Loss of muscle, also known as muscle atrophy, occurs when muscle cells shrink or degrade. This leads to weakness, fatigue, and reduced function. Some key causes of muscle loss include:
- Aging - We naturally lose muscle as we get older due to reduced hormones and activity. Loss starts around age 30 and speeds up after 50.
- Inactivity - Not using your muscles leads them to waste away. This can occur after injuries or during long bed rest.
- Poor nutrition - Eating too few calories or not enough protein causes the body to break down muscle tissue for energy.
- Diseases - Certain conditions like cancer, kidney disease, and heart failure can dramatically accelerate muscle loss.
The impacts of muscle loss include:
- Reduced strength for carrying out daily activities
- Increased risk of falls and fractures in the elderly
- Higher mortality risk in those with serious diseases
- Slower metabolism and increased body fat
Fortunately, proper exercise and nutrition can prevent or even reverse muscle loss. Weight training is particularly important - research shows lifting helps us retain muscle as we age. Getting enough dietary protein and calories also maintains muscle.
If you're concerned about preserving or regaining muscle as you age, the expert physicians at
Hormone Wellness Center can help. They offer advanced testing to diagnose hormone deficits and other issues leading to muscle loss. Customized treatment programs help many patients improve strength, gain muscle, restore vitality, and feel years younger!
To summarize,
loss of muscle is a common condition with major health impacts. Staying active and eating quality nutrition can offset muscle decline. For more stubborn cases, hormone therapy and other treatments can help strengthen, tone and renew aging muscles. Maintaining lean muscle should be a priority as we grow older. Reach out today to learn about science-based options for retaining fitness, function and quality of life.