Contents
The Effects of Aging on Muscle Mass: Strategies to Maintain Strength and Health
Aging is an inevitable part of life, and with it come significant changes to our bodies. Rapid muscle loss due to aging is known as sarcopenia, and it is much more common than many of us realise. As we age, it is important to be aware of the effects of muscle loss – but to also know that there are strategies and techniques that we can use to maintain strength and health.
What Causes Muscle Loss Via Sarcopenia?
Age-related muscle loss is natural and is chiefly caused by a decrease in our body’s production of certain hormones, such as testosterone and growth hormone. This, in turn, leads to a decreased production of protein, which can mean a loss of muscle and strength. As we age, there is also a decrease in our body’s ability to absorb amino acids, which are the building blocks of muscle.
Nutrition to Combat Muscle Loss
Food: Eating healthy and balanced food is a key part of maintaining muscle mass during aging. It is important to eat foods that are high in protein, such as lean meats, fish, eggs, nuts and legumes, as well as complex carbohydrates, fruits and vegetables.
Supplements: Certain supplements can be beneficial in combatting the effects of aging on muscle mass. Examples include creatine, beta-alanine and protein shakes. These supplements are especially beneficial for people with a hectic lifestyle who need quick and easy sources of nutrition for muscle growth.
Exercise to Maintain Strength
Despite muscle loss due to aging, regular exercise and resistance training can still be beneficial in helping maintain strength, flexibility and balance. As we age, it is important to remain active and do exercises that focus on strength and endurance, such as weight lifting and bodyweight exercises.
Conclusion
The effects of aging on muscle mass are natural, but they can be mitigated with an appropriate diet, supplements and exercise routine. It is important to eat balanced and nutritious food high in protein,ensure adequate supplementation and to stay active with regular exercise. Together, these strategies can help maintain strength and health in our later years.
