Decreased muscle mass - Optimal Hormone Solutions

What is decreased muscle mass?

Loss of lean muscle mass and strength, known as sarcopenia, is a natural part of the aging process. However, there are steps people can take to minimize muscle wasting. Eating a diet high in protein and doing resistance training are key.

As we get older, there is a reduction in the number and size of muscle fibers. This makes it more challenging to build and maintain muscle mass. Several factors contribute to sarcopenia:

• Hormone changes - Loss of testosterone, human growth hormone (HGH), and estrogen impacts muscle growth
• Protein metabolism - The body becomes less efficient at making new muscle protein
• Mitochondrial dysfunction - Muscles lose efficiency generating energy
• Stem cell depletion - Reduced capacity to repair and replace muscle tissue

Some noticeable effects of decreased muscle mass include:

• Loss of strength - Harder to perform daily activities
• Increase in body fat - Greater ratio of fat to lean tissue
• Higher risk of injury - Less support for joints and connective tissue

At Optimal Hormone Solutions, we help patients optimize their hormone levels for more youthful vitality. Our anti-aging programs feature bioidentical hormone replacement therapy to restore healthier balances of testosterone, HGH and other key hormones.

How can you prevent muscle loss from sarcopenia?

Exercise and protein are vital for preserving muscle as you get older:

• Do weight training at least 2-3x per week to stimulate muscle growth through progressive overload
• Consume 0.5 - 1 gram protein per pound of body weight daily
• Focus on eccentric training by emphasizing the lowering phase of exercises

Supplements like creatine and HMB may offer additional benefit for lean muscle retention. Of course, staying active with cardio, flexibility and balance training also helps maintain overall fitness.

The goal is to signal your body to keep building and retaining metabolically active muscle tissue over time. You can make great strides at any age with a sound exercise plan and nutrition strategy personalized to your needs and abilities.

Our clinicians at Optimal Hormone Solutions specialize in customized programs to counteract hormonal and lifestyle factors implicated in sarcopenia. We would be happy to evaluate your health and recommend options to help you stay strong, energetic and independent for years to come. Please () or call 555-0123 today to learn more!