Originally Posted by
hemprider
You realize this only happens when you starve your body? People who eat adequate calories never experience this, if you feel otherwise please feel free to prove it.
This has been proven quite well in endurance efforts. Applicable to us: bike rides of over 80-100 miles begin taxing the body beyond normal needs. For extended effort, the body requires ~ 500 calories per hour. This is difficult for most to take in, so your body begins going calorie deficient and utilizing fat stores. When you've got low body fat, "unneeded" muscle is burned for fuel. Consuming extra protein helps balance the body, which is why most endurance drinks have protein and some fat in them.