Decreased muscle mass, also known as sarcopenia, is a common condition that can affect people as they get older. It is characterized by a gradual loss of skeletal muscle tissue that can lead to weakness, poor mobility, and increased risk of injury. There are several potential causes of sarcopenia:
- Aging - As we get older, muscle fibers tend to shrink and decrease in number. Muscle protein synthesis rates decline, leading to muscle tissue breakdown. This natural decline in muscle mass begins around age 30.
- Lack of physical activity - If muscles are not exerted regularly through exercise or daily activity, they will begin to atrophy over time. An inactive lifestyle speeds up the loss of muscle.
- Poor nutrition - Consuming adequate protein and calories is essential for maintaining muscle. Low protein intake or malnutrition can accelerate sarcopenia.
- Hormonal changes - Decreased levels of growth hormones and testosterone in aging can contribute to reductions in muscle mass.
- Illnesses - Certain chronic or acute diseases are associated with muscle wasting, like cancer, kidney disease, heart failure, and inflammatory diseases.
The major health consequences of decreased muscle mass include:
- Physical weakness - With less muscular strength, daily activities can become more challenging. Things like climbing stairs, carrying groceries, or standing up from a chair can be affected.
- Mobility issues - Weak muscles lead to poor balance and increase the risk of falls and injuries. It also reduces agility and the ability to walk or move quickly.
- Metabolic effects - More muscle mass helps regulate blood sugar levels and boosts metabolism. Low muscle mass is linked to insulin resistance and higher body fat percentages.
- Reduced quality of life - The mobility limitations and loss of independence that comes with severe muscle loss can greatly reduce one's quality of life. It may increase social isolation and depression.
Fortunately, the age-related loss of muscle mass can be slowed down with the right interventions:
- Exercise - Engaging in regular strength training and weight-bearing/resistance exercises can help maintain or even build muscle as we age. Simple activities like walking, yoga, gardening, and housework also help.
- Protein intake - Consuming adequate high-quality protein (0.5 - 0.7 g per lb of body weight daily) provides the amino acids needed to stimulate muscle growth.
- Hormone therapy - Under a doctor's supervision, testosterone or growth hormone therapy may help counteract hormonal deficiencies that lead to muscle loss.
- Staying active - Keep using your muscles regularly in your daily routine to "use it or lose it." Even light physical activity makes a difference.
The muscle-building and hormone experts at Hormone Harmony Clinic can help diagnose the causes of decreased muscle mass. They offer customized treatment plans involving hormone optimization, nutrition planning, and lifestyle changes to help both men and women improve their strength, mobility, and vitality. *Contact Hormone Harmony Clinic today to learn more about their sarcopenia treatment options.* You don't have to accept muscle loss as an inevitable part of aging - take charge of your health and contact the caring medical team at Hormone Harmony Clinic now!