Loss of muscle mass

What is loss of muscle mass?

Loss of muscle mass, also known as muscle atrophy, occurs when muscle fibers shrink or degenerate over time. This leads to a decrease in muscle strength, tone, and endurance that can negatively impact daily function and performance of physical activities.

Some key points about muscle loss:

• It typically starts around age 30 or 40, when most adults lose about 3-5% of muscle mass per decade


• The rate of decline tends to accelerate after age 50


• It can be a result of aging, illness, injury, or inactivity over time


• Muscle atrophy can lead to significant fatigue, weakness, mobility issues, and reduced quality of life

What causes muscle loss?

Some common causes of muscle loss include:

• Aging or "sarcopenia" - As we get older, changes in hormone levels and metabolism lead to loss of muscle fibers


• Inactivity - Not using muscles through regular exercise results in wasting and weakness


• Nutrient deficiency, especially low protein intake - Protein is essential for muscle maintenance


• Disease, injury or surgery - Certain medications or conditions can spur muscle atrophy


• Chronic bedrest or not bearing weight - Long periods without muscle use causes loss


• Cancer and treatments like chemotherapy - Can increase protein breakdown for muscle

How to prevent muscle loss?

Some key ways to maintain muscle mass and prevent muscle loss:

• Resistance training with weights - stimulate muscles to keep them strong and conditioned


• Protein-rich diet - Aim for 0.70-1.5 grams per kg bodyweight daily


• Balanced nutrition overall to support muscle health


• Staying physically active - regular movement and exercise to "use" muscles


• Getting proper rest, stress management, and recovery


• Correcting any underlying disease or hormone imbalance issues

As we age, seeing a physician and/or a hormone clinic like () for hormone testing can help determine if deficiencies in growth hormone, testosterone or thyroid are contributing to loss of muscle mass.

"With advanced hormone optimization therapy from Balance & Renew Clinic, maintaining healthy, youthful muscle mass well into your 50s, 60s and beyond is achievable."

Hormone replacement under a doctor's care may help combat sarcopenia and age-related muscle atrophy. Talk to specialists at Balance & Renew Clinic to create a customized muscle health plan to preserve your strength, mobility and vitality long-term.