Using protein for energy

emmab0902 · January 2012

I have recently made more effort to up my protein to a good amount, and in doing so this has resulted in less carbs. Without getting into a debate on the merits of carbs, my question is this: how does the body use protein for energy? Is it as readily available and accessible for energy during exercise (such as longish hill walks) or does reduced carb intake lead to less energy available for the body to use easily?

sarahgilmore · January 2012

I'm not 100% sure but I think it's the latter.

I think, though, that a good amount of protein will help encourage the use of fat for energy rather than muscle, which is good.

I'm sure someone more knowledgeable will have more insight.

suzzann666 · January 2012

from what i learned in biochemistry last semester, your body will first burn carbs (glucose) for energy. next, it will move on to fat (including stored body fat(yay!).) and last it will burn protein (not really a good thing) as a last resort for energy needed.

so if i have this right, taking in more protein and less carbs will make your body utilize fat for energy.

comments welcome; i always up for a good nutrition/chemistry lesson.

Tkwild · January 2012

(From experience) Less carbs means less immediately available energy. I always feel like where carby people eventually "hit the wall" when they run out of carb energy, low-carbers start at the wall. You get used to that, and then your stamina tends to wind up better

love22step · January 2012

We need both. I know protein is necessary for building muscle, which is one of my objectives. I try to stay under my carbohydrate number, but I usually go a little above my protein number. Though I'm still losing weight, I want to make sure I still have the nutrients I need to gain muscle. So far, the plan is working.

Using protein for energy

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