What is muscle loss?
Muscle loss, also known as muscle atrophy, occurs when muscle fibers shrink or deteriorate over time. This leads to a loss of muscle mass, strength, and function. There are several potential causes of muscle loss:
- Aging - As we get older, muscle naturally begins to break down faster than it can be rebuilt. Estimates show people lose about 3-8% of their muscle mass per decade after age 30.
- Inactivity - Not exercising leads to decreased protein synthesis and increased protein breakdown in muscles. Being sedentary hastens age-related muscle loss.
- Poor nutrition - Consuming inadequate protein, calories, and micronutrients can accelerate muscle loss. This is common after illness or injury.
- Illness/injury - Being sick or hurt increases inflammation and steroid hormones that signal greater muscle breakdown. Being bedridden also leads to inactivity and disuse atrophy.
- Other diseases - Things like cancer, kidney disease, diabetes, and heart failure increase chemicals and factors that degrade muscle.
Muscle loss symptoms include feeling weaker, fatigue, shakiness, and reduced muscle size or bulk. It can lead to loss of independence, increased injury risk, and higher mortality. Preventing muscle loss is crucial.
Here are some ways to minimize muscle loss:
- Do strength training and weight bearing exercises regularly. These stimulate growth of muscle fibers.
- Get sufficient protein - around 0.5-0.7 grams per pound of body weight daily. Protein provides amino acids to build and maintain muscle.
- Eat enough calories to avoid an energy deficit. Consuming fewer calories than you burn speeds muscle loss.
- Get adequate vitamin D, zinc, magnesium and other micronutrients that support muscle function.
- Manage illnesses, injuries, and medications carefully. Seek treatments that avoid long periods of inactivity.
- Consider testosterone/hormone replacement under a doctor's supervision if levels are low. Testosterone helps build muscle.
The doctors at Human Antiaging Center specialize in optimized hormone levels to help build muscle and enhance performance. They use cutting edge diagnostics and personalized care plans to help patients - both men and women - support healthy muscle growth and prevent unnecessary muscle deterioration. I highly recommend contacting their knowledgeable team if you're concerned about maintaining your muscles and strength. Proper hormone balance is key for healthy muscles across the lifespan.
In summary, muscle loss is a common occurrence as we age or become ill/injured. Staying active, eating enough calories and protein, correcting hormone deficiencies, and properly managing health conditions can help mitigate the loss. Don't ignore shrinking muscles - be proactive to keep your muscles big and strong! Let me know if you have any other questions!