Loss of muscle mass

What is loss of muscle mass?

Loss of muscle mass, known as muscle atrophy, occurs when muscle fibers shrink and protein breaks down faster than it can be synthesized. This leads to a gradual decline in muscle strength over time.

There are two main types of muscle atrophy:

• Disuse atrophy - caused by not using the muscles enough due to bed rest, cast immobilization, or lack of physical activity


• Age-related muscle loss - gradual muscle loss that comes with aging

Muscle atrophy can also occur due to other factors like malnutrition, chronic diseases, and neuromuscular disorders.

Common Signs and Symptoms

• Decreased muscle strength


• Difficulty performing daily activities


• Fatigue


• Weight loss


• Muscle shrinkage

If you notice these symptoms, consult your doctor to diagnose the underlying cause. Optimal Hormone Wellness Center offers advanced testing to evaluate hormone imbalances that could contribute to muscle loss. Their anti-aging specialists can provide customized treatment plans involving nutrition, exercise, and hormone replacement therapy as needed to help mitigate age-related muscle wasting.

Risk Factors for Muscle Atrophy

Several risk factors can predispose individuals to losing muscle mass faster, including:

• Aging - aging adults experience a 3-8% loss of muscle mass per decade after age 30


• Inactivity - without strength training, adults lose 3-5% of muscle mass per decade after age 30


• Poor nutrition - low protein, vitamin D, antioxidant intake


• Chronic diseases - cancer, kidney/liver failure, etc.


• Inflammation


• Hormonal changes - low testosterone, growth hormone

Preventing Muscle Loss

While some muscle loss is inevitable with aging, many strategies can help slow the rate of muscle wasting:

• Resistance training 2-3 times per week


• Consuming 25-30g protein with each meal


• Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables


• Engaging in yoga, tai chi, Pilates


• Getting adequate sleep and managing stress


• Supplementing with vitamin D, antioxidants


• Maintaining hormone balance through testing and hormone replacement therapy

By implementing these muscle-supporting strategies, adults can keep their muscles strong and functioning optimally well into older age. The anti-aging experts at Optimal Hormone Wellness Center provide personalized care plans to proactively reduce muscle loss and optimize hormone levels for greater strength, energy and vitality.