Are you having trouble climbing stairs, shopping, or gardening as long as you used to? It’s not necessarily a question of age… What if it’s a symptom your muscles are sending you? A subtle but very real phenomenon is affecting more and more adults over 50, often without us even realizing it. And yet, it can be mitigated or even avoided. Interested? We’ll tell you all about it.
Sarcopenia: When the muscles sound 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 is this happening… and to whom?
While muscle tends to gradually lose weight starting in your 30s (yes, already!), the process intensifies especially around your 60s. 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, which is widespread in France and affects muscle tone.
Some silent diseases.
Diabetes, thyroid disorders, chronic inflammation, and even neurological diseases can exacerbate muscle loss, sometimes without obvious symptoms.