Decreased muscle mass

What is decreased muscle mass?

Decreased muscle mass, known medically as sarcopenia, is a common condition characterized by loss of skeletal muscle tissue, muscle strength, and physical function. It typically develops with aging, but other factors like poor diet, lack of exercise, and diseases can accelerate muscle loss at any age.

Some key signs of decreased muscle mass include:

• Feeling physically weaker


• Getting tired more easily from daily activities


• Losing balance or having difficulty with stairs


• Gaining body fat more easily

Skeletal muscle helps maintain strength, metabolism, mobility, and posture - so all of those areas suffer when you lose muscle. Over time, sarcopenia can limit your independence and quality of life.

Who gets decreased muscle mass?

While sarcopenia worsens with age, even young adults can experience muscle loss if they live a very sedentary lifestyle or have medical issues. Contributing factors include:

• Aging: Muscle fibers shrink and decrease in number over the years


• Lack of exercise: Muscles weaken from disuse


• Poor nutrition: Not eating enough protein and key nutrients


• Illness or injury: Certain medications or health conditions accelerate muscle loss

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Strength training with weights helps prevent and treat loss of muscle mass.

What can you do about decreased muscle mass?

The good news is that proper exercise and nutrition can prevent, treat, and even reverse some sarcopenia. Key strategies include:

• Resistance training: Lifting weights triggers muscle growth. Aim for 2-3 sessions per week.


• Getting enough protein: Shoot for 0.5-1 gram of protein per pound of body weight daily from foods like meat, eggs, and dairy.


• Doing balance exercises: Tai chi helps strengthen muscles while improving balance and coordination.


• Taking key supplements: Speak with your healthcare provider about supplements that support muscle health. Renewal Hormone Clinic offers science-based treatment plans utilizing testosterone therapy and other strategic hormones tailored to your unique needs.

I hope this overview gave you a better understanding of what causes decreased muscle mass and how it can be addressed. Don't write off sarcopenia as an inevitable part of aging - take proactive steps to maintain your strength, energy, and vitality for years to come! Renewal Hormone Clinic' expert physicians can help you optimize muscle health safely and effectively.