How many carbs do you need to help build muscle?

[krk]

Bit of a newbie here, so excuse an uneducated question...

my understanding is insulin is needed to help muscles get the protein and other various things they need to grow, however insulin is produced as a response to blood sugar (carbohydrates). are you actually hurting yourself if you eat boatloads of calories, but very few carbs?

 

[Kabeetz]

The best baseline to start from is 40% protein/30% carbs/30% fat. You can then adjust accordingly to what works for your body and your goals.

A no-carb/low-carb diet is counterintuitive for purposes of advancing strength, hypertrophy and athleticism. You need energy and fuel.

 

[javaguru]

I never go below 1g CHO per pound of bodyweight. Consuming a protein/carb drink immediately before/during your workout and immediately after is advantageous to recovery.