Weight loss is the best source of therapy for people with obesity because it can completely resolve the risk factors for diabetes, coronary artery disease, and obesity-associated cancers
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The potential health benefits of a diet-induced weight loss program is great however it has been shown to be compromised by the loss of lean body mass (muscle), which could increase the risk of low muscle mass and therefore impaired muscle function. Examples include the ability to lift items, walk, and climb stairs
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Muscle plays a huge role in the body’s ability to metabolise protein. Muscle serves as the principal source for amino acids to ensure it can maintain protein synthesis in vital tissues and organs in the absence of amino acid absorption from the gut. If our Gut doesn’t have adequate absorption of amino acids to use throughout the body, muscle is therefore metabolised to close the gap
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Maintenance of the protein content of certain tissues and organs, such as the skin, brain, heart, and liver, is essential for survival
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Protein is used for more than just recovery from workouts!
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Burning off muscle affects you in a bigger way then you think!!!
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In addition, altered muscle metabolism plays a key role in the birth and therefore the prevention of many common conditions and chronic diseases
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Throughout my entire career, the maintenance of adequate muscle mass, strength, and metabolic function has rarely, if ever, been targeted as a recommendation when putting together an individuals nutrition plan
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Why? I feel it’s because of one thing….
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The individual going through their weight loss journey has not been educated by their ‘coach’ on the importance of retaining muscle throughout their weight loss journey
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I truly believe that it’s very important that factors directly related to muscle mass, strength, and metabolic function is included in future studies that are designed to demonstrate optimal lifestyle behaviours throughout a person’s life span, including physical activity and diet
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Look out for my next post where I speak about RESTING ENERGY EXPENDITURE and why it’s so important when looking at a long term weight loss strategy to avoid a huge amount of weight regain once an individual increases their calories post dieting
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Yours in health,
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Coach Anthony Kassis
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