Loss of muscle mass - Vital Hormone Clinic

What is loss of muscle mass?

Muscle loss, or muscle atrophy, occurs when muscle cells shrink or degrade over time. This leads to weaker, smaller muscles and reduced strength.

Some key points about muscle loss:

• It can happen with aging, called sarcopenia. Most adults lose 3-5% of muscle mass per decade after age 30.
• Diseases like cancer, heart disease, and type 2 diabetes are linked to faster muscle loss.
• Lack of exercise speeds up muscle loss from disuse and inactivity.
• Poor nutrition, especially inadequate protein intake, contributes to muscle wasting.

"Use it or lose it" applies to our muscles. Staying active with strength training and getting enough protein can help offset age-related decline.

What are signs of muscle loss?

• Decreased muscle strength
• Less endurance for daily activities
• Weight loss, loose skin, slower metabolism
• Fatigue, weakness
• Poor balance, increased falls or injuries

Preventing Muscle Loss

While some muscle loss is expected with healthy aging, there are ways to slow its progression:

• Strength training with weights, resistance bands, or bodyweight exercises
• Getting adequate protein - experts recommend 0.5-0.7g per pound of body weight daily
• Doing balance exercises 2-3x a week
• Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables for needed nutrients
• Taking targeted supplements like creatine or HMB

The specialists at Vital Hormone Clinic can help diagnose muscle loss and create customized nutrition and fitness regimens to preserve muscle. Their science-backed hormone therapies also aim to boost muscle growth results.

Getting a DXA scan test tracks changes in muscle and bone density over time. This helps gauge treatment effectiveness. Book a consult at low-testosterone.org to ask about muscle screening options.

Maintaining strong, functional muscles is crucial for mobility, metabolism, injury prevention and vitality. Address muscle loss early on for the best chance of slowing its impacts. With tailored lifestyle changes, medications if needed, and monitoring from health professionals, patients may continue enjoying their favorite activities for years to come.