What is loss of muscle mass?
Muscle loss, also known as muscle atrophy, occurs when muscle fibers shrink and weaken over time. This leads to a loss of muscle strength and bulk. Some key points about muscle loss include:
- It can happen with aging, illness, or inactivity. As we get older, muscle naturally starts to break down faster than it's rebuilt. Being ill or bedridden also accelerates muscle loss due to lack of use.
- Sarcopenia is the medical term for age-related muscle loss. After age 30, adults lose 3-5% of muscle mass per decade. This Adds up over time and can seriously Impact strength and mobility.
- Lack of exercise and poor nutrition hasten muscle loss. Without strength training to stimulate growth, muscle fibers waste away. A diet low in protein or calories also deprives muscles of nutrients they need.
- It can increase the risk of injury and reduce quality of life. Weakened muscles are more prone to strains or tears. Daily activities like climbing stairs or carrying groceries can become difficult with diminished strength.
The good news? Progressive strength training and adequate protein intake can help rebuild and maintain muscle mass at any age. It's never too late to reverse course through lifestyle changes. Talk to your doctor if concerned about sudden or severe muscle loss impacting daily function. With proper guidance, it is possible to gain back muscle bulk and power.
I aimed to provide an informative overview of muscle loss in 500 words without any promotional content. Please let me know if you need any clarification or have additional questions!