Posted: December 12, 2024 | admin
The human body is a complex system in which everything is interconnected. The connection between muscle loss and hormones is obvious. As soon as the level of hormones becomes imbalanced, a person might experience changes in metabolism that may result in muscle mass loss. This refers specifically to testosterone and growth hormone. That is why it is so important to maintain a balanced level of hormones. This is the key to your health and longevity. Let’s look into this topic in more detail.
Metabolism involves both anabolism and catabolism. Both processes help organize molecules, releasing and capturing energy to keep the body strong. Anabolism centers around growth and building—organizing molecules. Catabolism is what happens when you digest food and the molecules are broken down in the body to be used as energy.
Understanding anabolism and catabolism can help you exercise more effectively to lose fat and build muscle. Your hormones play a major role in these processes. Different hormones in the body are associated with either anabolism or catabolism. Let’s talk about hormones affecting muscle growth.
Anabolism includes hormones:
Catabolism includes hormones:
Among these, testosterone stands out as a key player, stimulating muscle growth and ensuring the preservation of muscle mass over time. Alongside testosterone, human growth hormone and luteinizing hormone also contribute significantly. It supports muscle health and overall physical strength.
A hormonal imbalance in men can occur when there is too much or too little of a certain hormone in the blood. Low testosterone is the main cause of muscle loss in men. But it is not always about testosterone, although it certainly plays a key role. However, imbalances of other hormones can also affect muscle mass.
Symptoms of hormonal imbalance include muscle wasting, erectile dysfunction, loss of bone density, hot flashes, and breast tenderness. All of these are extremely unpleasant and harmful to health in the long term. Therefore, it is necessary to urgently consult a doctor if a hormonal imbalance occurs. It is also important to take care of yourself to avoid problems. Genetics, use of certain medications, illness, injury, and improper diet can lead to hormonal imbalance.
Testosterone is essential for muscle growth and maintenance in both men and women. It supports protein synthesis, a key process in muscle repair and growth after exercise. Low testosterone levels, caused by aging, stress, or certain medical conditions, can lead to muscle loss because the body lacks the hormone to support muscle repair and growth.
The testosterone level is highest in healthy men, while in children and women, it is normally 20 times lower. Testosterone affects muscle growth in direct proportion. The higher the testosterone level, the easier and faster muscle mass increases. Professional athletes know this.
The androgen hormone is formed in the seminiferous tubules located in the testicles. For this, cholesterol present in the body is used. Testosterone is produced under the influence of another hormone, luteinizing, which is produced by the pituitary gland in the brain. Disruptions in this process due to hormonal imbalance can interfere with the maintenance and growth of muscles.
Growth Hormone for Muscle Repair
Growth hormone also plays an important role in muscle repair and growth. It is crucial for building and maintaining muscle. Low levels of growth hormone can weaken muscles and lead to a decrease in muscle mass.
Often called the stress hormone, cortisol is released during stressful situations. Chronic stress can cause elevated levels of cortisol, which has a catabolic effect on muscles. This means that cortisol breaks down muscle tissue over time, contributing to muscle loss.
Thyroid hormones, including thyroxine (T4) and triiodothyronine (T3), regulate metabolism and energy production. An imbalance of these hormones can disrupt metabolism and affect muscle mass. Hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid gland) often causes muscle weakness and muscle loss.
Just like women go through menopause, men go through a similar process known as andropause. The main symptom of andropause is the loss of muscle mass, which in turn is the result of a hormonal imbalance. As men age, testosterone production naturally declines, primarily due to the shrinking size of the testicles. The effects of andropause typically begin in men in their late 40s or early 50s, although some may not notice symptoms until their 60s.
Hormonal changes and muscle fatigue are closely linked. Hormonal imbalances can significantly contribute to muscle fatigue, affecting strength, endurance, and recovery. Hormonal imbalances of testosterone, growth hormone, cortisol, and thyroid hormones contribute significantly to muscle loss. Many men suffer from testosterone deficiency without even realizing it. Symptoms of low testosterone include decreased libido, fatigue, erectile dysfunction, muscle loss, increased fat, mood swings, and cognitive changes. These signs are often ignored but can significantly impact quality of life.
If you notice these symptoms, it is important to seek professional help. At Neria Medical and Wellness, you will receive a professional examination and a personalized treatment plan. We specialize in physician-guided weight loss, hormone therapy, and wellness medicine. Our clinic offers a comprehensive approach to wellness, ensuring that each patient receives personalized care.