Lean mass preservation is the physiological strategy and clinical goal of maintaining the body’s fat-free mass, which primarily includes muscle, bone, and water, particularly in the face of aging or catabolic stress. This is a critical component of healthy aging, as the progressive loss of muscle mass, known as sarcopenia, significantly compromises metabolic rate, physical strength, and overall functional independence. Effective preservation requires an integrated approach combining anabolic hormonal support, specific resistance training, and adequate protein intake. Sustaining lean mass is directly linked to metabolic health and vitality.
Origin
The term combines the physiological descriptor “lean mass” with the clinical objective of “preservation.” This concept gained clinical significance as researchers recognized the profound negative impact of sarcopenia on healthspan and mortality in the aging population. The emphasis shifted from merely managing body weight to actively maintaining the metabolically active muscle tissue.
Mechanism
Preservation is mediated by balancing the anabolic drive, primarily regulated by hormones like testosterone, growth hormone, and insulin, against catabolic signals such as cortisol. Resistance exercise provides the mechanical stimulus necessary to activate the mTOR pathway, promoting muscle protein synthesis. Adequate nutritional input ensures the availability of amino acid building blocks, preventing net protein breakdown and supporting the maintenance of muscle and bone density.
We use cookies to personalize content and marketing, and to analyze our traffic. This helps us maintain the quality of our free resources. manage your preferences below.
Detailed Cookie Preferences
This helps support our free resources through personalized marketing efforts and promotions.
Analytics cookies help us understand how visitors interact with our website, improving user experience and website performance.
Personalization cookies enable us to customize the content and features of our site based on your interactions, offering a more tailored experience.