Insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1) and its role in bodybuilding

Insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1) is a biologically active protein that is formed in the liver and muscles. He acts as an intermediary of the action of growth hormone.

This factor has many varieties, the best of which is the mechanical growth factor.

I must say that no serious scientific studies on the effect of insulin-like growth factor on the athlete's body have been conducted. However, preparations based on it are very expensive.

Action IGF-1
It has been scientifically proven that the insulin-like growth factor does not in any way affect the increase in the athlete's strength. Its main advantage is that it stimulates hyperplasia of muscle fibers, which is a particularly important effect for mature athletes.

The best actions of this factor are manifested when performing a special training program and a special diet. Optimal multi-rehearsal training with a short rest time between approaches, for example, pumping. With regards to nutrition, a protein diet with a rather large amount of carbohydrates in the diet is needed here.

IGF-1 also has a very useful property - fat burning. In addition, it is capable of smoothing nutritional deficiencies, such as a lack of protein, an excess of carbohydrates or an inadequate calorie intake. Recent scientific tests have shown that insulin-like growth factor has a stronger fat burning effect than artificial growth hormone, which is based on a completely different principle of work. Hence, it can be concluded that combining the course of somatotropin and IGF-1 will make fat burning more effective.

Dosage IGF-1
The optimal dose of insulin-like growth factor is 100 mg per day. Such a volume is ideal for athletes of any level. Higher dosages are not recommended, however, as are low dosages. IGF-1 should be taken only by injection. Local injections can accelerate the growth of specific muscles, and the systemic ones are best used to combat subcutaneous fat.

The recommended number of injections are 2-4 injections per week. Daily tricks are not only irrational, but harmful to the body.

Side effects
The negative effects of IGF-1, oddly enough, result from its advantages. For example, a significant anabolic effect, along with muscle growth, can accelerate the growth of various tumors that are present in the body. And this is the development of serious pathologies.

Another side effect is the effect on the heart. On the one hand, IGF-1 promotes the restoration of the heart muscle. On the other hand, it can lead to an increase in myocardial oxygen demand. Thus, as a minimum, shortness of breath during exercise is assured.

In general, I must say that the influence of insulin-like growth factor on the bodybuilding organism has not yet been fully studied. Therefore, it is too early to talk about concrete results and compatibility with anabolic steroids.