As we age, maintaining muscle mass becomes increasingly important for our overall health and mobility. Yet, many women find themselves struggling to prevent muscle loss, especially once they hit their 40s. These changes can be frustrating, but there's good news. We can combat this age-related muscle loss, known as sarcopenia, with the right knowledge and strategies. Muscle health isn't just about aesthetics. Yes, it helps us avoid those saggy arms or the dreaded muffin top, but more importantly, muscle is a huge indicator of overall health and longevity. The more muscle we retain, the healthier we are. Strong muscles lead to better bone health, improved vitality, and a longer life. Key Factors Contributing to Muscle Loss 1. Aging: Naturally, we lose 8% of our muscle every decade from ages 40 to 70. This rate increases to 15% per decade after 70. 2. Insulin Resistance: As we age, hormonal changes make us more prone to insulin resistance, leading to more belly fat and overall fat storage, which is inflammatory and impacts muscle health. 3. Hormonal Changes: Perimenopause and menopause accelerate sarcopenia if we don't adjust our diet and lifestyle. 4. Low Protein Diets:  Many women, despite thinking they have a good diet, often don't consume enough protein. 5. Sedentary Lifestyle: Lack of physical activity, especially resistance training, worsens muscle loss. Steps to Reverse Age-Related Muscle Loss 1. Protein Intake Protein is vital for muscle protein synthesis. Aim for at least 1 gram of protein per kilo of body weight daily. If you’re more active, this requirement increases. Whether through animal or plant proteins, ensure you’re meeting your protein needs. For vegetarians and vegans, consider supplementing with leucine or branched-chain amino acids. 2. Carbohydrate Management Managing carbohydrate intake to prevent insulin resistance is crucial. Avoid processed carbs and sugars to reduce inflammation and improve insulin sensitivity. Focus on whole, unprocessed foods to help maintain muscle and overall health. 3. Resistance Training Engage in resistance training 2-3 times a week. Using your body weight, weights, or tools like Pilates bands can build strength and muscle mass. I recommend working with a personal trainer to ensure the exercises are effective and safe. 4. Vitamin D and Sunlight Vitamin D deficiency often stems from inadequate sun exposure. Aim for some sunlight daily to support bone health. During winter, even face and hand exposure for 15 minutes can be beneficial. 5. Prioritising Sleep Quality sleep is essential for muscle recovery and overall health. Poor sleep disrupts your circadian rhythm and increases cortisol, which can lead to muscle loss. Aim for consistent, restorative sleep each night. Maintaining muscle mass as you age doesn’t have to be complicated. By understanding and effectively managing your protein intake throughout the day, you can stay strong and lean well into your 40s and beyond. Remember, it’s not just about how much protein you consume, but how you distribute it that makes the biggest impact on your muscle health. Website: vesnahrsto.com Mentioned in this episode: Buh-Bye Burnout