Tag: Myosteatosis

Excessive fat accumulation within muscle tissue, a condition known as myosteatosis, is a common feature of aging and inactivity. This phenomenon is more than just an aesthetic concern, as it has significant metabolic and functional implications for overall health.

Intramuscular fat, known scientifically as intramyocellular triglycerides (IMTG) and informally as marbling, is fat within skeletal muscle fibers. Excessive intramuscular fat, known as myosteatosis, can lead to health issues.

Recent studies show that fat accumulation within muscles can increase mortality risk as much as type 2 diabetes. So, what is skeletal fat, and why is this hidden fat a health concern?

According to a 2024 study, increased intramuscular fat is associated with a higher risk of heart disease, regardless of a person's body mass index. But what are small flecks of fat throughout the muscle, and are they always a cause for concern? The answer varies significantly depending on whether you're talking about meat or human health.

While the idea of fat mingling with muscle might seem unusual, a significant body of research confirms that it is not only possible but a common physiological occurrence. The accumulation of fat within skeletal muscle, known as myosteatosis, is an important indicator of metabolic health that can influence muscle quality and function.

Did you know that skeletal muscle is composed of roughly 1–10% fat tissue? The existence of fat *within* the muscle, known as intramuscular fat, is a complex biological reality, and its health implications depend heavily on its type, quantity, and your overall fitness level.