Protein Cycling

(Leanne Scott) #1

Hello all! I am new to KF and am enjoying the resource immensely! I recently came across an article regarding protein cycling for stimulating growth hormone and wondered if anyone had any thoughts on this? There’s not much helpful information out there - most of what I can find is on body building forums but I’m more interested in the physiology and health benefits.

#2

I’m not aware of protein cycling for stimulating growth hormone.

However, I am aware of fasting for stimulating growth hormone.

(Leanne Scott) #4
(Leanne Scott) #5

Thank you Fiorella, I’ve attached the article below.

(Leanne Scott) #6

Thank you CanKeto, I’ve attached the article below.

#7

Since they are recommending dropping protein low (20-30g) to encourage catabolism of excess aminos, it seems a bit like feasting/fasting cycles in that regard. BUT they recommend replacing a lot of the protein with carbs, so I’m guessing this is not going to work well if you are keto. Depending on tolerance of course.

Still looking for a link to any actual science behind the HGH claims…

update:
So, one reference is a text book, without page number
Another reference seems incorrect at best.

There’s a refutation of some points by Lyle McDonald here: (not that Iendorse him, but he did look into it)

(Leanne Scott) #8

That was a lively reply from Lyle MCDonald! I agree that reduction in protein for 4 weeks seems excessive but what about shorter periods of time and instead of increased carbohydrates, fats were utilised. I wondered if it would mimic the benefits of fasting without being a total fat fast?

#9

I employ a similar strategy when I fast. I started with fat-fasting. No carbs, no protein. Over time, I’ve been able to progress to doing a water fast for several days, then add fat back in if I see signs of a slowing metabolism. Eventually I will start craving protein and that’s when I end the fast.
Feasting before and after is also important.

As to keeping some protein, I’m not sure how that would effect the HGH. It would alter the insulin and autophagy side of the process.

(Leanne Scott) #10

Thank you Carol, I agree and use a similar strategy. I particularly find fat fasting very helpful in the luteal phase of my menstrual cycle. I had noted that in that time period I found it very difficult to do an extended fast for autophagy. When I tracked my blood sugar & ketones I discovered during that time my fasting blood sugar was creeping up and ketones were starting to drop with no dietary changes. I found fat fasting to be extremely helpful (and calming) during this time.