GLOSSARY

Catabolic hormones are hormones that switch on the body’s breakdown processes, such as the breakdown of glycogen, fat and protein, to supply energy and fuel. These hormones are not bad; without them, the body could not supply the energy needed during exercise, fasting or stress.

Main Hormones

• Cortisol: increases gluconeogenesis, protein breakdown and lipolysis; anti-inflammatory effect.
• Glucagon: hepatic glycogenolysis and gluconeogenesis.
• Adrenaline and noradrenaline: rapid breakdown of glycogen and fat during exercise and stress.
• Thyroid hormones: raise resting metabolism and, at high levels, protein breakdown.
• Inflammatory cytokines such as TNF-α and IL-6 (in illness) also have catabolic effects.

Anabolic–Catabolic Balance

Muscle mass is the result of the balance between