Muscle: Your Secret Weapon for a Longer, Healthier Life
Strength training isn’t just about bigger biceps; it is an investment in your future. According to experts, building and maintaining muscle mass could be the key to a longer, more vibrant life, improving your overall health and well-being.
Why Muscle Matters for Longevity
Dr. Jeremy London, a cardiothoracic surgeon, recently discussed how muscle is vital for healthy aging in an online video. He indicated that as we age, preserving muscle mass becomes even more important, as it helps us avoid frailty and reduces the risk of falls.
Maintaining muscle mass helps in performing daily activities, such as standing up from the floor, getting out of a car, or navigating stairs. This enhanced functionality can drastically improve quality of life.
How Muscle Impacts Your Health
Dr. London further explained that building muscle has physiological benefits. Muscle acts as a “sink” for glucose within the body. Consistently elevated glucose levels can cause insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome. By maintaining muscle mass, individuals can lower their overall mortality risk.
“Like getting down on the floor and getting up, getting out of a car, or climbing a flight of stairs with stability and coming down a flight of stairs with stability,”
—Dr. Jeremy London, Cardiothoracic Surgeon
A recent study showed that people with greater muscle mass are less likely to develop type 2 diabetes, with one in three adults in the US currently affected (CDC 2024).
Building and Maintaining Muscle
Dr. London advises focusing on diet and exercise to improve muscle mass. He suggests consuming enough protein to meet your personal goals and doing a quality resistance training program.
To remain consistent with your resistance training, the surgeon advises choosing activities you enjoy and avoiding injuries. By following these tactics, people can improve the quality and length of their lives.
