Question
Under which circumstances are proteins utilized as energy substrates.
Answer
1. Extreme Caloric Deficiency: In cases of severe calorie restriction, such as during periods of starvation or extreme dieting, the body may start breaking down muscle tissue to extract amino acids (the building blocks of proteins) for energy. This is not an efficient process and can lead to muscle wasting.
2. Extended Endurance Exercise: During prolonged endurance exercises, like ultra-marathons or long-distance cycling, the body may start to break down muscle proteins for energy, especially when carbohydrate stores are depleted. This can contribute to fatigue and muscle damage.
3. Malnutrition / Extreme Starvation: In cases of severe malnutrition, where both carbohydrate and fat stores are significantly depleted, the body might rely more on protein breakdown for energy.
2. Extended Endurance Exercise: During prolonged endurance exercises, like ultra-marathons or long-distance cycling, the body may start to break down muscle proteins for energy, especially when carbohydrate stores are depleted. This can contribute to fatigue and muscle damage.
3. Malnutrition / Extreme Starvation: In cases of severe malnutrition, where both carbohydrate and fat stores are significantly depleted, the body might rely more on protein breakdown for energy.
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