Resistance training turns our muscle cells into glucose-hoarding powerhouses. It boosts the number and efficiency of GLUT4 transporters, making our muscles more adept at managing glucose levels independently of insulin. This is a game-changer, especially for those with insulin sensitivity issues. This means that when you exercise, your cells will pull in glucose that’s floating in the bloodstream WITHOUT the presence of insulin. This is huge!
Muscle and Metabolism: The Power of Skeletal Muscle Mass
Think of SMM as a savings account in a bank. The more you deposit early on (by building muscle), the more you'll have to withdraw later in life, even as age starts to make regular “withdrawals.” If your health goals sidestep SMM, you're bypassing a monumental opportunity. It's not solely about the visual appeal; it's about enhancing our metabolic efficiency to optimize both our healthspan and functional capacity throughout life.