Muscles are soft tissues critical for body movement and metabolic functions, classified into skeletal muscles (voluntary, attached to bones), smooth muscles (involuntary, in organs), and cardiac muscles (involuntary, in the heart).
Key roles of muscles:
- Protein metabolism: Muscles act as reservoirs of amino acids, supporting tissue and organ functions during protein scarcity.
- Critical illness: Muscle breakdown aids recovery in stress conditions like sepsis or cancer.
- Obesity and energy balance: Higher muscle mass boosts resting energy expenditure, aiding weight management.
- Chronic diseases: Loss of muscle mass is linked to conditions like heart disease, cancer, and sarcopenia.
- Diabetes: Insulin resistance in muscles can lead to type 2 diabetes.
- Osteoporosis: Greater muscle mass improves bone density and reduces fall risks.
Sustaining muscle mass with age:
- Hormonal therapy: Can boost muscle mass but may pose risks.
- Exercise: Strength training improves muscle health and prevents age-related loss.
- Nutrition: Adequate protein intake (1.2–2.0g/kg/day) from sources like eggs, fish, meat, and legumes is vital for muscle protein synthesis.
Maintaining muscle mass through tailored exercise, a protein-rich diet, and professional guidance is essential for long-term health and functional strength.
Read full blog here:
