What is a common outcome of chronic stress on muscle health?

Chronic stress has a significant impact on muscle health, and one of the most common outcomes is muscle wasting. When an individual experiences prolonged periods of stress, the body releases elevated levels of cortisol, a stress hormone. High cortisol levels can lead to protein breakdown and the mobilization of amino acids, ultimately resulting in the loss of muscle mass. This phenomenon is often referred to as catabolic muscle wasting.

In comparison, the other outcomes listed do not accurately reflect the effects of chronic stress. Improved muscle growth and enhanced muscle recovery are typically associated with healthy stress levels and effective training regimens, not chronic stress. Additionally, stable muscle mass would suggest that there is no significant degradation or improvement in muscle tissue, which is inconsistent with the physiological changes induced by long-term stress exposure. Thus, muscle wasting is the most accurate and common outcome related to chronic stress on muscle health.