Da Vinci sketch

The Role of Muscles and Genes in the Science of Longevity

Muscle mass is not just an indicator of physical strength or athletic ability. Modern research shows that muscles play a key role in maintaining health, preventing chronic diseases, and even extending lifespan. They are not only the framework of the body but also an active hormonal organ that influences the functioning of the entire body. Let’s explore why muscles are so important, how they are connected to our health, and what factors influence their preservation and development.

Molecular biology is one of the key disciplines that help us understand the processes of aging and develop strategies for extending healthy life. Thanks to advancements in this field, scientists have been able to uncover the mechanisms underlying aging at the cellular and molecular levels. This has opened new horizons for longevity research and enabled the development of innovative approaches to preventing age-related diseases.

One of the key areas of molecular biology is the study of genes associated with the aging process. Scientists have identified several genes that play an important role in regulating lifespan. For example, genes in the sirtuin family are involved in maintaining genome stability and protecting cells from stress. Research has shown that activating these genes can slow down aging processes and increase lifespan. Another important gene is FOXO3, which is linked to longevity in humans. People with certain variants of this gene have a higher likelihood of living to 100 years or more. Molecular biology allows us to study how these genes interact with the environment and lifestyle to develop personalized approaches to extending life.

Epigenetics: How the Environment Influences Genes

Epigenetics is a branch of molecular biology that studies how external factors such as diet, stress, and physical activity influence gene expression. Epigenetic changes, such as DNA methylation or histone modification, can turn genes on or off without altering the DNA sequence itself. This means that our lifestyle can influence how quickly we age. For example, research has shown that a healthy diet, regular physical activity, and reduced stress levels can positively affect epigenetic markers, slowing down the aging process. This opens up new opportunities for preventing age-related diseases and extending healthy life.

Physical Activity and Mitochondria

Physical activity not only helps build muscle mass but also improves the function of mitochondria—the energy powerhouses of cells. Mitochondria produce ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which is the primary source of energy for all processes in the body. The better the mitochondria function, the more energy we have for daily life and physical activity. Research shows that supplements like urolithin A can improve mitochondrial function and increase muscle strength even in people who do not exercise.

Muscles as a Hormonal Organ

It was once thought that muscles were only needed for movement and maintaining physical fitness. However, science has now proven that muscle mass is a full-fledged hormonal organ. During movement, muscles release signaling molecules called myokines. These molecules influence the brain, liver, pancreas, and other organs. For example, the myokine irisin, discovered in 2012, promotes the conversion of white fat into brown fat, which actively burns calories. Additionally, irisin stimulates bone mineralization, which is especially important for preventing osteoporosis.

Muscle Mass and Chronic Diseases

Modern research links a decline in muscle mass to the development of chronic diseases. For example, a lack of physical activity and muscle loss can lead to metabolic disorders, obesity, diabetes, and even cancer. This happens because myokines, released by muscles, regulate the function of many organs and systems. If muscle mass is insufficient, the body does not receive the necessary signals, which can lead to malfunctions.

Protein as the Foundation of Muscle Mass

To maintain muscle mass, it is extremely important to consume enough protein. Protein consists of amino acids, which are the building blocks of muscles. However, not all amino acids can be synthesized by the body—9 of them are essential and must be obtained through diet. For example, methionine and lysine are essential amino acids found in meat, fish, eggs, and legumes. For vegans and vegetarians, it is especially important to monitor amino acid balance, as plant-based protein sources often lack all the necessary components.

Sports Supplements and Nutrient Absorption

The absorption of nutrients is a key factor influencing their effectiveness in the body. For example, calcium, which is often recommended for preventing osteoporosis, may not be properly absorbed if the body lacks hormones such as estrogen. In studies where calcium did not show effectiveness, participants were often postmenopausal women with reduced estrogen levels. This does not mean that calcium does not work, but its effectiveness depends on hormonal balance.

The same applies to other elements, such as silicon. Its metabolism also depends on hormones, and if there are hormonal imbalances in the body, silicon may not be properly absorbed. Therefore, it is important not only to take supplements but also to consider individual body characteristics.

The Role of Folic Acid in Maintaining Health and Muscle Mass

Folic acid, also known as vitamin B9, plays an important role in the body, especially when it comes to maintaining health, energy metabolism, and even muscle mass. This water-soluble vitamin is essential for numerous processes, including DNA synthesis, cell division, and the formation of red blood cells. However, its impact on muscle mass and overall health is often underestimated. Let’s take a closer look at how folic acid is connected to maintaining muscle mass and why it is so important for our body.

Folic acid is involved in amino acid metabolism—the building blocks of protein. It plays a key role in the methylation process, which is necessary for the synthesis of new proteins and tissue repair, including muscle fibers. Without sufficient folic acid, the protein synthesis process can slow down, negatively affecting muscle recovery and growth after physical activity.

Additionally, folic acid is involved in the production of methionine—an essential amino acid important for muscle protein synthesis. A deficiency in folic acid can lead to reduced methionine levels, which, in turn, slows down muscle recovery and growth.

Folic acid plays an important role in energy metabolism. It is involved in converting homocysteine into methionine, which helps maintain normal energy levels in the body. High levels of homocysteine, which can occur with folic acid deficiency, are associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and fatigue. For people leading an active lifestyle, this is especially important, as a lack of energy can reduce workout effectiveness and slow muscle recovery.

Folic acid is necessary for cell division and tissue repair, including muscle fibers. After intense physical activity, muscles need to recover, and folic acid helps accelerate this process. It promotes the formation of new cells and tissues, which is especially important for athletes and people engaged in strength training.

Folic acid also plays a role in maintaining hormonal balance, which is important for muscle health. For example, it is involved in the synthesis of dopamine and serotonin—neurotransmitters that influence mood and motivation. Low levels of these substances can reduce the desire to exercise and maintain physical activity, which, in turn, negatively affects muscle mass.

Sources of Folic Acid

Folic acid is found in various foods, including:

• Leafy green vegetables: spinach, kale, broccoli.

• Legumes: lentils, beans, peas.

• Citrus fruits: oranges, lemons, grapefruits.

• Nuts and seeds: almonds, sunflower seeds.

• Liver and meat: especially rich in folate.

Required Muscle Mass

Muscle mass peaks at around 30 years of age. After this age, we begin to lose muscle if we do not maintain it through physical activity and proper nutrition. People who were actively involved in sports before the age of 30 have an advantage, as their muscle mass was at its peak. However, even if you start training after 30, it is better than doing nothing. Regular physical activity helps preserve muscles and maintain their functionality.

How to Preserve Muscle Mass?

1. Regular physical activity. Even moderate exercise, such as walking, swimming, or yoga, helps maintain muscle mass and stimulates myokine production.

2. Balanced diet. Ensure your diet contains enough protein and all essential amino acids.

3. Control ammonia levels. Excess ammonia in the body can disrupt protein metabolism. To neutralize it, it is important to maintain liver health and consume antioxidant-rich foods.

4. Supplements for muscle support. Substances like urolithin A can improve mitochondrial function and help preserve muscle mass.

Rank this post

2 /5

Share this post

Author:

Admin Admin

Examiner:

Admin Admin