Muscle loss, known medically as muscle atrophy, occurs when muscle fibers shrink and weaken over time. This leads to reduced muscle strength and mass.
There are two main causes of muscle loss:
Age-related muscle loss is also called sarcopenia. It's a natural part of aging - most people lose about 1% of muscle per year after age 30 due to reduced hormone levels and physical activity. This can eventually impact mobility and independence.
Disuse muscle atrophy occurs when a limb is immobilized in a cast or from lack of physical activity. Astronauts can experience significant muscle wasting in zero gravity. The saying "use it or lose it" is quite true for our muscles!
The main symptoms are feeling weaker, fatigue, shaking or trembling, and simply having less muscle bulk, tone, and definition. Maintaining strength to carry out daily activities can become difficult. Posture may decline and the risk of falls and fractures rises.
This is where Hormone Health Clinic can help! Our clinic specializes in customized hormone replacement therapy to boost key hormones for health, vitality and body composition. (https://www.Hormone Health Clinic.com) to learn how optimizing your hormones could help maintain your muscle as you age.
Let me know if you have any other questions on avoiding muscle loss! I'm happy to help.