Vital Signs: Muscle Mass
A scale is the most common way people keep tabs on their weight but for those who prefer not to focus on numbers, a favorite pair of pants feeling too snug can signal it's time to pull-in the reins on snacks, portion sizes and up the exercise routine. Reconnecting to your Why is always helpful, too. Besides the scale, for decades, health pros have relied on these quick and easy standard measures of health:
Body Mass Index (BMI)
Waist-Hip-Ratio (WHR)
Waist Circumference
Well, there's a 'new kid' in town that's getting attention in the medical field that's being looked at as a new 'vital sign': Muscle Mass
Now, don't think bodybuilder; think functionality.
We naturally lose 1% of our muscle mass every year after the age of about 40 unless we are working to maintain it. While 1% may seem inconsequential, multiply that by a few decades and it really matters. The decline negatively impacts our metabolism as well and makes it harder to maintain a healthy weight as we age. Unless we are working to maintain it.
Carla Prado, PhD, RD, associate professor at the University of Alberta Canada in her research suggests that muscle mass should be viewed as a vital sign and that if healthcare professionals can identify and treat low muscle mass, it can significantly improve their patient's health outcomes. Her comments came from a review of over 140 studies of inpatient, outpatient and long-term care settings that found people with less muscle mass had:
*more surgical and post-op complications
*longer hospital stays
*lower physical function
*poorer life quality
*shorter lives overall
Invest in your physical well-being like you do your financial future.
Just two times per week for strength training can maintain your muscle mass. (Three times or every other day is the 'sweet-spot' for best results.) It needn't be complicated. Start where you are. And remember, no one finds time for exercise. We must make it. Our health & life quality depend on it.
I'd be honored to be your encourager and guide. DM me for a judgement-free chat about up-leveling your habits.
