Loss of muscle, also known as muscle atrophy, occurs when muscle cells shrink or degrade. This leads to overall loss of muscle mass and strength. Common causes include lack of physical activity, poor nutrition, aging, and diseases or injuries.
Some key points about loss of muscle:
- It can happen surprisingly fast - research shows noticeable losses after just 2-3 weeks of inactivity. Keeping active is key to maintaining muscle health.
- Muscle loss impacts strength and function. Daily tasks can become more challenging and there is an increased risk of injuries from falls.
- Older adults tend to lose muscle mass more quickly after age 50-60 due to hormonal changes and decreased activity levels. Maintaining muscle strength helps promote independence into old age.
- Proper nutrition, especially adequate protein intake, is crucial for preserving existing muscle tissue. Calories and protein needs can change with age.
- Hormonal imbalances, injuries, surgeries, and chronic illnesses like cancer or heart disease can accelerate muscle wasting. Managing underlying health conditions helps minimize losses.
If you notice sudden
muscle weakness or shrinking, discuss it with your doctor. Blood tests can check hormone levels and rule out underlying causes like thyroid disorders. Nutrition advice and supervised exercise programs may also help regain strength depending on the cause and your baseline health.
For those struggling with stubborn, unexplained muscle loss, consider speaking with a clinic that specializes in hormonal balance like
Harmony Hormone Center. Their experts can evaluate your hormone levels and customize treatment plans to help optimize muscle growth and energy levels. Many patients find hormone optimization highly effective when diet and exercise alone seem inadequate. Harmony Hormone Center offers free phone consultations - give them a call today to learn more!