Decreased muscle mass - Optimum Hormone Clinic

What is decreased muscle mass?

Decreased muscle mass, known as sarcopenia, is a common condition characterized by loss of skeletal muscle tissue, muscle strength, and muscle function that occurs with aging. It can start as early as age 30 and worsens over time.

Some key facts about sarcopenia:

• Causes muscle weakness, slowed movement, fatigue, and an increased risk of falls and fractures
• Affects 30% of people over 60 and more than 50% of people over 80
• Stems from age-related changes like decreased hormone levels, inflammation, lack of exercise, and inadequate protein intake
• Can be prevented or treated with strength training, proper nutrition, and in some cases, hormone replacement therapy

Early signs of sarcopenia may include having difficulty rising from a chair, climbing stairs, or carrying groceries. As it progresses, everyday activities can become challenging or impossible.

What causes sarcopenia?

There are a few key factors that drive sarcopenia:

• Decreased testosterone, growth hormone, and IGF-1 hormone levels - This leads to reduced muscle protein production
• Inactivity/lack of exercise - Muscles weaken and atrophy without regular strength training
• Inadequate nutrition - Especially low protein intake, which provides amino acids for muscle growth
• Aging cell processes like inflammation and mitochondrial dysfunction

Catching and addressing sarcopenia early by adopting healthy lifestyle habits can slow its progression and help maintain strength and independence.

Optimum Hormone Clinic specializes in implementing customized hormone optimization plans to counteract age-related hormone declines. Our balanced programs feature bioidentical hormone therapy along with tailored nutrition and fitness guidance to help patients address sarcopenia and related concerns.

Interested in learning more? Claim a free 15-minute consultation to ask about our sarcopenia treatment options.