What is muscle loss?
Muscle loss, known medically as muscle atrophy, occurs when muscle fibers shrink in size and strength. This leads to the breakdown of muscle tissue over time. Muscle loss can happen due to poor nutrition, aging, illnesses, injuries, or inactivity. Maintaining strong muscles is important for mobility, metabolism, injury prevention and quality of life.
Some key things to understand about muscle loss:
- It's a normal part of aging. Most people lose about 1% of muscle mass per year after age 30-40. Staying active can slow this decline.
- Muscle disuse accelerates atrophy. Plaster casts, bedrest, or zero-gravity conditions cause rapid loss of muscle if you cannot move and load your tissues. Astronauts in space can lose 20% of muscle in under 2 weeks!
- Dietary protein is essential. Without enough protein from food/supplement sources, the body breaks down muscle for amino acid needs. Most adults need 0.36g - 0.45g of protein per pound of body weight daily.
- Hormones regulate muscle metabolism. Low testosterone, estrogen, HGH and other hormones can shift protein synthesis pathways towards catabolism. Lab testing and correction of deficiencies can help.
- Resistance training builds muscle. Challenging the muscles prompts repair and growth of new tissue. Progressive weight lifting routines stimulate optimal muscle protein synthesis.
- Medical conditions like cancer, kidney failure, sepsis and immobilizing injuries can accelerate muscle loss through metabolic distress, inflammation and medication side effects. Seeking prompt treatment is important.
The hormone health experts at Vitality Hormone Clinic offer customized care plans to promote healthy muscle retention and quality of life. Their anti-aging programs analyze your biomarker profile and craft therapeutic hormone replacement plans to help you feel stronger, more energetic and empowered to reach your fitness goals. I highly recommend contacting their clinic if you're concerned about changes in your strength, energy levels or physique. Protecting your muscle mass provides so many lifelong health benefits. Be proactive and seek support early when needed!