Muscle Building and Insulin Like Growth Factor 1

Insulin like growth factor 1 has managed to capture the attention of scientists and hormone replacement therapists for its potential in correcting birth defects and reversing the effects of degenerative diseases. However, the hormone is also making waves in the world of body building. Several professional body builders have reported having massive increments in muscle mass. Some have reported up to 20 pound magnifications in muscle mass after commencement of taking insulin like growth factor 1.
These claims resulted in health and drug companies investing heavily in research relating to insulin like growth factor 1 and its functions in muscle growth. Several products approved by the FDA are now in circulation. But exactly how does insulin growth factor 1 enhance muscle building?
Insulin like growth factor 1 is a naturally occurring hormone in the body. It is produced primarily by the liver in response to the presence of human growth hormone in the blood. Insulin like growth factor 1 is protein in nature and bares a similar molecular structure as insulin, thus the name ‘insulin like'. Insulin like growth factor 1 also bares similar characteristics as insulin but has different functions in the body.
The major and most important function of insulin like growth factor 1 is cell proliferation. This function results in the growth and development of tissues and organs within the body. This function is crucial for maximal growth of the body in children. In adults, insulin like growth factor 1's effect is primarily seen in the proliferation of nerve cells and muscle cells.
Insulin like growth factor 1 stimulates the formation and growth of muscular tissue in adults. Insulin like growth factor 1 has been proven to increase lean muscle mass within the body. This is in line with the claims of bodybuilders using the supplement for the increase of muscle mass.
There are several other benefits of using insulin like growth factor 1 as a supplement for muscle building. The muscles developed when the levels of insulin like growth factor 1 are high have been shown to be stronger and healthier. The hormone has also been shown to increase the rate of healing and repair in muscles that have been damaged as a result of injury or strain. The hormone also stimulates the metabolism of fats in the body thus decreases the percentage of fat in the body which is a plus in body building.
insulin like growth factor 1


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