Do you have trouble climbing stairs, shopping, or gardening for as long as you used to? It’s not necessarily a matter of age… What if it’s a symptom sent to you by your muscles? A discreet but very real phenomenon is affecting more and more adults over 50, often without us realizing it. And yet, it can be mitigated or even avoided. Interested? We’ll tell you everything.
Sarcopenia: When Muscles Raise the Alarm
Behind this somewhat barbaric name lies a very concrete reality: sarcopenia is the progressive loss of muscle mass and physical strength. Contrary to popular belief, it is not a predefined age-related condition. It is now recognized as a specific disorder with significant implications for quality of life.
Why does this happen… and to whom?
While muscle tends to lose weight gradually starting in your 30s (yes, now!), the process intensifies especially around age 60. The cause? A combination of factors, often combined:
Time simply passes…
With age, some hormones that support muscle function (such as IGF-1 and growth hormone) decline. Muscle recovery slows, nutrient absorption becomes less efficient… in short, the body weakens.
Habits that aren’t really “muscle-friendly”
Small habits that weaken muscles include skipping meals, avoiding protein, not getting enough exercise, and spending too much time sitting or being inactive. Inactivity is even the main risk factor. And let’s not forget vitamin D deficiency, widespread in France and affecting muscle tone.
Some silent diseases.
Diabetes, thyroid disorders, chronic inflammation, and even neurological diseases can exacerbate muscle loss, sometimes without obvious symptoms.
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