TrailGenic Science

Autophagy is your body’s built-in recycling program — it breaks down and repurposes damaged cells, proteins, and organelles. Normally, autophagy ramps up after 16–18 hours of fasting, but endurance exercise accelerates the process. Hiking in a fasted state combines the metabolic stress of no incoming calories with the physical stress of prolonged effort, amplifying the signal for autophagy.

For TrailGenic™ hikes, fasted starts mean black coffee or tea, water, and electrolytes — no carbs or protein before or during the ascent. By withholding fuel, your body taps into stored fat for energy, freeing up glycogen reserves for when you truly need them. The result: improved metabolic flexibility, better insulin sensitivity, and less post-hike inflammation.

Safety matters — fasted hiking isn’t for everyone. Beginners should start with shorter durations and carry emergency carbs. Hydration and electrolytes are non-negotiable.

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