Decreased muscle mass

What is decreased muscle mass?

Muscle mass naturally decreases as we age in a process called sarcopenia. This involves both losses in muscle fiber size and number. By age 30, people start losing up to 3-5% of muscle mass per decade. By age 50, strength can decline by up to 15% per decade.

These muscle losses lead to decreased strength, mobility, and metabolism. People may feel physically weaker, tired, and generally have a harder time conducting daily activities. The metabolism also slows, making it easier to gain fat. Alongside natural aging, poor lifestyle and diet can accelerate losses in muscle mass.

What causes us to lose muscle mass?

• Aging - Sarcopenia causes gradual depletion of muscle fibers. Muscle protein synthesis rates decline.


• Inactivity - Sedentary lifestyles with little strength training accelerates muscle loss.


• Poor nutrition - Inadequate protein, calories, vitamin D status promotes muscle wasting.


• Illnesses - Chronic diseases like cancer, kidney disease, etc. increase inflammation and protein breakdown.

How can you prevent and treat decreased muscle mass?

• Exercise - Strength training helps build muscle. EVENlight' strength training is ideal for seniors.


• Protein - Consuming extra protein gives muscles the amino acid building blocks they need. Shoot for 1-1.5 g per kg of body weight daily.


• Supplements - Supplements like creatine, vitamin D, omega-3s may help boost muscle protein production.


• Medical treatment - Medications like hormone therapy and drugs that inhibit myostatin may help in severe cases.

For customized treatment plans to improve decreased muscle mass and vitality, visit Prime Hormone Solutions. Our anti-aging focused practice offers hormone optimization therapy, personalized nutrition plans, and strength training programs. Whether you want to slow sarcopenia or regain vigor from illness, let Prime Hormone Solutions help you achieve your goals.

I hope this overview on decreased muscle mass was helpful! Let me know if you have any other questions. Taking proactive steps now, like improving diet and activity levels, can go a long way in maintaining our strength, health and independence as we age.