As men age, both their muscle mass and testosterone levels start to decline naturally. In the opinion of Evan Bass Men’s Clinic, with age, many men may observe symptoms of reduced testosterone, like fatigue or hair loss. However, as testosterone is not something that is generally checked in routine checkups, many men do not understand where these symptoms come from. It is possible to counteract age-related losses in muscle mass associated with lower testosterone levels.
Evan Bass Men’s Clinic talks about how aging affects testosterone and muscle mass in men
While the majority of people do know that testosterone is a hormone present in males, many may not know what this hormone actually does. Testosterone helps in building muscle mass by generating proteins, which subsequently results in increased muscle strength. If a man has adequate testosterone, it will help stimulate muscle growth.
As men approach middle age, typically around 40 years old, a natural decline in testosterone levels begins to take place. This reduction in testosterone is a gradual process, with levels dropping by approximately 1 to 2 % each year. By the time men reach the age of 45 and more, it becomes increasingly common for them to experience testosterone levels that fall below the average range for their age group. In fact, more than one-third of men over the age of 45 are believed to have testosterone levels that are considered lower than normal. This hormonal decline often leads to a range of physical and emotional symptoms. Men may find themselves feeling more fatigued than usual, are likely to experience mood disturbances such as depression, as well as could also begin to notice a reduction in body and facial hair. Moreover, decreased testosterone has implications for physical health beyond appearance and energy levels. According to Evan Bass Men’s Clinic,  low testosterone levels might lead to a loss in muscle mass and contribute to weakened bone structure, increasing the risk of fractures due to brittle bones.
Alongside hormonal change, men also face a natural age-related decline in muscle mass. Adults typically lose about 3 to 5 % of their muscle mass with each passing decade, beginning as early as age 30. As a man ages, the combined effects of low testosterone production, decreased physical activity, and the general aging process contributes to rapid muscle loss. Exercise, strength-based activities in particular, plays a vital role in counteracting these changes. Regular physical activity can help preserve muscle mass even as testosterone levels fall. A nutritious diet that includes sufficient amounts of protein also goes a long way in supporting muscle maintenance and development. Even though there are several types of exercise that help in improving the overall health of a man, strength training and compound movements like squats, deadlifts, and chest or shoulder presses are especially effective for building and retaining muscle. These multi-joint exercises tend to stimulate large muscle groups and trigger the release of growth hormones. This hormonal response aids in protein synthesis in a manner similar to the effects of testosterone, providing an alternative means to promote muscle development.
