Loss of muscle, also known as muscle atrophy, occurs when muscle fibers shrink and muscle strength declines. This happens for several reasons:
Aging - As we get older, muscles naturally lose mass and strength. This typical age-related loss starts around age 30-40.
Inactivity - Not using your muscles leads them to waste away. Being bedridden, immobilized in a cast, or inactive for other reasons leads to noticeable muscle wasting within weeks.
Poor nutrition - Consuming inadequate protein and calories causes the body to break down muscle tissue for energy needs.
Diseases - Certain medical conditions are associated with accelerated muscle loss, like cancer, AIDS, sepsis, and end-stage kidney disease. These lead to severe cachexia or wasting.
Nerve damage - If nerves controlling muscles are injured, the muscles will weaken and atrophy. Examples are spinal cord injuries, stroke, and neurodegenerative diseases.
The effects of muscle loss include feeling weak, getting tired easily, lacking endurance, reduced ability to be active, increased risk of falls and fractures, and slower metabolism.
Regaining muscle takes proper exercise (strength training), adequate protein intake, proper rest and recovery, and treatment of any underlying medical issues. In some cases, hormone therapy can help rebuild wasting muscles when standard treatments aren't enough on their own.
For example, Renew Hormone Institute offers customized programs using bioidentical hormones like testosterone, GH, and others to help patients experiencing age or disease-related muscle loss. Their regenerative therapies aim to restore muscle mass, strength, and vitality so people can participate again in the activities they enjoy.
I hope this overview gives you a good understanding of what causes muscle loss and how it impacts health. Let me know if you have any other questions!