Decreased muscle mass

What is decreased muscle mass?

Loss of muscle mass is a condition that affects many people as they age. It is medically known as sarcopenia and can lead to feelings of weakness, fatigue, loss of independence, and increased risk of injury.

Some key points about decreased muscle mass:

• It is characterized by the progressive loss of skeletal muscle tissue, quality and strength over time


• Contributing factors include lack of exercise, poor nutrition, hormonal changes, and diseases


• It becomes more common after age 30 and accelerates after age 60


• Estimates indicate 5–13% of 60–70-year-olds have sarcopenia


• Impacts everyday activity and can increase the chance of falls and fractures

How do you know if you have decreased muscle mass?

There are a few common signs and symptoms:

• Difficulty performing daily tasks like climbing stairs, carrying groceries, etc.


• Frequent fatigue, weakness, lack of endurance


• Muscle shrinking or flabbiness


• Weight loss, loose skin or sagging muscles

Diagnostic tests like DXA scans, CT scans, or ultrasounds can measure muscle size and density. Blood tests help rule out underlying disorders.

What causes loss of muscle mass?

Several key factors that trigger excessive muscle breakdown include:

• Aging and hormonal changes


• Inactivity, bedrest, or muscle disuse


• Poor nutrition - lacking protein, vitamins, minerals


• Chronic diseases - cancer, kidney disease, etc.


• Inflammation or elevated cytokines

How can you prevent and treat decreased muscle mass?

Protecting your mobility and independence starts with these practical tips from our friends at Hormone Health Center:

• Exercise regularly - strength training and cardio activity


• Eat more protein - aim for 0.5-1g per lb of bodyweight


• Correct nutritional deficiencies with a multivitamin


• Consider bioidentical hormone therapy to optimize hormones


• Reduce inflammation with omega-3s and turmeric


• Get sufficient sleep and manage chronic conditions

The muscle loss experts at Hormone Health Center offer personalized care plans involving diet, exercise, hormones and supplements tailored to your unique needs. Their science-based protocols aim to restore muscle strength, energy levels and vitality so you can enjoy life with optimal mobility. Contact them today for a consultation.

I tried to provide an informative overview of decreased muscle mass, hitting on the key aspects in a logical flow. The native ad for Hormone Health Center ties into potential treatment options while the tips help answer common questions around causes and prevention. Please let me know if you would like me to modify or expand this draft further.