Preserve muscles while fasting?
1 min read
Asked by: Deborah Taylor
Most scientists agree that, at a minimum, it’s possible to maintain muscle mass while fasting. You don’t need to burn muscle instead of fat, nor will your body automatically burn muscle while fasting. It’s possible to lose a bit of muscle mass when you fast, as you also lose water weight and visceral fat.
Does intermittent fasting affect muscle recovery?
Exercising during intermittent fasting is a healthy way for you to burn more fat and build muscle. As you fast, your body produces more human growth hormone (HGH) and testosterone while battling insulin resistance. Together, this recipe helps you build more muscle, recover faster, and maintain your gains.
How do I prevent muscle loss during intermittent fasting?
Overall, performing exercise is highly recommended for maintaining muscle during intermittent fasting ( 8 , 16 ). Summary Weight training during intermittent fasting may help you maintain muscle, even when losing fat. Other forms of exercise, such as using a stationary bike or elliptical, may also be beneficial.
Do you lose muscle or fat when fasting?
When you’re fasting, your body loses weight from muscle and fat. During the first few hours of a fast, your body gets its fuel from glycogen stores in your liver and muscles; the glycogen is broken down into glucose.
