Hormonal
Infusion of beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) decreases whole-body leucine oxidation and increases fractional mixed skeletal muscle protein synthesis in humans without altering total protein breakdown (leucine flux).
Infusing beta-hydroxybutyrate (a ketone body) reduces the amount of amino acids your body burns for energy and directs more of them into building muscle protein. This happens without changing how much muscle tissue is broken down overall. The effect is specific to the ketone itself, not just the alkalinity of the blood, suggesting that elevated ketones naturally help preserve muscle mass during metabolic stress.
We conclude that beta-OHB decreases leucine oxidation and promotes protein synthesis in human beings.
Why this rating
Randomized controlled trial with rigorous isotope tracer methodology and control for pH effects.
Source
Effect of beta-hydroxybutyrate on whole-body leucine kinetics and fractional mixed skeletal muscle protein synthesis in humans.
K. Sreekumaran Nair et al. · Journal of Clinical Investigation · 1988
DOI 10.1172/jci113570
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