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Medical Research & Health Review Series

Your Muscles Get Invaded With Fat from Reduced Physical Activity

Dr. Ohan Karatoprak, M.D.

Most people think that fat just accumulates under their skin and around the organs in the abdomen. But a research team led by Dr. Todd Manini determined that under certain circumstances fat can also invade your muscles. They reported that reduced physical activity causes fat accumulation in the muscles. In this study healthy men and women age range 19 to 28 years participated in an 8 week study to determine if the fat content of the legs would change without activity. During the first 4 weeks of the study these people had normal activity. But then, this period of normal activity was followed by another 4 week period, which during this period they used only one leg to walk. This was accomplished by each person using crutches, walking only with one foot, and the other foot was suspended off of the ground.

To determine the fat content of the legs, the researchers used magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the thigh and calf. At the end of the first 4 weeks (normal activity period) no differences in muscle and fat content was observed between legs. However, after the second 4 weeks the inactive leg of the subjects had a noticeable increase in fat accumulation in their calf and thigh muscles, as well as they lost muscle size and strength.

The results of this study illustrate the importance of regular exercise and physical activity for muscle health, muscle strength, muscle mass, and to avoid accumulation of fat buildup in the muscles. Muscles that are invaded with fat (fat accumulation) do not function well, and burn less calories, about 20% less compared to an active person who follows a proper exercise program, such as my Body-Profile Type individualized exercise program.  In my practice I have also observed that people who are obese, or on the way to obesity, and not active will accumulate excess body fat in their muscles, as well as subcutaneous and visceral body fat. Weight loss, without proper exercise does not eliminate this fat accumulation in the muscles. This should encourage you to stick to my recommended personalized exercise program, in addition to your Body-Profile Nutrition program.

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Reference:
Todd M. Manini, and associates. Reduced Physical Activity Increases Intermuscular Adipose Tissue In Healthy Young Adults. American Journal of Clinical Nutrition 2007;85:377-384. 

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