Understand the relationship between muscle mass and body health

Muscle mass is a fibrous and elastic tissue whose main function is to move the body. However, that is not its only goal. Responsible for producing numerous substances that help strengthen the immune system and protect DNA, this tissue also plays a key role in the body’s health and well-being.

Therefore, investing in a balanced diet, practicing physical activity and adopting other healthy lifestyle habits are key actions to take care of muscle mass and prevent the development of diseases. Thus, the nutrologist and endocrinologist Dr. Ronan Araujo explains the importance of this tissue and how to avoid its loss. Look!

Substances produced by lean mass

Among the substances produced by muscle mass, we can highlight myokines, proteins produced by muscle fibers and which play an important role in communicating with other body tissues. These proteins can influence the immune response, helping to prevent chronic inflammation, which can be associated with many diseases.

The Doctor. Ronan Araujo comments that, in addition, muscle mass also produces antioxidant substances that help protect our DNA against oxidative damage caused by free radicals. This damage can lead to genetic mutations and even the development of cancer.

Importance of lean mass for the body

In fact, there is a strong relationship between muscle mass and metabolic health. The greater the muscle mass, the lower the metabolic risk of developing disease, which in turn decreases the risk of mortality. This is because muscle mass plays an important role in metabolism regulation of the body. She is responsible for storing and burning energy, contributing to the maintenance of blood glucose and insulin sensitivity.

When there is a sufficient amount of muscle mass, the body’s metabolism works more efficiently, reducing the risk of developing metabolic diseases such as type 2 diabetes. “In addition, muscle mass can also help protect the heart. This is because, during muscle contraction, there is a release of substances that have a vasodilator effect, that is, that help expand blood vessels and improve blood flow. As a result, the heart has to work less to pump blood, which reduces the risk of heart disease,” explains the doctor.

It is also worth mentioning that muscle mass is important for bone health. When muscles are stimulated through physical activity, there is an increase in strength and bone density, reducing the risk of osteoporosis and fractures.

Practicing physical activity stimulates the production of muscle mass

It is possible to understand that the sooner we start investing in the lean mass gain, the greater the benefits we will be able to reap throughout our lives. That’s because the loss of muscle mass is a natural consequence of aging, which begins to occur from the age of 30. This loss of muscle mass can lead to a number of health problems, such as metabolic diseases, heart problems, osteoporosis and physical frailty.

On the other hand, investing in physical activities that promote muscle mass gain from an early age can help prevent these problems and ensure a healthier and more active life. In addition, muscle mass gain can also contribute to improving self-esteem, disposition and quality of life in general.

“It is important for people to start worrying about gaining lean mass from an early age, through physical activities and a balanced diet. Regular practice of physical exercises that stimulate muscle mass gain, such as bodybuilding, can be an excellent option for those seeking a healthier and more active life. Investing in lean mass gain from an early age is a way to achieve more health and quality of life throughout life”, concludes Dr. Ronan Araujo.

By Gabriela Dallo