Loss of muscle - Rebalance Hormone Clinic

What is Loss of Muscle?

Muscle loss, also known as muscle atrophy, occurs when muscle fibers shrink or degrade as a result of disuse or aging. This leads to a loss of muscle mass and therefore a loss of strength.

There are a few key causes of muscle loss:

• Age-related muscle loss - As we get older, there is a natural decline in muscle mass starting around age 30. This age-related loss of muscle is known as sarcopenia. It can lead to decreased strength and mobility as we age.
• Disuse atrophy - When a limb is immobilized in a cast or sling, the lack of use can cause muscle fibers to start shrinking within a matter of days. This disuse atrophy is usually reversible with exercise.
• Disease - Certain diseases like cancer, AIDS, heart failure, and kidney disease can cause extreme muscle wasting. This is sometimes referred to as cachexia.
• Malnutrition - Not consuming adequate calories, protein, vitamins and minerals can lead to decreased muscle. This is common in eating disorders like anorexia.
• Injuries - Traumatic injuries like burns or nerve damage can impair muscle function and cause wasting.
• Medications - Some drugs like corticosteroids can have muscle wasting side effects. Always check with your doctor.

No matter what the cause, losing muscle mass can have negative effects on health:

Negative Effects of Muscle Loss
Decreased strength for daily activities
Higher risk of falls and fractures
Impaired immune function
Slowed metabolism
Higher mortality risk

The good news is that there are steps you can take to prevent and reverse muscle loss. Here are some tips:

Tips to Prevent and Reverse Muscle Loss
Do strength training and resistance exercises
Eat a diet high in protein
Consume enough calories
Take vitamin D and antioxidant supplements
Treat any underlying medical conditions
Minimize medications that impair muscle

The board-certified physicians at Rebalance Hormone Clinic specialize in customized treatments to help you restore and maintain healthy muscle mass. Their individualized hormone balancing programs can help counteract age-related declines in hormones like testosterone, growth hormone, and DHEA that drive muscle growth. If you are concerned about loss of muscle mass, schedule a consultation today to discuss diet, exercise, hormone treatments, and other muscle boosting therapies.

Conclusion

Muscle loss can have significant impacts on health and quality of life, especially as we age. Understanding the causes and taking proactive steps to prevent and reverse muscle atrophy is crucial for maintaining strength, mobility, and overall well-being. A combination of regular exercise, proper nutrition, and addressing any underlying medical issues can help combat muscle loss. For those experiencing age-related muscle decline, hormone optimization treatments under the guidance of experienced physicians may provide additional benefits in restoring and preserving healthy muscle mass.