Tag: Muscle

Approximately 95% of the body's creatine is stored in skeletal muscle, not the liver. While most of it isn't stored there, the liver plays a critical and central role in creatine metabolism, particularly in its production. Understanding this distinction is key to grasping how your body processes this popular supplement.

According to research, protein provides 4 calories per gram, the same as carbohydrates, but is not the body's preferred or most efficient source of energy. While it primarily functions as a building block for tissues, the body can and will use protein as a source of fuel under specific circumstances.

Did you know that nearly 100% of the creatine you consume is absorbed directly into your bloodstream, not broken down through digestion? This fact is key to understanding how the body utilizes creatine for energy and performance, a process that is highly efficient.

Research suggests that consuming 15-30 grams of protein at each meal is a general recommendation for optimal health. However, whether 15g of protein is good for breakfast depends on individual health goals, body weight, and activity level.

Creatine is a widely studied supplement in sports nutrition, recognized for its potential to support athletic performance. It plays a role in energy production, particularly during high-intensity, short-duration activities. For athletes considering creatine, understanding general intake strategies is key.

An estimated three-quarters of the body's total glycogen is stored in the muscles. This molecule is the primary way the body stores sugar, providing a readily available fuel source for cells. The process is a critical part of how our bodies manage energy levels.

Creatine is an amino acid stored primarily in your muscles, playing a crucial role in energy production, but the vast majority of studies on its regulation focus on high-intensity activities. This leads many to wonder if simpler, low-intensity exercise like walking can also influence its levels.

Branched-chain amino acids (BCAAs) are unique among essential amino acids because they largely bypass first-pass liver metabolism and are primarily processed in peripheral tissues, a key distinction that impacts athletic performance and health. Understanding where BCAAs are metabolized is essential for optimizing muscle recovery, energy balance, and overall wellness.

Glycogen is a multibranched polysaccharide of glucose that serves as the primary form of energy storage in animals, fungi, and bacteria. It is crucial for maintaining blood sugar levels and providing rapid fuel for physical activity.

Studies have long explored the optimal timing for protein consumption to enhance athletic performance and recovery, with the 'anabolic window' being a key area of research. So, should I drink protein before sports to maximize my gains?