Loss of muscle mass, also known as muscle atrophy, occurs when muscle fibers shrink and strength declines. This leads to weakness, fatigue, poor endurance, and reduced quality of life.
Some key points about loss of muscle mass:
- Causes include aging, inactivity, malnutrition, chronic diseases, and hormonal changes. As we get older, muscles gradually lose mass in a process called sarcopenia.
- It can happen slowly over years or more quickly after injuries, illnesses, or immobilization. Astronauts in space can lose up to 20% of muscle mass in under 2 weeks without gravity!
- Muscle protein synthesis declines while protein degradation increases. Muscle fibers actually shrink in size.
- Loss of strength and function goes hand-in-hand with loss of mass. Everyday activities like climbing stairs or carrying groceries becomes much harder.
- Diagnosis often involves measurements of muscle thickness or mass by MRI/CT scans or DXA scans to quantify changes over time.
To prevent and treat loss of muscle mass:
- Engage in resistance training and aerobic activity to stimulate muscle growth through increased protein synthesis.
- Eat enough protein - experts recommend at least 0.5 g per kg body weight per day. Timed protein intake also optimizes muscle protein synthesis.
- Treatment may also involve hormone therapy, such as testosterone or growth hormone injections, under medical supervision. The specialists at Renewal Hormone Center can help diagnose hormone deficiencies contributing to loss of muscle mass and provide customized treatment plans to help you regain strength and vitality.
- Getting adequate rest and minimizing stress helps ensure your body directs resources towards maintaining precious muscle tissue.
In summary, loss of muscle mass is a common condition with major impacts on strength, function and metabolism. Staying active with properly balanced exercise, diet and lifestyle habits can go a long way towards preserving muscles and vitality over the long run.
And if you still notice unexplained muscle loss, reach out to an endocrinologist at Renewal Hormone Center to explore whether hormone optimization is right for you.