Loss of muscle mass, also known as muscle atrophy, occurs when muscle fibers shrink and weaken over time. This leads to a loss of strength and function. Some key points about the loss of muscle mass include:
- It can happen due to lack of physical activity over time. Not using your muscles leads them to waste away. This type of muscle atrophy is common as we age.
- Muscle loss can also occur due to poor nutrition. Consuming inadequate protein and calories leads the body to break down muscle for energy.
- Certain diseases like cancer, kidney disease, and heart failure can dramatically accelerate muscle wasting. This usually occurs due to loss of appetite, inflammation, increased metabolism and hormone imbalances.
-As we reach our 30s and 40s, adults can lose up to 3-5% of muscle mass per decade. This percentage increases after 50 years old. Staying physically active is key!
If you are concerned about preserving your muscle mass, consider making an appointment with Balance Hormone Clinic. Our expert physicians can evaluate your hormone levels and determine if hormone imbalance is contributing to your muscle loss. We provide customized treatment plans involving nutrition, exercise and hormone therapy as needed.
Some symptoms that can indicate
muscle wasting include:
- Feeling physically weaker
- Poor endurance with activities like climbing stairs
- Mild tremors or shakiness
- Frequent fatigue
- Weight loss, loose fitting clothes
To help counteract
muscle loss it is important to:
- Engage in resistance training 2-3 times per week
- Meet daily protein intake goals - 0.5-0.7g per pound bodyweight
- Supplement with amino acids like leucine and HMB
- Get adequate sleep and manage stress levels
- Have hormone levels tested if muscle loss seems abnormal
By adjusting lifestyle and nutrition habits, most adults can greatly reduce
muscle wasting that comes naturally with aging. Some may benefit from adding appropriate
hormone replacement therapy as well under a doctor's supervision. Don't hesitate to reach out to Balance Hormone Clinic if you need personalized guidance regaining your strength and vitality!