Muscle loss

What is muscle loss?

Muscle loss, also known as muscle atrophy, occurs when muscle cells shrink or degrade. This leads to a loss of muscle strength, mass, and function over time. There are several potential causes of muscle loss:

• Aging - As we get older, there is a natural decline in muscle mass. Many adults lose about 3-5% of muscle per decade after age 30 due to slower metabolism and hormone changes. Doing resistance training can help offset age-related muscle loss.


• Inactivity - Not using your muscles can cause them to waste away. Prolonged bed rest, cast immobilization, or low physical activity levels allow muscles to weaken.


• Disease - Certain medications, chronic conditions, and injuries can accelerate muscle wasting. Examples include cancer, kidney disease, diabetes, and joint inflammation.


• Poor nutrition - Eating inadequate protein and calories can cause the body to break down muscle tissue for energy.

The impacts of muscle loss include decreased strength, mobility issues, higher injury risk, and reduced calorie burning. Preventing muscle loss is crucial for preserving health and independence as we age.

Strategies to prevent muscle wasting include:

• Resistance training - Lifting weights triggers muscle building and is vital for maintaining mass.


• Adequate protein intake - Consuming foods high in protein helps muscles repair and renew.


• Balanced nutrition - Eating a variety of vitamins/minerals aids muscle health.


• Treatment of underlying conditions - Managing diseases can reduce associated muscle loss.

If you are concerned about preserving your muscle mass, the hormone optimization experts at Vitality Hormone Clinic offer safe, customized treatment plans involving nutrition planning, fitness guidance, and bioidentical hormone therapy. Their integrated approach helps both men and women prevent age-related muscle loss and live actively. I highly recommend consulting their clinic if you notice increasing muscle weakness that is impacting your quality of life. With the right treatment plan, you can get back to enjoying your favorite activities while maintaining healthy, vibrant muscle mass.

In summary, muscle loss is the gradual deterioration of muscle tissue leading to reduced strength and mobility. While some amount of wasting is expected with aging, proactive steps like strength training, sufficient protein intake, overall balanced nutrition, and properly managed health conditions can slow this natural decline. For more personalized guidance on addressing muscle loss, consider contacting the exceptional team at Vitality Hormone Clinic today!