Why We Make Lactic Acid | MWM Energy Metabolism Cliff Notes #15

Why We Make Lactic Acid | MWM Energy Metabolism Cliff Notes #15

Author: Chris Masterjohn, PhD September 12, 2017 Duration: 11:35

One of the advantages of carbohydrate over fat is the ability to support the production of lactate. This is so important that carbohydrate is physiologically essential to red blood cells and certain brain cells known as astrocytes. For the same reason, it plays an important role in supporting the energy requirements of the lens and cornea, kidney medulla, and testes, and supports the quick boosts of peak energy needed during stressful situations that include high-intensity exercise. The biochemical role of lactate is to rescue NAD+ during times when NAD+ becomes limiting for glycolysis and glycolysis becomes a meaningful source of ATP. Through the Cori cycle, lactate can extract energy from the liver's supply of ATP and deliver it to other tissues such as skeletal muscle in the form of glucose. This lesson fleshes out the physiological and biochemical roles of lactate and serves as a foundation for the next lesson, which explores the role of carbohydrate in supporting sports performance.

Watch the full lesson at chrismasterjohnphd.com/mwm/2/17

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Chris Masterjohn, PhD, is the Founder and Scientific Director of the mitochondria test Mitome.


Chris Masterjohn, PhD hosts Mastering Nutrition, a podcast that digs into the science of how our bodies work at a fundamental level. The focus here is on mitochondrial health-the energy powerhouses within our cells-and how optimizing them forms the cornerstone of lasting vitality. Chris brings his background as a nutrition scientist and his experience founding BioOptHealth to these conversations, which move beyond generic diet advice. Instead, the podcast explores how individual differences, informed by tools like whole genome sequencing and detailed biochemical data, can reveal personalized paths to better metabolic function. Listeners will hear deep dives into cutting-edge research, practical interpretations of complex studies, and discussions on how to apply these insights in a real-world context. This isn't about quick fixes or trending superfoods; it's about building a coherent, scientifically-grounded understanding of nutrition from the cellular level up. Each episode aims to provide the kind of nuanced, evidence-based perspective that can help you make sense of conflicting health information. Whether the topic is a specific nutrient, a metabolic pathway, or a broader principle of wellness, Chris works to translate dense science into actionable knowledge. Tune in for a thoughtful, detailed exploration of what it truly means to master your own nutritional landscape.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 712

Mastering Nutrition
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