We spend the earlier part of our lives building muscle to help support our bodies, give us mobility, and provide the strength we need to do all the things we love to do. But as we age, we begin to lose muscle mass and strength through a natural degenerative process called sarcopenia.

Sarcopenia is characterized by a decrease in the size of muscle, known as muscle atrophy, along with other changes in skeletal muscle fibers including muscle being replaced by fat. This age-related muscle loss usually begins around age 40 and can occur at rates of up to 8% to 15% each decade.

While age-related muscle loss is a natural process that happens to us all, there are some factors that can increase the speed at which sarcopenia occurs. These include lack of physical activity or an inadequate intake of calories and/or protein to sustain muscle mass. This can lead to some serious issues such as:

• Slower recovery from illness, injury or surgery
• Loss of independence
• Less mobility and/or increased risk of falls
• Decrease in strength and energy leading to difficulty in performing daily activities

Fortunately, there are ways to slow the process of age-related muscle loss. Exercise, proper nutrition and a special ingredient called HMB that can help slow the effects of sarcopenia and even help rebuild lost muscle.

Exercise Treatments for Sarcopenia
Strength and resistance training can help fight the negative effects of sarcopenia. Regular exercise can also help improve blood sugar control, heart health, weight control and muscle recovery. Plus, it helps with feelings of well-being and self-esteem. Talk to your doctor for an exercise program that’s right for you.

Reversing Sarcopenia with Nutrition

Taking control of your nutrition, especially making sure to get the recommended levels of protein, may reduce risk and moderate the effects of sarcopenia. Good nutrition can help:

• Improve strength and energy
• Improve healing
• Gain/maintain healthy weight
• Decrease health complications following illness or injury

The Power of HMB and Protein

Another important element of proper nutrition is HMB (β-hydroxy- β-methylbutyrate). HMB is a compound naturally found in the human body and in small amounts within foods like avocados, grapefruit, and catfish. HMB plus protein can actually help rebuild and maintain lost muscle. The only problem is that it is difficult to get enough HMB to impact muscle health through food alone.

There are many protein shakes and nutritional supplements on the market. But only Ensure Enlive gives you the vital nutrients your body needs plus HMB and 20 grams of protein to help you:

• Regain strength and energy
• Remain active and independent
• Maintain muscle for strength and mobility
• Support recovery from illness, injury, and surgery

There’s an Ensure shake that’s right for you. Try our product finder.