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Metabolic Threshold Shifting

Meaning

Metabolic Threshold Shifting describes the physiological adaptation process where the body’s preferred fuel source for energy generation is deliberately changed, often moving from a carbohydrate-dominant to a fat-dominant utilization state. This clinical objective involves increasing the efficiency and overall capacity of mitochondria to oxidize fatty acids, thereby lowering the intensity point at which the body switches to glucose or lactate for fuel during exercise or fasting. A successful shift is characterized by enhanced metabolic flexibility, improved physical endurance, and a greater capacity to access stored body fat for energy. This is a key hallmark of robust metabolic health.