What do muscles do in our bodies? What happens when they are weak?

 What do muscles do in our bodies? What happens when they are weak?

Muscles are tissues made up of more than 600 soft cells in the body, which help move and shape the body.

There are three types of muscles: skeletal muscles, smooth muscles, and cardiac muscles, which respectively move voluntarily, automatically, and ensure the heartbeat.

Muscles require a molecule called ATP to provide energy, and foods rich in protein, carbohydrates, fats, and vitamins keep muscles healthy.

Just think, what would happen if our bodies did not have muscles? There would only be bones in our faces. We would probably look ugly and scary. We would not be able to move our arms and legs, we would not be able to stand or sit. It would be impossible to speak a word, blink an eye, or chew food. All this means that our life is not possible without muscles.

From this, we can understand how indispensable muscles are to us.

What is muscle?

Muscle is a tissue made up of special types of cells, which are tight when not needed and flexible when needed, making our body move. It is a very soft cell, which is in the form of a sheet. It has fibers that connect each other, which have the ability to stretch and contract.

There are more than 600 muscles in the body. All of these account for about 45 percent of the body's weight.

There are also types of muscles.

1. Skeletal muscles

These muscles are connected to the bones, they move according to our will. They are used to walk, run, change facial expressions, laugh, cry, get angry. These muscles also help in waving and moving the hands.

2. Soft muscles

These muscles are found in the intestines, stomach, and blood vessels. Which are not under our control. They are constantly working to digest food and circulate blood.

3. Cardiac muscles

These muscles are found only in the heart. It helps our fetus to keep beating without stopping even for a moment from the time it develops in the womb until death.

What do muscles do in the body?

Propulsion: All activities such as walking, running, sitting, and standing are done with the help of muscles.

Shaping: Muscles shape and beautify the body and our various organs.

Protecting organs: Protecting and covering the bones and our internal organs.

Generating heat: Provides heat and warmth to the body.

Balance and posture: Helps us sit or stand upright.

Source of energy for muscles

Muscles do not just move. They need energy to move. That energy comes from a molecule called ATP (adenosine triphosphate), which is made from food. Muscles not only need energy, but also carbohydrates, proteins, fats, and vitamins to keep them healthy.

– Carbohydrates are obtained from rice, bread, and potatoes.

– Protein is obtained from lentils, eggs, and meat.

– Fat is obtained from milk, almonds, and ghee.

– Foods rich in vitamins, calcium, and magnesium also strengthen bones and muscles.

Causes of muscle weakness

Aging: Muscle mass and strength decrease with age. This is called sarcopenia.

Inactive lifestyle: Muscles weaken due to prolonged physical inactivity or lack of exercise.

Nutritional deficiency: Lack of protein, vitamin D, and other nutrients affects muscle growth and repair.

Disease or health problems: Such as diabetes, thyroid problems, muscle diseases, and nerve problems. These problems can cause problems such as lack of blood circulation in the muscles, increased muscle fatigue, weakness, and nerve diseases that prevent nerve signals from reaching the brain.

Excessive stress or injury: Repeated injuries or excessive strain weaken muscles.

Effects of medication or treatment: Long-term use of steroids, chemotherapy, or other drugs can cause muscle loss.

Muscle tears are a major problem

A muscle tear is when muscle tissue is torn when it is overstretched or subjected to a sudden force. This can easily happen when lifting heavy objects suddenly, exercising without warming up, doing the same thing continuously, or being in an accident.

A tear can cause severe pain, swelling, a blue-black bruise, and difficulty moving the affected area. Muscles are naturally weaker and less flexible, especially in old age, so they are more likely to tear even with simple tasks or minor injuries.

Muscle problems

Loss of strength: Tiredness with simple tasks such as climbing stairs, lifting heavy objects, or walking.

Loss of balance: Unsteadiness in movement, frequent falling, or difficulty standing.

Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing due to weakness of the chest muscles.

Problems with walking: Difficulty walking, running, or getting up due to weakness in the muscles of the legs or arms.

Muscle pain or swelling: Muscle pain, twitching, or swelling after fatigue or even with normal activity.

Muscle wasting: Muscle loss due to prolonged weakness.

Difficulty with normal activities: Daily tasks such as writing, cooking, or lifting are affected.

If these symptoms persist for a long time, it is very important to consult a doctor.

How to keep muscles strong and healthy?

– Eat a combination of foods containing protein, carbohydrates, and vitamins every day.

– Exercise regularly such as running, stretching, and weight training

– Drink enough water.

– Get good sleep.

– Avoid smoking and alcohol.

– Practice meditation and yoga