Injury Insights: Dr. Ramos and Zach Bye Discuss Zac Veen Gaining 40lbs of muscle After Getting Sober
From recovery road to muscle mode
In this edition of Injury Insights, Dr. Joseph Ramos discusses the connection between alcohol consumption and muscle growth following a report that Zac Veen, a Colorado Rockies outfielder, gained significant muscle after stopping drinking.
Dr. Ramos explains that alcohol can interfere with several processes involved in building and maintaining muscle. According to Dr. Ramos, alcohol can decrease muscle protein synthesis, reduce growth hormone production, suppress testosterone production and affect insulin resistance and cortisol levels. Together, these hormonal and metabolic effects can make it harder for the body to build muscle.
He also explains why stopping alcohol consumption can create a significant shift: when those negative effects are reduced, the body may be better positioned to support muscle growth and recovery.
Key Insights
- Alcohol Hits Muscle: Alcohol can interfere with the body’s ability to synthesize the proteins needed to build muscle.
- Protein Takes a Hit: Dr. Ramos says alcohol can decrease muscle protein synthesis by up to 25%.
- Growth Hormone Gets Grounded: Alcohol can disrupt deep sleep, where much of the body’s growth hormone production occurs.
- Hormones Matter: Alcohol can suppress testosterone while also affecting insulin resistance and cortisol.
- Sobriety Supports Strength: Removing alcohol can eliminate several barriers to muscle growth, potentially helping the body build muscle more effectively.
