Nutrient Partitioning describes the physiological allocation of ingested energy substrates—carbohydrates, fats, and proteins—between lean tissue accretion (muscle, organs) and adipose tissue storage. Optimizing this process is central to achieving favorable body composition changes, even without drastic caloric restriction. It is the body’s prioritization system for fuel use.
Origin
This concept emerged from metabolic research aiming to understand why certain dietary patterns preferentially lead to muscle gain versus fat gain in different physiological states. It quantifies the differential fate of absorbed calories.
Mechanism
Hormonal signaling dictates nutrient partitioning; insulin, for instance, promotes glucose uptake into muscle cells or adipocytes, while anabolic hormones like growth hormone direct substrates toward lean mass synthesis. Therefore, effective management of the endocrine environment directly controls where consumed calories are directed within the body compartments.
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