Muscles and Anti-Aging

Peter Lee

Aging manifests in two ways: internal decline, which is invisible, and external changes, which are visible. Internal aging is reflected in decreased bodily functions, while external aging includes muscle loss and skin sagging. People often judge age based on skin condition and physical ability.

Muscles play a dual role in aging:

      1.   Supporting appearance: Well-developed, elastic muscles make a person look youthful and energetic. They also support the skin, preventing wrinkles and sagging. Loss of muscle leads to drooping skin and visible signs of aging.

      2.   Regulating internal functions: Muscles are a key “storage organ” for blood sugar. They absorb glucose when blood sugar is high and release it when blood sugar is low, helping maintain stable glucose levels. This not only reduces the burden on the pancreas and lowers diabetes risk but also prevents excess glucose from being converted into fat, reducing the risk of obesity and fatty liver.

Elderly people who lack exercise often experience significant muscle loss, with thin limbs and fat accumulation around the waist and abdomen. This is both a sign of aging and a factor that accelerates health risks.

Conclusion: Muscles are crucial for health and youthfulness. Protecting muscles through regular exercise not only strengthens the body and maintains elasticity but also helps preserve a youthful appearance from the inside out.