Monitoring insulin sensitivity on a blast - what markers do you track?

[Dutchman]

One thing I do not see discussed enough is insulin sensitivity management during a blast. Particularly on higher test doses with gh. Fasting glucose and HbA1c are the obvious ones but I also look at fasting insulin and HOMA-IR. Anyone else monitoring this closely? Interested in both the bloodwork side and practical interventions - metformin use, berberine, carb timing around training. Will write a longer post if there is interest.

[BERLINER]

Interesting topic. I monitor fasting glucose only currently. What dose of metformin do you find practical? I have read 500mg twice daily but side effects from some seem significant.

[MunichMarc]

I did not know this was something people monitored. Can you explain what HOMA-IR tells you that fasting glucose alone does not? I am still learning about advanced bloodwork and want to understand the difference.

[NYCgains]

Practical question - what do your numbers typically look like when enhanced vs natural? Trying to understand what ranges should prompt concern and when you would actually start metformin or berberine.

[Mick AU]

Practical question - is berberine worth using as an over the counter alternative to metformin for insulin sensitivity? I have seen some claims it is comparable but obviously the evidence base is not the same. Worth it for someone who wants to stay OTC?