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Substrate Utilization Preference

Meaning

Substrate Utilization Preference refers to the body’s primary reliance on a specific type of metabolic fuel—such as carbohydrates, fats, or proteins—for energy production under various physiological conditions. Metabolic flexibility, the ability to seamlessly switch between these substrates, is a key indicator of metabolic health, often regulated by hormones like insulin, glucagon, and cortisol. In the context of wellness, optimizing this preference toward efficient fat oxidation is often a goal for improving body composition and sustained energy levels. This preference is a direct reflection of cellular energy efficiency.