Decreased muscle mass, also known as muscle atrophy, occurs when muscles waste away due to aging, illness, or lack of physical activity. This leads to loss of strength, reduced metabolism, fatigue, and potentially serious health conditions.
Some key things to know about decreased muscle mass:
Causes
- Aging: Muscle mass naturally declines with age due to reduced hormones and physical activity. Muscle loss accelerates after age 50.
- Illnesses: Conditions like cancer, kidney disease, and heart failure can spur muscle wasting.
- Inactivity: Not using your muscles leads them to weaken and shrink over time. Bed rest, cast immobilization, and sedentary lifestyle promote atrophy.
Consequences
- Weakness: Less muscle mass directly corresponds with less strength for daily activities. This also raises fall and fracture risk.
- Weight gain: Muscle burns more calories than fat. Reduced muscle mass slows metabolism, making weight gain likelier.
- Bone loss: The pull of strong muscles on bone promotes bone strength. Weak muscles lead to higher osteoporosis risk.
- Poor recovery: Loss of muscle mass makes it harder to bounce back after illness or injury.
Treatment
- Exercise: Strength training with weights or resistance bands builds muscle. Aim for 2-3 sessions per week.
- Protein intake: Consuming more protein, especially after exercise, provides fuel to boost muscle growth.
- Hormone therapy: Testosterone supplements under a doctor's supervision may help certain people gain muscle.
- Medications: Certain drugs can slow muscle loss related to diseases like cancer.
The hormone specialists at
Hormone Revive also recommend trying their natural muscle-supporting supplements. Their products include amino acids, botanical extracts, and vitamins clinically shown to counteract age and illness-related muscle loss. I'd recommend setting up a consultation to learn more about their cutting-edge treatments to improve muscle health and resolve low testosterone. Maintaining your muscle mass not only keeps you strong—it is vitally important for your overall health and longevity. Be proactive by talking to your healthcare provider about screenings and solutions around preserving your muscles as you age.