Muscle is often underestimated. Beyond shaping our bodies, it supports every movement, maintains metabolism, and keeps us healthy as we age. When muscle begins to waste away, a condition called sarcopenia, the consequences extend far beyond appearance. Loss of strength, slower recovery from illness, and greater risk of falls are just the start.
At BodyScan, we provide precise insights into body composition so that clients can understand their muscle health and take proactive steps to maintain strength. This article explains why muscle loss is a hidden threat and how monitoring it can make all the difference.
What Is Muscle Loss?
Sarcopenia refers to the gradual reduction of skeletal muscle mass, strength, and function, typically associated with ageing. Unlike simple weight changes, this is a serious condition affecting physical performance and overall health.
Although commonly linked to older adults, studies show that muscle decline can begin as early as the mid-30s. Detecting it early is crucial to avoid the long-term effects on mobility, metabolism, and general wellbeing.
The Importance of Muscle
Muscle plays a vital role in several areas of health:
Metabolic Function
Muscle tissue burns calories even at rest, helping to maintain a healthy metabolism. Losing muscle slows the body’s calorie expenditure, which can lead to fat gain and increase the risk of metabolic conditions.
Mobility and Everyday Function
Muscle supports joints and balance. Declining strength can make day-to-day tasks, such as lifting shopping or climbing stairs, far more challenging.
Bone Strength
Muscle stimulates bones through movement, encouraging density and resilience. Reduced muscle increases the likelihood of fractures.
Immune Support
Muscle stores amino acids needed for immune function. Losing lean mass can hinder recovery from illness or injury.
Muscle health is therefore essential for longevity, independence, and quality of life.
Why Muscle Wastes Away
Muscle loss happens for several reasons, often interacting together:
Age and Hormones
As we age, natural declines in testosterone, growth hormone, and other factors reduce the body’s ability to maintain muscle mass.
Inactivity
Muscle adapts to use. Without regular movement, it wastes away. Sedentary lifestyles accelerate this process.
Dietary Factors
Adequate protein is essential to maintain muscle. Deficiencies in nutrients such as vitamin D or omega-3 fatty acids can exacerbate the decline.
Chronic Illness
Long-term conditions like diabetes, heart disease, or inflammatory illnesses increase the risk of accelerated muscle loss.
Spotting the Early Signs
Early sarcopenia can be difficult to detect. Common indicators include:
Gradual shrinking of muscles
Reduced strength or endurance
Difficulty with routine activities
Slower recovery from exercise or illness
Balance issues or changes in posture
Because the signs are subtle, many people do not notice until daily life is affected.
The Role of Body Composition Scans
Traditional methods like weight or BMI are not reliable for identifying muscle loss. A person can maintain a healthy weight while losing significant lean mass, a condition known as sarcopenic obesity.
At BodyScan, DEXA body composition scans give an accurate picture of muscle, fat, and bone. The benefits include:
Detecting regional muscle loss
Tracking changes over time
Differentiating between fat and muscle loss
Helping identify sarcopenic obesity early
This detailed insight allows for early intervention and personalised strategies to protect muscle.
Why Ignoring Muscle Loss Is Risky
Unchecked sarcopenia can lead to serious consequences:
Falls and Injuries
Loss of muscle reduces balance and strength, increasing the risk of falls and fractures.
Reduced Independence
Everyday tasks become more difficult, increasing reliance on others.
Metabolic Issues
Lower muscle mass slows metabolism, contributing to weight gain and insulin resistance.
Greater Health Risk
Low muscle mass is associated with higher rates of hospitalisation and mortality, independent of age.
Protecting and Building Muscle
Fortunately, sarcopenia can be managed and even partially reversed through lifestyle changes.
Strength and Resistance Training
Activities such as weightlifting, resistance bands, or bodyweight exercises stimulate muscle growth and maintain strength.
Balanced Nutrition
Sufficient protein intake is key. Older adults should aim for around 1.2 to 1.5 grams per kilogram of body weight per day, spread throughout meals. Supporting nutrients like vitamin D and omega-3s further enhance muscle health.
Active Daily Life
Avoid long periods of inactivity and incorporate movement into daily routines to protect lean mass.
Monitoring Progress
Regular DEXA scans allow clients to track muscle mass, adjust exercise and nutrition plans, and ensure interventions are effective.
How Muscle Loss Impacts Everyday Life
Even small declines in muscle can have noticeable effects:
Walking up stairs may feel more tiring
Carrying shopping or household items can become challenging
Recovery from minor injuries or illness takes longer
Early detection and intervention help maintain independence and overall quality of life.
Muscle Health and Ageing Well
Maintaining lean mass is a key factor in healthy ageing. Strong muscles support metabolism, strength, and resilience. Muscle loss accelerates ageing and increases susceptibility to disease.
Focusing on muscle health is just as important as cardiovascular fitness or diet when planning for long-term wellbeing.
How BodyScan Helps Clients Stay Strong
At BodyScan, we provide DEXA body composition scans that accurately measure muscle, fat, and bone. These scans allow clients to:
Detect early signs of muscle loss
Track changes over time
Personalise exercise and nutrition strategies
Understand the relationship between muscle, fat, and bone
Combining technology with expert guidance, BodyScan empowers clients to take control of their muscle health and protect against the risks of sarcopenia.
DEXA Body Composition Example Report
Muscle loss is a serious condition that can impact metabolism, mobility, and overall health. Early detection, resistance training, good nutrition, and regular monitoring are essential to maintaining strength and independence.
DEXA scans at BodyScan provide a clear and precise picture of muscle, enabling clients to make informed decisions and take proactive steps. Muscle is the foundation of movement, metabolism, and vitality. Protect it to ensure a strong and healthy future.
Book your DEXA scan today at BodyScan.co.uk and take the first step towards safeguarding your muscle health.