Hi Jordan,
Currently reading my exercise physiology textbook and I read a section that described carbohydrates as being a “protein sparer” in that, while consumed in adequate amounts, prevents muscle tissue from being broken down into amino acids and subsequently converted to glucose via gluconeogenesis.
It goes on to mention that during periods of dietary restriction and/or prolonged exercise/repeated bouts of intense exercise, glycogen stores are reduced and gluconeogenesis occurs to increase carb availability and maintain plasma blood glucose levels.
That got me to wondering, “Is this why it is advised to increase dietary protein intake during periods of weight loss?” It would stand to make sense that reducing one’s calorie intake and subsequently carbohydrate intake would leave the body in search of a source to replace the missing carbs it expects of its usual diet. Does the increased protein intake recommendation have something to do with ensuring there is enough protein on board to maintain, repair, and replace the muscle tissue during a caloric deficit when the body is converting amino acids to glucose?
Thanks for your time, I hope all is well today!