As we age, the cells of our body deteriorate, but it is striking how some people of the same age and gender may not only look younger, but act as such, in terms of the physical activity they perform during the day a day.
Over the years the loss of muscle mass or sarcopenia is a natural process. One of the causes of sarcopenia related to age is the decrease in the levels of anabolic hormones (including testosterone), necessary for the functioning of some cells, including muscle cells.
So there is a directly proportional relationship between the loss of muscle mass and the decrease in blood levels of testosterone in men.
However, the loss of muscle mass can be actively prevented and, in this way, it is possible to slow down this degenerative process that can cause an advanced degree of functional limitation and inability to perform physical activities.
Andropause
It is the period characterized by low androgen (testosterone) levels in men, with the consequent decrease in sexual potency and reproductive capacity, similar to what happens in women with menopause without this stage being so marked in man, being rather of slow progress and less easy to perceive.
As in the case of women, the decrease in androgens in men generates a series of physiological changes, such as a decrease in libido, which can be accompanied by erectile dysfunction and alterations in ejaculation.
Vasomotor disorders, such as hot flashes and night sweats, can also occur. Other associated symptoms are loss of energy and memory, decreased concentration and the appearance of insomnia, along with increased irritability or anxiety.
The loss of muscle mass associated with muscle weakness and muscle mass replacement increased body fat as well as mass loss Ose to with increased risk of spontaneous fractures are commonly evidenced other symptoms.
When muscle and bone mass are severely diminished, they can be a problem that leads to serious health problems and even, in some cases, fatal consequences.
As the functional limitation of the elderly increases, there is a greater risk of falls and even spontaneous fractures that in turn generate the loss of independence of the individual and greater risks of developing neurological, respiratory, urinary complications, etc.
How to prevent loss of muscle mass
The main recommendation is based on the fact that the man with andropause must move from the passive side to a more active role, since the main enemy of muscular strength is sedentary lifestyle and inactivity. Let us remember that the tissue that is not used atrophies and that applies both to neuronal tissue, as well as muscle and bone.
Being clear about this aspect, it is important to remember in turn that the choice of physical activity and exercise to perform will depend not only on the age of the person, but also on their current physical condition, the time available, the presence or not of diseases that can affect their performance, such as diabetes, hypertension, arrhythmias, metabolic syndrome, etc.
Therefore, training with progressive resistance exercises is recommended and where possible, supervised by qualified personnel or a trainer, in conjunction, of course, with a balanced diet, rich in fiber and high protein content (as long as you do not there is no kidney, liver, endocrine or heart problem that manages a special diet).
Caution is necessary with the use of dietary supplements as these must be administered correctly under nutritional and medical supervision.
Regarding the use of drugs such as hormones and the like (testosterone or other analogues), there are very precise indications in particular cases of pathologies that generate hypogonadism (decreased testicular function), but that in individuals who have no indication may carry a greater risk cardiovascular disease, so it is not recommended to self-medicate without first consulting an expert, in order to define if you are a candidate for a special drug therapy.
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