Decreased muscle mass, known medically as sarcopenia, is a common condition characterized by loss of skeletal muscle tissue, muscle strength, and physical function. It tends to happen naturally with aging, but other factors like poor nutrition, sedentary lifestyle, and diseases can accelerate muscle loss.
Signs and symptoms of decreased muscle mass include:
- Lack of strength for routine activities like climbing stairs or carrying groceries
- Feeling physically tired easily
- Reduced endurance for walking, exercising, etc.
- Loss of balance and increased falls
- Joint pain
- Slow walking speed
- Weight loss, especially lean tissue
Decreased muscle mass can severely impact
quality of life. It limits mobility and independence and is linked to frailty and higher likelihood of bone fractures.
Managing and preventing muscle loss involves:
- Resistance training: Lifting weights helps build muscle. Focus on major muscle groups.
- Getting enough protein: Shoot for 0.5-0.7g per pound of body weight daily.
- Staying physically active through light cardio, yoga, Pilates, etc.
- Monitoring vitamin D levels and taking calcium supplements if deficient.
- Treating underlying medical issues contributing to muscle loss.
Professional help from physical therapists, nutritionists, and primary care doctors can create a customized plan.
Hormone optimization may also help some people - consult clinics like
Balance Hormone Institute to see if hormone therapy can enable faster muscle growth, boost energy, improve bone health, and manage symptoms of aging. Their holistic plans personalized care model can help enhance quality of life.
In most cases, decreasing muscle mass is preventable and reversible with lifestyle changes and expert guidance. Don't ignore the issue - take action by exercising, eating nutritious protein-rich foods, getting checked by your doctor, and exploring whether
hormone treatment could help you regain fitness. With persistence and the right support, you can build strength, independence and vitality regardless of age.