against MedlinePlus — IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor 1) Test.
Why it matters, on the record
“showing a U-shaped relationship between igf-1 levels and mortality both very high and very low igf-1 were linked to higher death rates what was the optimal range it was actually around 120 to 160 nanog per milliliter”
Common questions
What is an optimal IGF-1 level?
120–160 ng/mL, from a quote on video (Dr. Rhonda Patrick, 30:14).
What is a normal IGF-1 level?
Most US labs print 50–300 ng/mL. Your report grades you against that range. It exists to catch disease, not to describe your best.
What does your IGF-1 number mean?
On a typical lab range, under 50 ng/mL is low, 50 to 300 is normal and over 300 is high. Your own report prints its range next to your number, and that is the one your lab uses. The optimal range on this page comes with the quote behind it.
Is IGF-1 of 85 normal?
A typical lab range calls it normal. On video, the optimal floor is 120 ng/mL (Dr. Rhonda Patrick, 30:14), so by that line it is low.
What does the IGF-1 test measure?
The hormone through which growth hormone does most of its work. It is a steadier readout than growth hormone itself, which pulses through the day.