How NMES and Protein Work Together to Keep Muscles Strong: A Fascinating Study
Welcome to ORIEMS Fit Research Digest!
At ORIEMS Fit, we love sharing exciting research that helps you understand the fascinating world of wellness and fitness. Today, we’re diving into a study that looks at how Neuromuscular Electrical Stimulation (NMES) and high-protein diets can protect muscles during tough times. Let’s make this simple and interesting!
What’s This Research About?
Original Research Name: Identification of metabolites associated with preserved muscle volume after aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage due to high protein supplementation and neuromuscular electrical stimulation
Authors: Aaron M. Gusdon and team
When and Where: This study was conducted in 2024 by researchers at the University of Texas Health Science Center and the University of Maryland, both respected institutions in the USA.
What Did the Researchers Do?
The team studied 24 adults who had experienced aSAH—a condition where blood vessels in the brain burst, leading to serious health challenges. They wanted to find out how NMES and a high-protein diet could help keep muscles strong during recovery.
They used NMES devices on patients’ thigh muscles and provided a protein-rich diet. Blood samples were taken to measure changes in the body, especially in molecules related to muscle health.
Why Is This Study Interesting?
- NMES in Action: NMES uses gentle electrical pulses to make muscles contract, even if the person can’t move much. It acts like exercise for your muscles.
- Protein Power: The patients were given a whey protein shake three times a day, helping their bodies build and protect muscles.
What Did They Find?
Here are the fascinating results:
- Less Muscle Loss: The NMES and high-protein group had significantly less muscle loss in their thighs (only 3% loss) compared to the standard care group (12% loss).
- Special Molecules Found: The study identified molecules like N-acetylleucine and quinolinate that were higher in patients receiving NMES and protein. These molecules are linked to muscle preservation and better recovery.
- Improved Balance: People on the high-protein plan had better nitrogen levels, which means their bodies were better at handling protein.
Why Could This Be Helpful?
For people using NMES devices, this research shows how combining the device with a protein-rich diet could protect muscles during illness or injury. It’s like giving your body a double boost!
Key Takeaways:
- NMES works as exercise when you can’t move much.
- Eating enough protein helps your body recover faster and keeps muscles from shrinking.
- Some specific molecules in your body may play a big role in muscle health, and NMES combined with protein increases these helpful molecules.
Our Message to You
This blog is part of our ORIEMS Fit Research Digest, where we share amazing discoveries to inspire your own journey toward health and fitness. We don’t offer medical advice, but we hope this sparks curiosity!
Want to Learn More?
For more details, check out the full study here: Read the Study.
Disclaimer: This blog is for informational and recreational purposes only. Always consult a healthcare professional before trying new treatments. Full Disclaimer.
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