The size insulin puts on a bodybuilder is not quality size. Muscle growth does occur, especially in the presence of insulin resistance, but fat content is also higher, as is water retention. All fat cells will grow in the presence of insulin, including visceral fat content.30 Bodybuilders can control subcutaneous fat with lipolytic drugs (GH, clenbuterol, etc.) and water retention with diuretics, but visceral fat is very difficult to combat in the setting of insulin resistance. Given the lack of significant additional muscular growth, potential risks and need for additional drugs to counteract the negative effects of insulin, it’s falling out of favor.

A big belly— it has a place in the last trimester of a pregnancy, but not on stage in bodybuilding. The introduction of recombinant human growth hormone and a relative abundance of supply make this the drug of choice to support the anabolic effects of steroids and drop body fat to previously unattainable levels. Unfortunately, the more is better mentality, fueled by the dose-response relationship between GH, IGF-1 and anabolic effects, has lead to an epidemic of as many as three unwanted and dangerous side effects. Chronic overdosing of GH may lead to: 1) growth of the organs of the chest and abdomen causing the “GH gut” look and risking heart failure, 2) facial disfigurement and abnormal growth of the hands, and 3) feet and symptoms of the metabolic syndrome (vascular disease, diabetes and high blood pressure). Adding insulin to the chemical arsenal increases many of these risks, promotes the growth of the visceral (intra-abdominal) fat, increases water retention and exposes bodybuilders to potentially fatal hypoglycemic events.
There really is no place for insulin in a healthy pursuit of bodybuilding. It’s a potent anabolic hormone, but its benefits don’t outweigh the risks and the side effect of fat storage and water retention also need to be addressed. GH is being used with great benefit in a broad range of people, including athletes. Many of its benefits can be experienced using much more moderate doses of one to five IU per day, six days per week.9,18,31-33 It’s important to monitor IGF-1 levels to ensure the body isn’t being overexposed to GH as each person’s need are individualized and may vary over time.32 The benefits of connective tissue healing, fat mobilization and augmenting the anabolic effect of exercise and steroids can be experienced with these lower and more rational doses.9

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