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Catabolic Stress States

Meaning

Physiological conditions characterized by a sustained and dominant metabolic drive towards the breakdown of complex molecules, such as proteins and fats, into simpler energy substrates. These states are primarily driven by chronic activation of the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis and the resultant excessive or prolonged exposure to glucocorticoids like cortisol. Unchecked catabolic stress leads to loss of muscle mass, impaired immune function, and compromised tissue repair.