You know about osteoporosis but are you aware of muscle wasting

You know about osteoporosis but are you aware of muscle wasting

In the Science Times of September 4th, the weekly column called, “Personal Health,” by Jane Brody talked about an entity called “sarcopenia”. This is the wasting of muscle that is seen in elderly patients. It can begin as early as age 40. It can become extremely pronounced in women in their 60’s. And as women approach their 80’s and beyond, it is increasingly recognized as a major impediment to continued health and well-being. It is a major component of “frailty.” Why is this so important?  A 50-year-old women, who does not already have cancer or heart disease, has a life expectancy of 91! Thus, concerns about “healthy aging” are an extremely important part of what I am helping my patients accomplish. Many of you know that I have had a particular interest in bone health, preventing osteoporosis, diagnosing bone mass with bone density testing and talking to many of you about fall prevention and balance exercise. Sarcopenia and its loss of muscle can be just as devastating to the elderly as loss of bone. Resistive exercises are important. Walking, biking and cardiovascular machines are good for you but do not build muscle mass. Only resistive exercises and strength training can do so.

Adequate protein in one’s diet is crucial. An adult female who weighs 150 pounds should be eating approximately 81 grams of protein per day. Foods that are relatively high in protein include (believe it or not) peanut butter, for which two table spoons have 8 grams of protein; one cup of non-fat milk, 8.8 grams; two medium eggs, 11.4 grams; one chicken drum stick, 12.2 grams; one half cup of cottage cheese, 15 grams; and 3 ounces of flounder or turkey, 25 grams.

Again, if you have any concerns about this or any other aspects of your overall health, please do not hesitate to contact us.

I remain yours in health

Dr. Goldstein