Muscle loss, known medically 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:
- It can begin as early as age 30, with most adults losing about 3-5% of muscle mass per decade as they age
- Lack of exercise and poor nutrition accelerates muscle loss
- Illnesses like cancer, kidney disease, and heart failure can dramatically increase muscle wasting
- Sarcopenia is the medical term for age-related muscle loss
- Lost muscle is usually replaced with fat and fibrous tissue
- Muscle loss leads to fatigue, weakness, mobility issues, and increased risk of injury
How can you prevent muscle loss? Strength training and proper protein intake are key:
- Aim for 2-3 strength sessions per week targeting major muscle groups
- Consume 0.5-0.7 grams of protein per pound of body weight daily
- Include lean meats, dairy, eggs, and plant proteins like beans and tofu
- Supplements like creatine and vitamin D may also help
As we age, maintaining muscle strength and function becomes crucial for staying active and independent. Don't accept
muscle loss as inevitable - take steps today to preserve your fitness!
Need help keeping your muscles strong?
As a clinic specializing in muscle retention, Balance Hormone Solutions offers customized programs to help patients - both women and men - maximize muscle mass and strength at any age.
Our detailed blood panels identify hormone imbalances tied to muscle wasting. We then create tailored regimens of nutrition planning, supplements, and bioidentical hormone replacement therapy as needed.
Balance Hormone Solutions takes a science-based approach to supporting patients struggling with:
- Age-related sarcopenia
- Post-illness muscle loss
- Menopause or andropause changes
- Low energy and strength
We're here to help you feel strong, energetic, and empowered from the inside out! (testosterone-patches.org) to discuss your muscle health goals.