Muscle loss, also known as muscle atrophy, occurs when muscle fibers shrink or degrade as a result of disuse or aging. This leads to a loss of muscle mass, strength, and function over time. Some key points about muscle loss include:
- Causes
- Lack of physical activity
- Immobilization from injury or illness
- Aging
- Improper nutrition
- Hormonal changes
- Effects
- Decreased strength - Makes daily tasks more challenging
- Higher injury risk - Muscles can't support joints as well
- Diminished fitness - Harder to exercise; cardiorespiratory fitness declines
- Increased fatigue - everyday activities require more effort
- Weight gain - Muscle burns more calories than fat
- Prevention
- Strength training - lifting weights triggers muscle growth
- Adequate protein - amino acids help maintain and build muscle
- Cardio - exercises like walking, swimming keeps muscles active
- Stretching/foam rolling - keeps muscles flexible and blood flowing
- Treatment
- Nutrition optimization - get enough protein, vitamins like B12
- Exercise programs - work with trainers to develop regimens
- Physical therapy - stretches and exercises tailored to condition
- Medications - some drugs slow muscle loss
"Use it or lose it" applies to muscles. Keeping them stimulated and nourished preserves muscles as we age. Don't ignore signs like weakness or fatigue - see a professional at Vitality Medical Clinic to slow muscle loss. With targeted nutrition and training, some atrophy can be reversed.