75 per cent of Hyderabadis have poor muscle health: Survey

​Hyderabad: Three out of four persons in Hyderabad are founding wanting when it comes to muscle health. According to a new survey, Hyderabad is at third position among different Indian cities with highest number of people suffering from poor muscle health.

After Lucknow (81 per cent) and Patna ( 77) comes Hyderabad with 78 percent of males and 72 percent of females found to have lower protein content leading to poor muscle health. The nationwide study was conducted by South Korea based InBody, a global leader in body composition analysis sector, across eight cities – Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Ahmedabad, Lucknow and Patna apart from Hyderabad. Covering 1,243 people, the respondents were a mix of working and non-working individuals between the age of 30-55 years.

Poor muscle mass could lead to impaired muscle function, fatigue and poor metabolic health, the researchers said. Seven out of 10 people at the pan India level having poor muscle health is a matter of great concern and it is important to find out ways and means to address this issue. There is an urgent need to spread awareness about muscle health, role of adequate protein intake and exercise for a healthy life. 

From the eight surveyed cities, the data revealed that more than 70 per cent of males and females in the age group of 30-50 need to gain more muscle mass.  The study also analysed the body protein level and the trend was similar to that of the poor muscle mass levels. Nutrition and exercise have been shown to play a major role in improving muscle health. With reference to nutrition, one specific nutrient that plays a role in muscle health is Protein. 

Speaking to this paper, Dr Ankita Ghag, licensed dietician and nutritionist from Mumbai, this survey was done for four weeks spread over May and June. Body composition analysis of respondents was done through BIA (bioelectrical impedance analysis) technique, she added. Dr Ankita emphasized on balanced and good diet along with regular exercise to maintain good muscle health. 

“Adequate intake of dietary proteins is vital to maintaining muscle mass as it ensures the provision of essential amino acids and stimulates protein synthesis. Drinking a lot of water and ensuring limited cooking oil in food helps. Preference should be on including chicken, fish, eggs, pulses, soyabean in diet and consuming milk products regularly," she opined.