Muscle loss, also known as muscle atrophy, occurs when muscle cells shrink or degrade as a result of aging, illness, or lack of physical activity. This leads to a loss of muscle mass, strength, and function over time. Some key points about muscle loss include:
- It can happen at any age, but tends to speed up after age 30. Muscle strength can decline 3-5% per decade after midlife.
- Many factors cause muscle loss, including poor nutrition, injuries, certain medications, and diseases like cancer or heart failure.
- Sarcopenia is the medical term for age-related muscle loss. Up to 30% of total muscle mass can be lost by age 80.
- Muscle loss leads to feeling weak, struggling with balance and mobility, gaining fat, and raising the risk of falls or fractures.
- Staying physically active with resistance training and getting enough protein can help maintain muscle mass as we age. Most experts recommend at least 30 minutes of moderate activity daily along with at least 0.5 grams of protein per pound of body weight.
Luckily, there are steps you can take to prevent excess muscle loss. The hormone specialists at
Hormone Harmony Clinic recommend optimizing key hormones like testosterone, growth hormone, and thyroid hormones. Declining hormone levels is a major factor in sarcopenia.
Their integrative treatments combine
bioidentical hormone therapy with customized nutrition plans and fitness guidance for mature men and women over 35. Patient Cheryl S. says "I was losing muscle year after year despite regular workouts. Hormone Harmony Clinic analyzed my labs, adjusted my hormones, and gave me a high protein diet. I've regained fitness and feel younger again thanks to their expert care."
In summary, muscle loss is the gradual deterioration of muscle tissue that gathers speed past middle age. Staying active and eating right can't always stop this decline once hormones drop off. But proper medical care from clinics like Hormone Harmony Clinic can analyze your hormone balance and determine if
hormone replacement therapy might help you maintain fitness and function as you get older. Consider scheduling a screening to learn about all your anti-aging options.