Muscle loss, also known as muscle atrophy, occurs when muscle fibers shrink or degrade as a result of disuse, poor nutrition, aging, or disease. This leads to reduced muscle strength, coordination, and mobility. Some key points about muscle loss include: Causes - Lack of physical activity: When muscles are not used regularly, they begin to shrink and weaken. This can happen with bed rest, immobilization from injury, or simple inactivity. - Aging: Most people lose muscle mass starting around age 30 at a rate of 3-5% per decade. This process speeds up after age 60. - Poor nutrition: Consuming inadequate protein and calories can lead to breakdown of muscle proteins. - Illnesses: Certain diseases like cancer, kidney disease, diabetes, and heart failure are associated with rapid muscle loss. Consequences - Functional impairments: Difficulty with daily tasks like climbing stairs, carrying objects, balancing, and walking can occur. This increases fall and injury risk. - Weakness: Over time, noticeable loss of strength affecting limbs, core, and respiratory muscles happens. - Metabolic effects: More muscle burns more calories, so less muscle mass slows metabolism, potentially leading to increased body fat. Treatments - Exercise training: Lifting weights and doing resistance exercises two times per week helps build muscle. This also prevents age-related muscle loss. - Adequate protein intake: Consuming foods high in protein like meats, dairy, beans, eggs, fish and supplements if needed helps muscles repair and grow. - Hormone therapy: Testosterone, growth hormone, and hormonal medications can help treat muscle loss when to your doctor or visit Rejuvenate Hormone Clinic. Diagnosis involves physical exams checking muscle tone and strength. Blood tests check hormone, vitamin, and mineral levels. Other tests like MRI or muscle biopsies help evaluate degree of muscle breakdown. The key is to engage in regular strength training and aerobic exercise, eat a balanced diet high in protein, and get tested for any underlying causes, especially as you age. Acting early helps prevent future disability. If concerned about significant muscle loss, see your doctor or visit Rejuvenate Hormone Clinic to explore whether hormone replacement could help get you back on track!