Protein, muscle mass, falls and recovery.

[Out of Steam]

Yes, its truly amazing how fast one can lose muscle mass. Of course, this comes as no surprise to anyone who has had their entire leg in a cast for any length of time.

I remember this from childhood, and my leg cast ended below the knee.

 

[Chuckanut]

Yes, its truly amazing how fast one can lose muscle mass. Of course, this comes as no surprise to anyone who has had their entire leg in a cast for any length of time.

It turns out this is one way they studied muscle mass loss in humans. Take a group of healthy people, put one leg of each in a cast for one week. Measure the difference in muscle mass between the persons two legs when the cast comes off. The loss was significant.

 

[ERhoosier]

Have not followed him in the past, but as an endurance athlete and recently retired health professional I found Dr. Attia's interview with Dr. van Loon (linked by Chucknut) both interesting and well-balanced. And generally consistent with my readings of the related medical/physiological academic literature. No heavy pushing of supplements or 'fad' diets but detailed explanations of actual data on muscle metabolism in response to exercise and the LACK thereof. Especially the increased importance of exercise (inc resistance training) and increased protein intake as we age. Great to hear him say that even 'old people muscles' can still respond positively to exercise and protein intake! But, as always, YMMV. Personally I cannot take in more than about 15g of protein shake after a workout without getting some GI distress so I also appreciated Dr. van Loon's comments that protein intake over the next many hours was just as beneficial over the course of days/weeks of an exercise program.
And of course- those with specific health issues (kidney, liver, heart, etc.) should always check with their doctor prior to making major changes in their diet, exercise, etc.

 

[euro]

I think Attia has backed off some of his previous zeal for fasting and timed eating. That’s been my impression for the past year or so. I think it has to do with the body not being able to adequately absorb all the nutrients in food in such a short time. Amazing as they are our bodies make a lot of trade offs when it comes to nutrition and health habits. I could be wrong.

Yes, this is correct. He used to do 7 days straight fasting each month and has largely abandoned that. In fact, that's one of the things I like about Attia. He is open to change or adjust his mind when new data presents itself and doesn't just hold on to one set of beliefs come hell or high water.