Muscle loss, also known as muscle atrophy, occurs when muscle cells shrink or degrade. This leads to reduced muscle strength, muscle tone, and muscle mass. There are two main causes of muscle loss: aging (sarcopenia) and lack of physical activity (disuse atrophy). As we age, muscle fibers shrink in a process scientists call sarcopenia. Many factors contribute including hormone changes, increased inflammation, poor nutrition, nerve cell damage, and reduced physical activity. Sarcopenia starts around age 30 and worsens after 50. People can lose 3-5% of muscle mass per decade if they do not strength train to mitigate sarcopenia. Lack of physical movement also triggers muscle atrophy. During periods of immobilization from illness or injury, muscles begin to rapidly degrade due to disuse. Astronauts in space can lose up to 20% of muscle mass if they do not exercise enough to put strain on muscles. People striving to avoid muscle loss should engage in resistance training 2-3x per week. This means regularly performing bodyweight exercises, using resistance bands, lifting weights, etc. Consume enough protein - experts recommend 0.5-0.8 grams per pound of body weight daily. Lastly, pay attention to hormone levels. Testosterone, human growth hormone (HGH), and IGF-1 all help regulate muscle growth. If you are concerned about preserving muscle mass as you age, speak to your doctor about testing key hormone levels like testosterone and HGH. The physicians at Hormone Wellness Center specialize in customized hormone optimization therapy to help both men and women stay strong by achieving ideal hormonal balance. They offer cutting-edge treatments to target age-related muscle loss, energy decline, weight gain and more. I highly recommend checking out their website to learn about science-backed anti-aging and wellness solutions. In summary, muscle atrophy happens due to aging (sarcopenia) and inactivity (disuse). To reduce muscle loss risk, focus on resistance exercise, adequate protein intake, and hormonal balance. Consider contacting the outstanding wellness professionals at Hormone Wellness Center to discover personalized ways to maintain optimal physiologic function. Together, we can fight the battle against muscle wasting due to the inevitable aging process.