If Your Flesh Becomes Soft and You Feel Drained of Energy as You Age

Modern medicine explains the insight from Donguibogam that the spleen governs the flesh through various scientific mechanisms. The condition commonly known as sarcopenia represents this phenomenon of flesh becoming emaciated and soft, and it is recognized today not merely as a normal part of aging, but as an independent disease. Sarcopenia refers to a gradual decrease in muscle mass, muscle strength, and muscle function with age, leading to reduced physical capacity. When interpreted through modern medicine, the spleen in Donguibogam closely corresponds to the digestive system as a whole, especially nutrient absorption and metabolic regulation. The process where proteins, carbohydrates, and fats are broken down by digestive enzymes and absorbed through the wall of the small intestine aligns directly with the transportation and transformation function of the spleen. In a state of spleen qi deficiency, digestive enzyme secretion decreases and intestinal absorption drops, preventing an adequate supply of essential amino acids and micronutrients needed for muscle building. This can soon lead to decreased muscle protein synthesis and muscular atrophy. Furthermore, the spleen indirectly influences the secretion of metabolic hormones such as insulin. Insulin regulates blood glucose and promotes muscle protein synthesis. When insulin resistance develops or secretion is impaired, muscle metabolism suffers. With age, the decline in hormones crucial for muscle maintenance—such as growth hormone, insulin-like growth factor 1, and testosterone—is also cited as a major cause of sarcopenia. A chronic inflammatory state is another critical factor driving sarcopenia. Imbalances in the digestive system can trigger a systemic inflammatory response through conditions like leaky gut syndrome. These inflammatory substances accelerate muscle loss by promoting proteolysis and inhibiting synthesis. When vitamin D deficiency, insufficient protein intake, and decreased physical activity are added, muscle declines even faster. A general loss of energy results from a vicious cycle: reduced muscle mass lowers the basal metabolic rate, impairing efficient energy production. Ultimately, the health of the spleen extends beyond simple digestion, acting as a key factor in overall metabolic balance, muscle health, and vitality.