Important Functions of Muscles in Our Body
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Response to Cold: In cold environments, muscles generate heat through shivering to increase body temperature.
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Immune System Role: When pathogens invade, muscles induce shivering to raise body temperature and inhibit pathogen activity.
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Blood Reservoir: Muscles store 15-20% of the body’s blood and efficiently distribute it during physical activity. While most organs use a consistent amount of blood whether at rest or active, muscles can increase their blood usage up to tenfold during intense activity. This mechanism helps redistribute blood throughout the body, preventing it from pooling in one area.
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Production of Pure Water: Muscles produce pure water (H₂O) within the body.
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Blood Sugar Storage: Muscles store blood sugar in the form of glycogen, with storage capacity determined by muscle strength rather than size. (Patients with diabetes or chronic fatigue syndrome often have weaker muscles and therefore lower glycogen storage.)
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Shock Absorption: Muscles act as a buffer, absorbing external shocks and protecting the body.
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Balance Maintenance: Muscles help maintain balance by stabilizing the body’s center of gravity.
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Movement Function: Muscles are connected to bones, enabling body movement.