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Catabolic States

Meaning

Catabolic States describe a pervasive physiological condition where the rate of cellular breakdown and tissue degradation significantly exceeds the rate of anabolic, or tissue-building, processes. This imbalance results in a net negative energy and nitrogen balance, leading to the mobilization of stored substrates, such as muscle protein and fat, for energy production. Clinically, prolonged catabolism is associated with sarcopenia, immune dysfunction, chronic stress, and a general decline in physical and metabolic resilience. Identifying and reversing these states is a priority in longevity medicine.