Friday, March 27, 2009

Insulin & the bodybuilder Part 6

Injection site

Insulin may be injected under the skin on the arm, thigh, buttocks or abdomen.
It should not be injected into the muscles because of faster absorption. Intravenous insulin preparations are available and are only for use in a hospital setting. Intravenous insulin injection at home can be lethal. It should never ever be done. The injection sites should be rotated to prevent formation of lumps (fat deposits at the site).

Insulin is most rapidly absorbed when injected under the skin in the abdomen, followed by the arms, thighs, and buttocks. Exercise increases the rate of absorption from injection sites, probably by increasing blood flow to the skin and perhaps also by local actions.

Areas of fatty deposits can also slow absorption. The rate of absorption also differs between subcutaneous and intramuscular sites. The latter is faster but not recommended for routine use because the absorption can be unpredictable. Intramuscular injections are generally given in emergency scenarios when a patient needs urgent insulin.
Self-monitoring

Insulin is a very dangerous hormone when it is used in normal people. The only way to avoid lethal complications is to monitor the blood sugars. There are many home-based kits, which can be used to monitor blood glucose. For all bodybuilders who abuse insulin; this is a must, plus having a bottle of orange juice. Further the blood glucose should be monitored 2-3 times a day to ensure that the levels of glucose are safe.

For those who decide to take insulin, it is essential to eat a diet rich in carbohydrates. This will help maintain normal glucose levels despite the insulin injections.

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