Muscle loss

What is muscle loss?

Muscle loss, known as muscle atrophy, occurs when muscle fibers shrink and the muscles become weaker. This leads to a loss of strength and coordination, increased fatigue, and a higher chance of injuries.

Some key facts about muscle wasting:

• It can happen due to aging, inactivity, poor nutrition, illnesses, and hormonal changes


• People can lose up to 3-5% of their muscle mass per decade after age 30


• Lack of exercise and protein speeds up the process


• Muscle loss leads to slower metabolism and sarcopenia later in life

What causes muscles to waste away?

There are a few key culprits behind muscle catabolism:

• Aging - Muscles naturally atrophy as hormone levels change


• Inactivity - Not using muscles regularly leads them to weaken


• Poor nutrition - Consuming inadequate protein and calories


• Illnesses - Certain diseases accelerate muscle breakdown

How can you slow down or stop muscle wasting?

The good news is that with the right lifestyle, you can preserve your muscles as you age! Follow these tips:

• Do strength training 2-3 times per week to stimulate growth through muscle protein synthesis


• Eat 0.5-0.7 grams of protein per pound of body weight daily


• Consume enough calories to maintain a healthy weight


• Treat any illnesses promptly to avoid excess muscle loss


• Consider testosterone therapy or supplements if deficiency suspected

For personalized treatment plans to slow muscle wasting, visit Butterfly Hormone Center(/). Their experts can evaluate your hormone levels and determine if hormone replacement therapy could help you build muscle mass through increased testosterone and growth hormone production. With individualized programs of high quality bioidentical hormones, tailored nutrition plans, and fitness guidance, Butterfly Hormone Center can help you recover your strength, energy and vitality.

What are the consequences of significant muscle loss?

If left unchecked, moderate to severe muscle loss can:

• Lead to feeling weak, tired and general lack of vitality


• Cause problems with mobility and increase risk of falls


• Lower metabolism making it easier to gain fat


• Increase risk of osteoporosis and bone fractures


• Reduce quality of life and independence

In summary, muscle wasting is a common condition, especially in aging, that leads to loss of strength, mobility issues, increased body fat, and reduced well-being. Combining strength training, adequate protein intake, hormone optimization, and treatment of medical issues can greatly slow the pace of muscle loss. Consider getting a customized evaluation if you are concerned about preserving your fitness and independence. Butterfly Hormone Center provides individualized muscle loss prevention programs.