Is muscle only for movement and strength?

No. Muscle is now recognised as a major metabolic organ. It plays a key role in glucose control, fat metabolism, and overall energy balance.

 Why is muscle called a metabolic organ?

Skeletal muscle: Uses most of the body’s glucose. Stores glycogen, which influences insulin sensitivity. It directly affects diseases like diabetes.

 How does muscle help control blood sugar?

Muscle takes up glucose in response to insulin. In fact, approximately 70-80% of glucose disposal after meals happens in the muscle. Less muscle is equivalent to poorer sugar control.

What happens when muscle mass is low?

Low muscle mass (sarcopenia) leads to: Insulin resistance, Weight gain (more fat), Higher risk of type 2 diabetes

What is Sarcopenia?

It is an age-related loss of muscle mass and strength, commonly seen after 50-60 years. A silent but serious problem in elderly Indians.

Does muscle act like an endocrine organ?

Yes. Muscle releases myokines (chemical messengers) that: Reduce inflammation, improve metabolism, and affect other organs like the liver and fat

Can muscle prevent diabetes?

More muscle improves insulin sensitivity and helps reduce diabetes risk, thus making muscle a natural defense against diabetes.

Why do sedentary people develop metabolic diseases?

Because inactivity leads to: Muscle loss, fat gain, and reduced insulin sensitivity, sitting is the new smoking for metabolism.

Author: Dr Jay Deshmukh

Dr Jay Deshmukh is Chief Physician and Director, Sunflower Hospital, Nagpur Honorary Physician to Honorable Governor of Maharashtra and PondicherryCentral. Dr Jay Deshmukh is an M.B.B.S., M.C.P.S., F.C.P.S., M.N.A.M.S., MD From Internal Medicine – Bombay and New Delhi.