Iron Culture presented by MASS Ep 351 - New Research on Constrained Model and NSAIDs
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Oct 29, 2025 Discover the latest insights on the constrained energy expenditure model and its implications on fitness. The hosts dissect new research suggesting how physical activity impacts total energy expenditure and the potential metabolic ceilings. They explore the effects of NSAIDs on muscle growth, warning about the risks of regular use for athletes. Additionally, a fascinating discussion emerges on the varying structures of PhD programs worldwide, emphasizing the importance of research experiences over institutional prestige.
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Constrained Versus Additive Energy Models
- The constrained total energy expenditure model proposes that total daily energy expenditure plateaus at very high activity levels rather than increasing indefinitely.
- This model contrasts with the additive model which assumes a linear rise in expenditure with more activity.
High Activity, Similar Total Expenditure
- Hunter-gatherer and subsistence populations show high activity but total energy expenditure similar to sedentary Americans after adjusting for body size.
- This observation motivated the idea that bodies downregulate other energy components to keep total expenditure within a limit.
Constraint Needs An Energetic Stressor
- Adaptive downregulation of energy expenditure requires a stressor like low energy availability or sustained extreme activity to manifest.
- Without an intake shortfall, added activity often increases expenditure linearly because no constraint is needed.