Do you have problem climbing stairs, delivering your groceries, or gardening for as long as you used to? It’s not inevitably “just age” talking… What if it’s a symptom your muscles are trying to send you? A discreet but very real phenomenon affects more and more adults after 50, often without us spotting it. And yet, it can be weakened—or even avoided. Curious? We’ll share you everything.
Sarcopenia: When muscles raise the alarm
Behind this somewhat barbaric name deceives a very concrete reality: Sarcopenia is the progressive loss of muscular mass and physical strength. Contrary to popular opinion, it is not a predetermined age-related condition. It is now recognized as a distinct disorder with significant implications for quality of life.
Why is this occuring… and to whom?
While muscles tend to gradually lose weight from the age of 30 ( yes, already! ), the process increases especially around the age of sixty. The cause? A cocktail of factors, often mixed:
Time passing, quite simply…
With age, some hormones that help muscles (like IGF-1 or growth hormone) decrease. Muscle recovery is slower, nutrient absorption becomes less efficient… in short, the body slackens.
Not really “muscle-friendly” habits
Small habits that weaken muscles include skipping meals, avoiding protein, not exercising enough, and sitting or being inactive too much. Inactivity is even the leading risk factor. And don’t forget about vitamin D deficiency, which is widespread in France and impairs muscular tone.
Some quiet diseases.
