Many people used to check their health by looking at their weight or Body Mass Index (BMI). Now, doctors and researchers say it is also important to build and keep healthy muscles. This change happens because muscles do much more than help us move.

Doctors say having more muscles helps control blood sugar, supports the body’s defences against illness, and protects bones. After eating, muscles use a lot of sugar from food, so building muscle can make it easier for the body to manage blood sugar.

Because of this, health experts now tell people of all ages to do resistance exercises, like push-ups or squats, and eat enough protein. This can help everyone, including teenagers, grow stronger and stay healthier, not just lose weight.