As we age, muscle loss becomes a common issue, particularly for those facing conditions such as sarcopenia, Alzheimer’s disease, or muscle-wasting conditions. Muscle loss, known medically as sarcopenia, is especially prevalent in the elderly, leading to increased risk of falls, frailty, and a decrease in quality of life. Managing and preventing muscle loss is crucial, and as a professional dietitian, I am here to guide you on the right path to regain strength and vitality.
Factors Contributing to Muscle Loss
Several factors contribute to muscle loss, including:
- Aging: Naturally, muscle mass declines as we grow older.
- Disease: Conditions like Alzheimer’s disease and sarcopenia accelerate muscle loss.
- Inflammation and Infection: Prolonged inflammation or infections lead to muscle weakening.
- Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity contributes significantly to muscle deterioration.
- Nutritional Deficiency: Inadequate protein intake or poor nutrition accelerates muscle atrophy. This is also common after major surgeries, such as post-cancer treatments or heart surgery.
The Importance of Maintaining Muscle Mass
Muscle mass plays a vital role in overall health and well-being. Strong muscles support daily activities, improve balance, and help prevent injuries, especially in older adults. For those unable to exercise due to weakness, bedridden conditions, or illness, medical devices such as low-wave frequency devices stimulate and maintain muscle tone for those in need of extra support.
Resistance Training and Protein Intake
For the general population, a daily protein intake of 1g/kg of body weight is recommended to maintain muscle mass. Incorporating resistance exercises like weight training is one of the most effective methods to rebuild and preserve muscle strength. However, for individuals unable to engage in traditional exercises due to their health condition, low-wave frequency devices can be an ideal tool to help restore muscle function.
The Role of Diet in Muscle Preservation
A well-structured diet is essential in managing muscle loss. As a dietitian, I create personalized nutritional plans based on several factors, including:
- Activity level
- Severity of disease
- Inflammation and infection levels
- Age and overall health
A Nutrition-Focused Physical Exam (NFPE) can assess muscle loss severity and guide the necessary interventions to rebuild muscle mass. This comprehensive assessment ensures that the best dietary and lifestyle changes are tailored to your needs.
Book a Session with Us
Take the first step toward improving your muscle health by booking a Diet Consultation Session (RM 399), which includes:
- A 1-hour NFPE nutrition-focused physical examination (certified by Rutgers University on malnutrition assessment)
- Anthropometry measurements (muscle mass, fat, weight)
- A detailed diet assessment and consultation with a dietitian on personalized diet plan (certified by KKM)
- A 1-hour Muscle Strengthening Session using the Dr. Kiseki medical device (worth RM120), a KKM-certified medical device for neuromuscular health.
Location: Klinik RE, Bukit Damansara
Call: 011 54308984 (Dietitian Team) to book your appointment.
Let us guide you toward a stronger, healthier you!
