19th June 2021
Menopause Info part 6:
A 10-part series exploring the causes, symptoms, and treatments for Menopause. Keep an eye out for the next information post…
Exploring Symptoms: Muscle mass loss (Sarcopenia)
Sarcopenia = reduced muscle fibre/cell numbers and atrophy (wasting/degeneration) of remaining numbers.
Causes of sarcopenia:
- Aging and inactivity
- Sub optimal nutrition
- Inflammation
- Endocrine/hormone issues (IGF-1 Insulin growth factor, thyroid, insulin resistance)
- Corticosteroids
- Cytokines – inflammation function
- Oxidative stress (imbalance of free radicals and antioxidants in the body)
- Hypoxaemia – Low concentration of oxygen in the blood (for example anaemia)
Peak muscle mass values
Peak age 25-35
Maintained between ages 40-49
Declines 4/5th decades.
Loss 12-14% each decade after age of 50
Muscles are a menopausal women’s best friend!