Why Muscle Mass Declines With Age

There is no single cause of age-related muscle decline. The trajectory reflects a mix of biology, behavior and health status.

Lower anabolic responsiveness

Older muscle can show a reduced protein-synthesis response to feeding, often described as anabolic resistance.

Less loading and activity

Periods of inactivity and disuse accelerate muscle loss. Resistance exercise helps preserve the mechanical stimulus muscle needs.

Nutrition and appetite

Lower calorie or protein intake can make it harder to maintain tissue, especially during illness or recovery.

Disease and medication context

Inflammation, endocrine disorders, neurological disease, hospitalization and other medical factors can contribute to weakness or loss of lean tissue. Rapid or unexplained change deserves medical assessment.

Continue this topic

• Leucine and Muscle Protein Synthesis
• Anabolic Resistance Explained
• Nutrition for Maintaining Muscle After 50