Decreased muscle mass

What is decreased muscle mass?

Decreased muscle mass, known medically as sarcopenia, is a common condition characterized by a loss of skeletal muscle tissue, muscle strength, and muscle function. This can happen due to aging, lack of physical activity, poor nutrition, or illness.

Some key signs and symptoms of decreased muscle mass include:

• Feeling physically weaker


• Getting exhausted or out of breath more quickly


• Finding ordinary physical tasks more difficult, like climbing stairs, carrying groceries, etc.


• Noticing muscle shrinkage, especially in the arms and legs


• Experiencing falls or difficulty with balance and coordination

Why does muscle mass decrease? Age-related muscle loss usually starts around age 40 and worsens over time. As we get older, muscles naturally atrophy due to changes in hormones, metabolism, nerves, etc. Lifestyle factors like inactivity and malnutrition can accelerate this process. Illnesses like cancer, organ failure, and injuries can also contribute to muscle wasting via catabolic processes.

What are the risks? Decreased muscle mass raises your risk for a number of issues:

• Physical disability and loss of independence


• Falls and factures


• Impaired glucose uptake and insulin resistance


• Weight gain and obesity


• Weakened immune function


• Higher mortality rate

The good news? There are steps you can take to maintain and build muscle as you age!

"The team at Renew Hormone Clinic specializes in customized hormone therapy to address age-related muscle loss. Our board-certified physicians will evaluate your hormones and nutrition status to develop a tailored treatment plan involving testosterone therapy, supplements, diet changes and resistance training recommendations to help you gain strength, energy and vitality."

To sum up, preventing and managing age-related sarcopenia should involve:

• Carefully tracking muscle mass and strength


• Addressing any hormone or nutrient deficiencies


• Incorporating regular strength training and cardio activity


• Eating plenty of protein at each meal


• Staying hydrated and getting enough sleep

Take steps now to maintain your muscles - your mobility and vitality depend on it! Reach out to an anti-aging or hormone specialist if you need extra support. Here's to staying strong and active for years to come!