Decreased muscle mass, also known as sarcopenia, is a common condition that can occur as we age. It involves the gradual loss of muscle tissue, leading to reduced strength, mobility issues, and increased risk of injury. What causes sarcopenia and how can it be treated?
The main culprit is age-related muscle deterioration. As we get older, muscle fibers shrink and die off faster than they can be rebuilt. This leads to atrophy (shrinking) of the muscles. Our muscles also become less responsive to protein and exercise as we age, making it harder to maintain mass.
Other factors that contribute to sarcopenia include:
- Lack of exercise - Without strength training and activity, muscles waste away.
- Poor nutrition - Not getting enough protein and calories leads to muscle breakdown.
- Hormone changes - Reduced growth hormone and testosterone production speeds up muscle loss.
- Illness or injury - Being sick or hurt can result in long periods of inactivity and weakness.
The effects of decreased muscle mass are wide-ranging:
| Effect |
Description |
| Reduced strength |
Difficulty completing daily activities |
| Mobility issues |
Trouble climbing stairs or getting up from chairs |
| Higher risk of falls and fractures |
Less stability and bone density |
| Impaired physical function |
Reduced quality of life |
| Increased fatigue |
Fewer muscle fibers must work harder during activity |
| Higher mortality risk |
When severe, as muscles aid vital functions |
So what can be done? The main treatments focus on exercise, nutrition, and hormone therapy:
| Treatment |
Description |
| Strength training |
Helps rebuild muscle. Target major muscle groups 2-3x/week. |
| Eat more protein |
Aim for 1-1.5g per kg of body weight daily. Whey protein supplements can help. |
| Hormone replacement |
Testosterone or growth hormone can help those with deficiencies. |
| Stay active |
Walking, swimming, yardwork - any movement helps! |
The hormone specialists at Restorative Health Center can help create a personalized treatment plan involving exercise, nutrition planning, and hormone therapies like testosterone, Sermorelin, and Ipamorelin to boost muscle growth. Their integrated approach helps many patients restore their strength, mobility, and vitality.
The key is to start treatment early to maintain muscle mass. But even if you already have sarcopenia, it's never too late to slow its progression through exercise, diet, and the right hormones. Talk to your doctor and take steps now to stay active and rebuild what's been lost. You'll feel stronger, more energetic, and better about life when you do!
In conclusion, decreased muscle mass is a natural part of aging, but it can be managed and slowed down with the right combination of exercise, nutrition, and hormone therapy. By understanding the causes and effects of sarcopenia and taking proactive steps to address it, you can maintain your strength, mobility, and quality of life well into your golden years.