A recently published study by LEGend researchers investigated factors associated with muscle mass in the UK Biobank (, 2024).
As we age, muscle mass and strength naturally decline, affecting our health and independence. This study explored how diet, exercise, and sleep influence muscle health in middle-aged men and women. It analyzed data from 45,984 individuals aged 40-70 to understand these effects. The results showed that regular physical activity and higher fiber intake significantly improved muscle mass and handgrip strength, especially in people over 55. Other factors, like protein intake, sleep, and alcohol consumption, also impacted muscle health but in varying ways. For instance, higher protein intake and longer sleep were linked to better handgrip strength, while more water intake was associated with greater muscle mass. The findings suggest that maintaining muscle health is complex and influenced by multiple lifestyle factors. The study emphasizes the need for more research to develop personalized recommendations. Understanding these factors can help individuals maintain muscle health as they age.
Read the abstract of the publication here (, 2024) and the full article here.