Understanding Muscle Loss in Men: Strategies Providers Are Exploring

Maintaining physical capability is becoming a greater focus in midlife care as life expectancy increases. A proactive, whole-person approach including movement, nutrition, and clinical insights may help support muscle health over time.

While often overshadowed by other health concerns, muscle preservation is an important aspect of maintaining physical function and independence. Healthcare providers are increasingly exploring multidisciplinary strategies, beyond physical activity alone, that may help support aging male patients experiencing this age-related change.

What Is Sarcopenia?

Sarcopenia refers to the age-related loss of skeletal muscle mass and strength. [1] It can begin as early as a person’s 40s, although it typically becomes more noticeable after age 60. [2] [3] After age 50, muscle mass declines at an annual rate of 1 – 2%. [3] These changes have been associated with increased fall risk, decreased mobility, and potential metabolic changes in older adults. [1]

Although considered a natural part of aging, early attention to changes in movement, nutrition, and clinical assessments may offer supportive benefits in maintaining muscle function over time.

Contributing Factors

A variety of physiological and lifestyle-related factors may influence muscle health in men as they age, including:

• Decreased physical activity [4]
• Inadequate protein or micronutrient intake [1][5]
• Chronic inflammation [1][6]
• Changes in anabolic hormone levels (e.g., testosterone, growth hormone) [7][6]
• Underlying metabolic conditions, including insulin resistance [6]

These variables can interact in complex ways, and personalized assessment is often necessary when determining appropriate care strategies.

Strategies Providers Are Exploring

🏋️‍♂️ Movement and Resistance Training

Routine physical activity, particularly resistance and functional training, has been studied for its potential to support muscle maintenance in older adults. [3] Some research suggests this approach may positively impact strength and functional independence over time. [8]

🍳 Nutritional Considerations

Up to 46% of older adults do not meet the recommended daily protein intake, which has been associated with muscle loss in some studies. [9] Adequate intake of dietary protein, vitamin D, and essential amino acids is widely recognized as important for maintaining musculoskeletal health. [10] [11] [12] In addition, emerging research is investigating how specific peptides and micronutrients may support muscle protein synthesis in aging populations, although further studies are needed to understand their potential effects fully. [13] [5] [14]

🧠 Neuromuscular and Cognitive Health Integration

Emerging approaches to muscle preservation may include coordination assessments and cognitive screenings, reflecting growing evidence of the relationship between physical balance, muscle integrity and cognitive function. [15] [16]

🧬 Metabolic and Hormonal Monitoring

Changes in protein metabolism or hormonal profiles may influence muscle function. [17] Some providers may utilize diagnostic assessments to evaluate metabolic health, insulin sensitivity, and hormonal patterns in aging men, which may help inform supportive care strategies. [18] [19] [20]

Looking Ahead

While no single strategy addresses all aspects of age-related muscle changes, early attention and individualized care may play a meaningful role. Clinicians are well-positioned to observe signs of age-related muscle changes and help patients explore supportive, evidence-informed options.