Everything You Need to Know About Sarcopenia and Muscle Health

By Alpro Pharmacy

January 4, 2025

Did you know that muscle health is key to maintaining mobility and independence as we age?

Sarcopenia, or the gradual loss of muscle mass and strength, can impact anyone between the ages of 30 and 60. Understanding and addressing this condition early is essential for a healthier and more active life.

What is Sarcopenia?

Sarcopenia is a condition characterized by the progressive loss of skeletal muscle mass and strength. It can lead to:

  • Weakness and fatigue
  • Difficulty performing daily tasks
  • Increased risk of falls and fractures

Why Should We Prevent Sarcopenia?

Preventing sarcopenia is vital for maintaining an active, healthy lifestyle. Here’s why:

1️⃣ Preserve Mobility: Strong muscles are essential for walking, climbing stairs, and performing daily activities. Preventing muscle loss helps maintain independence.

2️⃣ Reduce Fall Risks: Muscle weakness is a leading cause of falls and fractures, particularly in older adults. Prevention reduces these risks significantly.

3️⃣ Improve Metabolic Health: Muscle mass plays a critical role in maintaining healthy blood sugar levels and overall metabolism.

4️⃣ Enhance Quality of Life: By maintaining muscle strength, you can stay active, energetic, and engaged in your favorite activities.

5️⃣ Support Overall Health: Sarcopenia can worsen other health conditions, such as obesity, diabetes, and osteoporosis. Prevention protects against these complications.

How Can You Tell If You Have Sarcopenia?

Look out for these warning signs:

  • Difficulty lifting objects that were once easy to carry
  • Feeling weak or tired even after simple activities
  • Loss of muscle mass, especially in the arms and legs
  • Problems with balance and frequent falls

If you experience any of these symptoms, it’s time to assess your muscle health.

What Are the Risk Factors?

Several factors contribute to the development of sarcopenia, including:

  • Age: Muscle loss accelerates after the age of 30.
  • Physical Inactivity: A sedentary lifestyle weakens muscles over time.
  • Poor Nutrition: Insufficient protein and vitamin D intake.
  • Chronic Illnesses: Conditions like diabetes, obesity, or hormonal imbalances.
  • Major Surgeries: Prolonged immobility after surgery can weaken muscles.

How Can You Prevent Sarcopenia?

Preventing sarcopenia involves adopting a healthy lifestyle:

1️⃣ Stay Active: Engage in regular physical activities like resistance training, walking, or yoga.

2️⃣ Eat Balanced Meals: Include high-protein foods like fish, chicken, eggs, and legumes, along with vitamin D-rich foods.

3️⃣ Monitor Your Weight: Maintain a healthy body weight to avoid excessive strain on your muscles.

4️⃣ Stay Hydrated: Proper hydration supports overall muscle function.

5️⃣ Get Regular Health Checks: Early detection can help you take preventive steps.

Join the FREE Muscle Health Screening Program

The Kulliyyah of Medicine, IIUM is collaborating with Alpro Pharmacy to conduct a research study on sarcopenia. As part of this initiative, we are offering FREE muscle health screenings for eligible participants to promote awareness and contribute to meaningful medical research.

Screening Details

📅 Date: 10 December 2024 – 31 January 2025

Participating Outlets

This program is available at the following Alpro Pharmacy outlets in Kuantan:

  • ALPRO Pharmacy Jalan Beserah
  • ALPRO Pharmacy Jalan Tun Ismail
  • ALPRO Pharmacy Indera Mahkota

Visit your nearest participating outlet and take the first step toward better muscle health today!

What’s in It for You?

1️⃣ FREE Muscle Strength & Health Assessment
2️⃣ Token of Appreciation for participating
3️⃣ Chance for a FREE Blood Test

Are You Eligible?

Age: 18–59 years
✅ Not pregnant
✅ No severe bone, joint, or muscle conditions
✅ No major surgery in the last 6 weeks

How to Register?

📞 Call or WhatsApp: 011-2725 6645
📱 Scan the QR Code on the poster for more details.

Why Should You Participate?

Your participation in this research study will help advance the understanding of sarcopenia and its impact on muscle health. By taking part, you are not only receiving valuable health assessments but also contributing to crucial medical research that can benefit the community.

Conflict of Interest Statement:
This research is a collaborative effort between the Kulliyyah of Medicine, IIUM, and Alpro Pharmacy. Alpro Pharmacy supports the study by providing screening facilities, equipment, and assistance with participant recruitment.

🩺 Let’s work together for better muscle health and healthier communities.

 

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