The present invention relates to a composition for stimulating muscle growth, repair and maintenance and the method of using the same. The present invention generally relates to compositions and methods for supporting muscle anabolism. The compositions described herein are pharmaceutical or nutritional compositions suitable for preserving muscle mass, strength, and/or function in a subject in need thereof. The compositions are based on a specially formulated mixture of essential amino acids (EAAs) and protein with additional components. Use of the compositions herein may prevent muscle atrophy associated with periods of rest, such as those following surgery, injury, inactivity and during recovery from disease.