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Patterns

Chronic Muscle Tissue Atrophy

Explanation

Skeletal muscle mass is continually regulated through multiple cellular pathways that result in either muscle tissue growth or breakdown. Muscle tissue breakdown, or atrophy, often results in decreases in strength and power. If left unmanaged, long-term tissue breakdown can have detrimental effects not only on strength, but also on other physiological functions throughout the body. (source)

Impact

Muscle mass is essential for movement and metabolism, providing the foundation for generating force during physical tasks. Without sufficient muscle, the body struggles to perform efficiently. Enhancing muscle mass supports metabolism and optimizes physical performance.

Optimization

Supplement with a Quality Protein Source: Protein intake is associated with maintaining muscle mass. (source) Protein ingestion supplies the body with essential amino acids needed for muscle protein synthesis, which leads to increases in muscle mass. (source) Recommendation: Supplement with 20 to 40 g of quality protein with a goal of consuming 0.8 to 1.2 g of protein per pound of bodyweight per day.

Supplement with Creatine: Creatine plays a key role in muscle metabolism. (source) Creatine serves as a quick energy reserve which increases work capacity and facilitates muscle strength and hypertrophy. (source) Recommendation: Supplement with at least 3 g of creatine daily.

Associated Biomarkers