Hello, hormonal changes and that ‘older and wiser’ mantra many seem to love throwing around.
But one sneaky little guest often skips the spotlight: Sarcopenia.
In simple terms, Sarcopenia is the slow and steady shrinking of your muscle mass and strength – kind of like your muscles deciding they’re ready for semi-retirement.
According to health experts, this condition begins as early as our 30’s, with muscle mass declining by 3-8% every decade thereafter.
For Malaysians, the statistics are alarming: 1 in 3 individuals faces this issue, making Sarcopenia an emerging public health concern.
What Exactly is Sarcopenia?
Sarcopenia might sound like a fancy medical term, but it’s a condition that can have a profound impact on daily life.
Simple tasks like climbing stairs or carrying groceries can become noticeably harder as muscle loss creeps in.
And it’s not just about the physical challenges.
Sarcopenia can also take an emotional toll, especially for caregivers juggling their own wellbeing while supporting ageing parents and young children.
And the effects go beyond just weaker muscles.
Sarcopenia increases the risk of falls and fractures due to reduced strength and stability, often threatening a person’s independence as they age.
This gradual loss of muscle mass doesn’t happen overnight.
It’s a slow process that accelerates with age, particularly for those with sedentary lifestyles or poor nutrition.
By the time someone reaches their 70s or 80s, the cumulative effects can lead to significant limitations in mobility and overall function.
Experts Weigh In On Preventing Sarcopenia: Small Changes, Big Impact
The good news?
Sarcopenia isn’t inevitable.
A combination of regular exercise and a diet rich in protein and calcium can go a long way in maintaining muscle health.
Specialising in Rehabilitation Medicine in ReGen Rehab Hospital, expert Prof Datin Dr Lydia Abdul Latiff places a strong emphasis on the importance of incorporating nutrient rich fortified milk into your daily routine which works to boost protein intake.
Prof Lydia explains that sufficient protein intake is essential for muscle repair and growth, and fortified milk offers a convenient, nutrient-packed solution to address this need.
On the other hand, Dr Ramani A/P Arumugam, Consultant Geriatrician and Physician at ReGen Rehab Hospital further adds that prevention is possible with small but consistent changes.
‘Eating a healthy diet rich in protein, calcium and vitamin D along with regular exercise, can make a big difference,’ she explains.
To gain further insights into the role of nutrition and exercise in combating Sarcopenia, watch our video featuring these experts below:
Marigold HL SuperMilk®: A Simple Solution
Marigold HL SuperMilk® is a game-changer in this fight against Sarcopenia.
Fortified with 31% more protein and 38% more calcium compared to ordinary milk, Marigold HL SuperMilk® provides essential nutrients to build and maintain muscle mass.
Two glasses of Marigold HL SuperMilk® deliver 20g of protein, which is about a third of the daily protein requirement for an average adult.
For caregivers, Marigold HL SuperMilk® offers a dual benefit – it helps maintain their parents’ strength and independence while ensuring they stay strong enough to manage their busy lives.
Incorporating it into your family’s diet is a small but powerful step toward better health for everyone.
Don’t Let Sarcopenia Steal Your Strength
Worried about the statistics and risks of Sarcopenia?
Don’t – there’s always hope!
By embracing small but meaningful lifestyle changes, you can protect your health and the wellbeing of your loved ones.
Marigold HL SuperMilk®, with its high protein and calcium content, offers an easy and affordable way to stay strong.
But of course, pair this with consistent exercise to set yourself and your family for a healthier, stronger future.
So, don’t delay! Start today because every small step matters.
Visit the Marigold HL SuperMilk® official website to discover the healthier choice for you and your family today!
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not be considered as medical advice from Motherhood. For any health-related concerns, it is advisable to consult with a qualified healthcare professional or medical practitioner.
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