Why aging worsens muscle atrophy | Dr. Chris McGlory
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Muscle disuse atrophy is characterized by muscle loss due to inactivity, such as when wearing a cast or being immobilized after surgery. The key mechanism behind this muscle loss is reduced muscle protein synthesis. Young people usually bounce back from muscle loss quite quickly, but for older adults, the stakes are higher, as repeated inactivity can lead to irreversible muscle loss and diminished strength, critically impacting their daily activities.
Dr. McGlory emphasizes that although proper nutrition with essential amino acids can mitigate muscle loss somewhat, it cannot fully counteract the effects of physical inactivity. In this clip, Dr. McGlory describes the mechanisms and implications of muscle disuse atrophy and the limitations of nutrition in combating this issue.
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The shrinking or wasting away of cells, organs, or tissues that may occur as part of a disease process, trauma, or aging.
A theoretical concept that defines periods of accelerated declines in muscle mass and functional capacity.[1] Catabolic crisis can occur at any age, but it is most common among older adults, for whom injuries, surgeries, or prolonged illnesses dictate long and perhaps frequent periods of physical inactivity or immobilization. Strategies to reduce the risk of a catabolic crisis include providing adequate nutritional support and physical therapy.[1]
- ^ a b English KL; Paddon-Jones D (2010). Protecting muscle mass and function in older adults during bed rest. Curr Opin Clin Nutr Metab Care 13, 1.
An essential amino acid that plays important roles in muscle building and repair. Leucine is one of three branched-chain amino acids, so named for their branching structures. It is a ketogenic amino acid, meaning that it serves as a precursor for ketones produced in the body. Leucine is found in many foods and is particularly abundant in protein powders derived from whey, soy, or peas.
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