Good post, I look forward to reading that book.

I know I’ve asked you this before but my tiny brain can’t remember the answer. AS’s impact people different, meaning some people have an insulin response and others don’t. How can you tell other than tests? Any methods you would recommend just on a purely observational basis? I don’t feel like AS’s do but that doesn’t mean I’m not being affected. I could black box it, but I just can’t stomach coffee without it!

A side note on Stevia…What are your thoughts about the study that indicated energy metabolism disruption in rats? And the reproductive thing?

Allen-
This study from Circulation seems to indicate AS’s are as bad as the full sugar versions of sodas regarding insulin resistance and the development of an ath blood profile. There is likely a dose response issue here and if one is generally insulin sensitive it likely buys a bit of lee-way with regards to AS’s and the net effect on insulin status. I’m not familiar with the stevia info, however insulin resistance deranges energy metabolism on a systemic level so that may be what is happening here.
Robb

Thanks EC!
Robb

Isn’t also one the biggest issue when it comes to insulin and fat storage the inverse relationship it has with fat burning hormones such as glucagon and growth hormone? If one has insulin resistance then the body pumps out more insulin to deal with the high blood sugar levels therefore shutting down fat burning hormones GH and glucagon. Usually right after exercise that increases insulin sensitivity fat storage is not an issue because that glucose is shuttles into the muscle cells, wheras other times with low sensitivity and high insulin fat cells are the storage house.

Mike-
Yep, this is how things like artificial sweeteners can cause havoc with fat loss. AS’s still release insulin and this shuts down lipolysis. I love the solution offered by the ADA/AMA: a 60% carb diet to keep blood glucose levels “constant”.
Robb

I too have wondered if there is a hargainer-insulin resistance connection. I think far too little attention has been paid to this issue. After all, if a hardgainer is taking in extra calories, and they aren’t being directed to muscle, then where are they going? The insulin is most likely diverting them to fat. So eating more carbs, or just eating more in general isn’t going to solve the problem and create any muscle.

Matt-
Exactly, and this is the counter intuitive element of intermittent fasting. If insulin sensitivity is improved nutrient partitioning appears to improve. If you have ever read the low-carb round table at T-bag Charles Poliquin posits that insulin sensitivity is more important than anabolic hormone status for muscle gain. Interesting stuff for sure!
Robb

Brad