on the Fight Against Sarcopenia: Strategies to Maintain Muscle Mass as We Age
Nov 8, 2023
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This podcast explores sarcopenia, the natural loss of muscle mass as we age. They discuss its impact on strength decline, potential mechanisms behind it, and strategies to counter and reverse its effects. The importance of nutrition and exercise in preserving muscle mass is emphasized. The hosts also share insights on challenging oneself physically and the power of CrossFit workouts. They address workout concerns and promote shared decision-making between coach and individual.
Consistency in exercise is more important than the perfect program, focusing on progress rather than specific sets and reps.
Sarcopenia, the natural loss of muscle mass as we age, can be reversed and mitigated through consistent exercise and a protein-rich diet.
Deep dives
The importance of consistency in exercise
The podcast emphasizes the importance of being consistent with exercise rather than focusing on the perfect program. The key is to challenge oneself and strive for progress in each workout, rather than being fixated on specific sets and reps. The main message is that all exercise, regardless of the specific details, is better than no exercise.
Understanding sarcopenia
Sarcopenia refers to the natural loss of muscle mass as we age. It is diagnosed based on functional tests and reduced muscle mass. This loss of muscle mass can lead to various negative effects on overall health and quality of life, including an increased risk of falls, fractures, and disability. Muscle strength is considered a more reliable measure of muscle function and a better predictor of adverse outcomes than muscle mass alone.
Factors contributing to sarcopenia
Sarcopenia can be influenced by various factors, including age, diet, exercise, and lifestyle. Aging itself can lead to a loss of motor neurons, resulting in reduced muscle fiber activation and power generation. The accumulation of fat in the muscle and the generation of reactive molecules called free radicals during energy creation can further impact muscle strength and performance.
Strategies to counter sarcopenia
The podcast highlights that sarcopenia can be reversed and mitigated through appropriate diet and exercise. Consistency is key, along with focusing on challenging oneself in workouts and gradually increasing resistance or intensity. Resistance training and a protein intake of around 0.7 grams per pound of body weight are recommended. Additionally, maintaining overall fitness and engaging in regular physical activity can help prevent and counteract the effects of sarcopenia.
We're about sarcopenia, which is the natural loss of muscle mass as we age. But don’t worry, it's not all doom and gloom. We'll explore the mechanisms behind sarcopenia, discuss the factors that contribute to its onset, and most importantly, uncover strategies to counter and even reverse its effects.
Expect to Learn:
✦ The background and diagnosis of sarcopenia
✦ The impact of aging on muscle loss and strength decline
✦ The potential mechanisms behind sarcopenia
✦ Strategies to mitigate and reverse sarcopenia
✦ The importance of nutrition and exercise in preserving muscle mass
The Consistency Project aims to simplify nutrition, health, and well-being by breaking down the concepts and actions we can all take to live fuller, more functional lives.
ABOUT US
📍 EC Synkowski is a Certified Nutrition Specialist® (CNS), a Licensed-Dietitian Nutritionist (LDN), and Certified CrossFit Level 4 Coach (CF-L4). She's the founder of OptimizeMe Nutrition and the creator of the #800gChallenge®. Find her on social media.
📍 Patrick Cummings is a long-time CrossFitter, writer, and podcaster. Find him on social media.