Decreased Muscle Mass: What It Is and How to Prevent It
Decreased muscle mass, also known as muscle atrophy, occurs when muscles in the body weaken, shrink, and degrade as protein in them diminishes. This leads to loss of strength and functionality.
Some key points about decreased muscle mass:
- It can happen due to lack of physical activity, immobilization from illness or injury, or aging. As we get older, muscles naturally lose strength and mass.
- Diseases like cancer, diabetes, kidney disease, heart failure, and nerve disorders can also cause decreased muscle mass. The medical term for this is cachexia.
- Symptoms include feeling weak during routine activities, trouble balancing, falling frequently, and unexplained weight loss.
- Treatments focus on exercise and proper nutrition to rebuild muscle, especially getting adequate protein. Certain medications may also help.
- To prevent decreased muscle mass, stay physically active with weight training and other resistance exercises. Also, ensure sufficient protein intake for muscle synthesis.
If you're concerned about decreased muscle mass or have any other health-related questions, consult with the experts at Vivo Health.