When doing some research concerning weight training, I came across some interesting information. Apparently, some hardcore weight training non-diabetics abuse insulin for muscle growth! Obviously, that is horrible and potentially fatal for a non-diabetic, but as a Type 1 diabetic I figured I could use this information to my advantage.
The idea is that post-workout you want an insulin spike to help shuttle more energy into the depleted muscles. The insulin will help to restore muscle glycogen which will promote muscle growth. This is very over-simplified but that is the basic idea. So if you are a Type 1, then after a workout you should load up on carbohydrates and take your usual insulin. Over time this should help you to build muscle faster.
I was wondering if any athletic T1 diabetics out there have ever tried weight training using this post-workout insulin method to promote muscle growth. I know you should eat carbs/protein after a workout anyway, but is anybody testing to see if the amount of insulin post-workout is making any significant difference in muscle growth. Do you use it for weight training? Do you use it for cardiovascular training? Did you see any noticeable difference switching to this post-workout insulin spike method from your previous routine? How many grams of carbs do you typically eat in your post-workout meal? Along with your workout routine, are you currently on any special diet such as low-carb/high protein, vegetarian, vegan or otherwise?
NOTE: I currently work out around 5 days a week. Any strength training I do is geared to improve my weekend rock climbing. This means I focus on back, shoulder and forearm activities. My goal is not necessarily to build big muscle, but durable lean muscle which can withstand hours of hanging by your fingers.