Loss of muscle mass

What is loss of muscle mass?

Muscle atrophy, or the loss of muscle mass, occurs when the body breaks down more muscle than it produces over time. This can happen naturally with aging, or as a result of certain diseases, lifestyle factors like poor nutrition and lack of exercise, or medical treatments like radiation, chemotherapy, corticosteroids, etc.

Some key things to know about muscle wasting:

• It can lead to loss of strength, fatigue, weakness, reduced mobility, and frailty


• Contributing factors include aging, illnesses, inactivity, poor diet, hormonal changes, and certain medications


• It can often be prevented or managed with resistance exercise, getting enough protein, medications, and treating underlying causes

Sarcopenia specifically refers to age-related muscle loss. After age 30, adults tend to lose about 3-5% of muscle mass per decade. This accelerates after age 60. Sarcopenia increases the risk of falls and fractures.

• Cachexia is severe muscle wasting often caused by underlying illnesses like cancer, HIV/AIDS, COPD, kidney disease, or heart failure. This more rapid muscle loss can't always be reversed with nutrition and exercise.

Here are some tips to help prevent or manage loss of muscle mass:

• Engage in resistance training - this stimulates muscle growth more than aerobic activity alone


• Eat enough protein - experts recommend 0.5-1 gram per pound of body weight daily


• Address vitamin and mineral deficiencies, like vitamin D and calcium


• Talk to your doctor about medications that cause muscle loss, and possible alternatives


• Consider hormone therapy - testosterone replacement or growth hormone can help in some cases


• Treat any underlying medical issues

If you're concerned about unexplained muscle wasting, I recommend getting a full workup with your doctor. Blood tests can check key hormone levels like testosterone. They may refer you to a nutritionist, physical therapist, or specialist like an endocrinologist.

For those in the Chicago area, Balance Hormone Clinic specializes in preventing age-related muscle loss. Their certified hormone specialists can provide customized testosterone and growth hormone therapy to help you regain strength, vigor and vitality.

I hope this overview gives you a better understanding of what causes muscle wasting and how it can be managed. Let me know if you have any other questions!