What is the Origin of Nutrient Timing for Hormones?

The practice originates from sports nutrition research focused on maximizing post-exercise recovery and adaptation by controlling postprandial hormone fluxes. It specifically recognizes that the timing of substrate delivery dictates the resulting hormonal cascade.

What is the Mechanism of Nutrient Timing for Hormones?

The mechanism involves leveraging the transient post-exercise state of heightened insulin sensitivity to promote nutrient partitioning toward muscle anabolism, mediated by insulin and IGF-1 signaling. Consuming protein pre-sleep, for instance, can support sustained amino acid availability, optimizing nocturnal GH action and reducing excessive cortisol release during fasting periods.

Nutrient Timing for Hormones ∞ Area

Nutrient Timing for Hormones

Meaning

Nutrient Timing for Hormones describes the strategic scheduling of nutrient intake, particularly protein and carbohydrate consumption, relative to physiological events like exercise or sleep, to optimize the acute and sustained release of anabolic and metabolic hormones. This practice aims to maximize the anabolic window and manage insulin sensitivity effectively. It is a direct application of nutritional endocrinology.