View source for Muscle Atrophy - Female

== What Does It Mean? ==

* Muscle atrophy is the progressive loss of muscle mass and strength, commonly due to aging, hormonal imbalances, or inadequate protein intake.
* Functional medicine addresses muscle atrophy by focusing on nutrition, hormonal balance, mitochondrial function, and targeted supplementation to support muscle regeneration.

== How Did We Get Here? ==

=== Root Causes & Contributing Factors: ===

* Hormonal Imbalances: Low testosterone, cortisol imbalances, or insufficient DHEA can contribute to muscle loss.
* Protein Deficiency: Inadequate protein intake leads to impaired muscle repair and growth.
* Chronic Inflammation: Systemic inflammation contributes to muscle degradation and weakness.
* Nutrient Deficiencies: Low levels of essential amino acids, vitamins, and minerals impede muscle maintenance.
* Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity accelerates muscle wasting.

=== Signs & Symptoms: ===

* Decreased muscle mass and strength
* Fatigue and overall weakness
* Difficulty performing daily tasks
* Slow muscle recovery after exercise
* Increased risk of falls and injuries

=== Lab Test Findings ===
The following lab tests help assess factors contributing to muscle atrophy:
{| class="wikitable"
|'''Lab Test Name'''
|'''Expected Changes'''
|'''Optimal Range'''
|-
|ALT (SGPT)
|Normal or Increased
|10.00-26.00 U/L 
|-
|AST (SGOT)
|Normal or Increased
|10.00-26.00 U/L 
|-
|AST (SGOT) : ALT (SGPT) Ratio
|Altered
|0.00-1.00
|-
|Color
|Dark/Tea-Colored 
|Yellow
|-
|Cortisol : DHEA-S Ratio
|Altered
|0.00-0.09
|-
|Creatinine
|Decreased
|0.80-1.10 mg/dL
|-
|Testosterone, Total (Female)
|Decreased
|250.00-1100.00 ng/dL
|}

== How Do We Treat It? ==
Treatment focuses on supporting muscle regeneration, hormonal balance, and optimal nutrient intake.

=== Supplement Protocol ===
{| class="wikitable"
|'''Supplement'''
|'''Function''' 
|'''Dosage & Frequency'''
|-
|Vascuzyme
|Supports circulation and reduces inflammation
|2 capsules without food, daily
|-
|V-Pax
|Provides essential nutrients for muscle repair and hormonal balance
|2 capsules without food, daily
|-
|Perfect Protein
|Supplies high-quality protein to support muscle regeneration
|1 scoop of powder with or without food, daily
|}

=== Additional Lifestyle Interventions: ===

* Increase Protein Intake: Ensure adequate high-quality protein sources to support muscle synthesis.
* Strength Training: Incorporate resistance exercises to maintain and rebuild muscle mass.
* Hormonal Support: Address underlying hormonal imbalances that contribute to muscle atrophy.
* Optimize Nutrient Intake: Include essential amino acids, magnesium, and antioxidants.
* Manage Inflammation: Reduce processed foods and include anti-inflammatory nutrients.
* Monitor & Retest: Follow up with lab testing to assess progress and make necessary adjustments.