Question 88 of 433
Why do doctors now call muscle “the organ of longevity”?
The short answer
Because muscle is not only for moving. It burns sugar, stores protein for emergencies, sends anti-inflammatory signals, and keeps you independent.
Muscle is the largest site for clearing sugar from your blood, so more muscle means better blood sugar. When you are ill or injured, the body draws on muscle protein to heal. And working muscle releases chemical messengers that benefit the brain, the bones, and the immune system. Dr. Gabrielle Lyon built her book Forever Strong around this idea, and she is right.
Without training, we lose 3 to 8 percent of our muscle each decade after 30, and faster after 60. Power, the ability to move quickly, goes even faster. Power is what catches you when you trip.
“This book is for education. It is not medical advice, and reading it does not make you my patient or create a doctor-patient relationship.” From the book’s medical disclaimer. Full disclaimer
ESTABLISHED BIOLOGY / HUMAN TRIALS — Adults: muscle supports metabolism and function; no single organ guarantees longevity.Evidence grade (draft mapping)EEstablished clinical knowledgePart 6, Q88 · Part sources
From Longevity Unmasked by Afshine Ash Emrani, MD, FACC. Medical disclaimer. This book is for education. It is not medical advice, and reading it does not make you my patient or create a doctor-patient relationship. Nothing here is meant to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Medicine is personal: a test, drug, supplement, or exercise plan that helps one person can harm another. Do not start, stop, or change any medication or treatment because of something you read in these pages. Talk with a licensed clinician who knows your history first. If you think you are having a medical emergency, call 911. The author disclaims responsibility for any loss or harm arising from use of the information in this book.