Last month we began our discussion about insulin and discussed its role in carbohydrate and protein metabolism. Now I will discuss how insulin affects fat metabolism and fuel selection, and dietary strategies for optimal insulin control.
While insulin is one of the most important hormones in determining body composition, it is also one of the most misunderstood by bodybuilders. A clear concept of what insulin does, and how to control it, is key to achieving your physique goals. You can think of insulin essentially as a storage hormone, which is released by the pancreas after eating and stimulates cells to absorb and store nutrients from the bloodstream. Insulin is both anabolic and anti-catabolic. The major dilemma is that insulin promotes fat storage as well as muscle growth. You need to have some insulin around in order to grow (and to live for that matter) but too much will lead to excess bodyfat. Control is the key.
