Calories vs. couch time: can diet save your muscles?

NCT ID NCT04900701

Completed Knowledge-focused Sponsor: University of Exeter Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study looked at how eating more or fewer calories affects muscle protein production and muscle size in healthy middle-aged adults during a short period of leg immobilization. Twenty-three participants were monitored under different energy intake conditions. The goal is to understand how diet might help prevent muscle loss when people are less active.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

What this could lead to: If successful, this research could help design better dietary strategies to prevent muscle loss during periods of inactivity, like bed rest or recovery from injury.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage observational study with only 23 participants. Results may not apply to older adults or people with health conditions, and the findings are not a treatment or cure.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

muscular atrophy protein-energy malnutrition

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

AGING ENERGY MALNUTRITION PROTEIN MUSCLE ATROPHY

Contacts and locations

Locations

Sport & Health Sciences University of Exeter

Exeter, Devon, EX1 2LU, United Kingdom
University of Exeter, Sports & Health Sciences, College of Life & Environmental Sciences

Exeter, Devon, EX1 2LU, United Kingdom

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