Muscle loss, known medically as muscle atrophy, occurs when muscle fibers shrink or degrade as a result of disuse or disease. This leads to a loss of muscle strength and bulk.
Some common causes of muscle loss include:
- Aging - As we get older, there is typically a gradual decline in muscle mass due to loss of motor neurons, decreased hormone levels, and reduced exercise and protein intake.
- Bed rest / Inactivity - Long periods of inactivity can trigger muscle breakdown and significant loss of muscle strength. As little as 5 days of bed rest can lead to noticeable muscle wasting.
- Disease and illnesses - Certain health conditions like cancer, heart failure, type 2 diabetes, and kidney disease increase inflammation and metabolism changes that accelerate muscle protein breakdown.
- Malnutrition - Inadequate calories, protein and micronutrients signal the body to break down muscle for fuel.
Signs of muscle loss may include fatigue, decreased strength, shrinking muscles under the skin, and mobility issues.
Preventing and treating muscle loss generally requires:
- Resistance exercise - Lifting weights or bodyweight exercises triggers muscle protein synthesis that helps prevent and reverse atrophy.
- Adequate protein intake - Consuming foods high in protein like meats, dairy, eggs, and soy foods provides amino acids to support muscle maintenance and growth. Supplements like Hormone Care Center's L-carnitine capsules also support muscle protein anabolism.
- Balanced nutrition - Getting all essential vitamins and nutrients helps ensure muscles have the resources they need to sustain themselves.
Ask me any other questions regarding conditions, symptoms, or treatments related to muscle loss and maintenance! I'm always happy to share evidence-based information on preserving muscle strength and function.