Unexplained loss of muscle mass - Hormone Health Clinic

Unexplained Loss of Muscle Mass: Causes and Solutions

Unexplained loss of muscle mass, also known as muscle wasting, can be caused by a variety of factors. Some potential causes include:

Lifestyle Factors

• Sedentary lifestyle - Not getting enough physical activity can lead to muscle loss over time. Try to do strength training exercises 2-3 times per week to maintain muscle mass. Even daily activities like taking the stairs and going for walks can help.
• Poor nutrition - Not eating enough calories, protein, vitamins, and minerals can contribute to muscle wasting. Try to eat a balanced diet with 0.5-0.8 grams of protein per pound of body weight daily. Foods like meat, eggs, fish, nuts, and beans are great protein sources.

Aging and Hormonal Changes

• Aging - As we get older, we naturally lose muscle mass due to hormonal changes and decreased activity levels. Older adults may lose 3-5% of muscle mass per decade after age 30. Resistance training and eating adequate protein can help counteract age-related muscle loss.
• Hormonal imbalances - Low levels of anabolic hormones like testosterone, growth hormone, and IGF-1 can accelerate muscle loss. Consider getting tested for hormonal deficiencies, especially if you have other symptoms like fatigue and decreased libido.

Medical Conditions and Treatments

• Illnesses - Certain diseases like cancer, kidney failure, congestive heart failure, and COPD can increase muscle loss. The disease itself as well as treatments like chemotherapy may play a role. Talk to your doctor about ways to minimize muscle wasting.
• Injuries - If you have an injury that limits mobility like a broken bone, you may notice wasting around the immobilized area. Try not to lose movement completely if possible and rebuild muscle once healed.
• Medications - Certain prescription drugs like corticosteroids can cause muscle wasting as a side effect. Ask your doctor if any of your medications could be contributing. Never stop a medication without medical guidance.

Cause	Potential Solutions
Sedentary lifestyle	Engage in strength training exercises 2-3 times per week and increase daily activity
Poor nutrition	Eat a balanced diet with adequate protein, calories, vitamins, and minerals
Aging	Perform resistance training and consume sufficient protein
Hormonal imbalances	Get tested for hormonal deficiencies and consider hormone replacement therapy
Illnesses	Work with your doctor to manage the underlying condition and minimize muscle loss
Injuries	Maintain movement as much as possible and rebuild muscle once healed
Medications	Discuss potential side effects with your doctor and explore alternative options

If you are experiencing significant unexplained muscle loss, make an appointment with your doctor. They can run tests to help determine the underlying cause, such as bloodwork to check hormone, vitamin, and mineral levels. Often, treating an identifiable health condition can help restore lost muscle.

Test	Purpose
Testosterone levels	Assess for hormonal deficiencies that may contribute to muscle loss
Growth hormone levels	Evaluate growth hormone status and its impact on muscle mass
Vitamin D and mineral levels	Check for nutritional deficiencies that can affect muscle health

In the meantime, engage in strength training and make sure your diet provides adequate calories, protein, and nutrients. Try effective tactics like bodyweight exercises, resistance bands, and protein smoothies. Hormone Health Clinic provides safe, effective hormone therapies to help combat muscle loss and restore vitality. Don't hesitate to reach out for personalized treatment options. With proper care, you can regain your strength and enjoy an active, healthy lifestyle!