What is IGF-1(Insulin-like Growth Factor 1)? What is IGF-1 used for? How does IGF-1 help Bodybuilders and athletes?

What is IGF-1(Insulin-like Growth Factor 1)? What is IGF-1 used for? How does IGF-1 help Bodybuilders and athletes?

IGF-1(Insulin-like Growth Factor 1), or Somatomedin C, is a natural protein hormone similar in structure to Insulin. It plays an vital role in Growth in humans during childhood and continues to have anabolic effects in adults. IGF-1 is actually synthezised by the Liver, and produced as a result of Growth Hormone(Somatotrophin) that is secreted by the pituitary gland. IGF-1 influences the growth of long bones in our body during pubertal growth spurts and is known to stimulate growth of cartilage even after growth plate fusion

IGF-1 levels vary among people based on Age, sex, race, nutrition, BMI(Body mass Index), Exercise status, extrogen status etc. IGF-1 has been manufactured organically on a large scale using Yeast and E.Coli

During Adulthood, IGF-1 plays a different role compared to the growth promoting role in teenagers. IGF-1 increases stamina and vitality, improves the immune system, helps in burning Fat and in attaining a lean muscle mass. If is for this reason that IGF-1 has become popular among athletes and bodybuilders. Bodybuilders are continually using IGF-1 as a supplement to improve quality of muscles and increase muscle mass, while reducing Fat content at the same time. This makes IGF-1 a great supplement indeed. IGF-1 also provides benefits such as nourishing the skin, improving vitality and enhancing sexual function.

IGF-1 is also used for screening Growth hormone deficiencies and used in conjuction with Human Growth Hormone(HGH) to cure Growth hormone disorders in people. It is also used in conjunction with HGH to cure stunted growth problems in children.

IGF-1 supplements are available as Pills, Oral Sprays and injections. However, Oral sprays and injections are considered effective than pills. The ideal recommended dosage of IGF-1 is between 20mcg to 120 mcg per day. The most effective length for dosage is 50 days on and 20-40 days off. The best time for dosage is either in the morning or immediately after weight training (if used for body building).

However, IGF-1 has been under controversy due to the fact that it can help growth of Cancer Cells in humans. Since the IGF-1 signalling pathway plays an important role in the growth of Cancer cells with the corresponding receptor organ cells, IGF-1 has come under the scanner quite a number of times. However, the FDA(Food and Drug Association) has approved IGF-1 to be a safe supplement for athletes and bodybuilders