The Metabolic Classroom with Dr. Ben Bikman

The Link Between Muscle Loss, Aging and Obesity: Anabolic Resistance Explained w/Dr. Ben Bikman

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Jul 30, 2025

Discover the fascinating phenomenon of anabolic resistance, where the body struggles to build muscle due to factors like aging and obesity. Dr. Bikman breaks down the key culprits behind this issue, such as reduced hormone levels and inflammation. He explains how the mTOR pathway influences muscle health and why amino acids are crucial. Plus, learn actionable strategies to combat muscle loss through resistance training and specific nutrient intake. Strength isn't just for aesthetics—it's vital for longevity and independence!

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INSIGHT

Muscle Mass Predicts Longevity

Muscle mass and strength predict longevity more powerfully than LDL cholesterol.
Sarcopenia increases risk of falls, fractures, and metabolic problems like insulin resistance.

INSIGHT

Aging Mimics A Rusty Lock

Aging muscles require stronger stimuli to trigger growth, akin to a rusty lock needing more force.
This anabolic resistance happens not only in aging but also in obesity, regardless of age.

INSIGHT

Different Causes of Anabolic Resistance

Aging causes decline in anabolic hormones and reduces amino acid delivery to muscles.
Obesity promotes inflammation and insulin resistance, impairing muscle anabolic signaling.

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In this Metabolic Classroom lecture, Ben explores the concept of anabolic resistance—the body’s reduced ability to build and maintain muscle in response to stimuli like protein intake and resistance training.

This phenomenon, often associated with aging, also affects individuals with obesity or a sedentary lifestyle. Because muscle health is directly tied to longevity, strength, insulin sensitivity, and independence, understanding and reversing anabolic resistance is critical for long-term metabolic health.

Dr. Bikman explains the key drivers of anabolic resistance: reduced anabolic hormone levels, impaired amino acid delivery, inflammation, and cellular changes such as insulin resistance and intramuscular lipid buildup. He emphasizes the central role of the mTOR signaling pathway in muscle protein synthesis, and how factors like age, obesity, and inactivity blunt this response—even when adequate nutrients and exercise are present.

The lecture ends with practical strategies to overcome anabolic resistance, including resistance training, high-leucine animal protein intake, creatine, omega-3s, vitamin D3, and even peptides. Ben stresses that building muscle isn’t just about looking good—it’s about preventing frailty, insulin resistance, and loss of independence. Resistance training is non-negotiable, and diet alone will never be enough to restore optimal muscle health.

Show Notes/References:

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Other products Ben likes: https://www.amazon.com/shop/benbikmanphd

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