Muscle Loss Linked to Chronic Inflammation

Many physiological changes occur with aging, and recent research shows that sarcopenia and loss of overall muscle strength can be added to the list of health concerns associated with unaddressed inflammation.

Recent research shows that age-related chronic low-grade inflammation is a contributing factor to sarcopenia and affects both the breakdown and synthesis of muscle. Older people who suffer from sarcopenia are more likely to have high blood levels of inflammatory markers such as CRP, SED rate, and adiponectin.

What Is Sarcopenia?

Sarcopenia is the age-related loss of muscle mass, strength and function that generally appears after age 40 and accelerates after 75. Between 25–50% of North Americans over 65 suffer from sarcopenia significant enough to limit their daily activities.

Age-related muscle loss robs older adults of strength, independence and increases risks of injury and potentially fatal falls. While common in inactive adults, sarcopenia can also affect those who remain physically active. It is multifactorial — linked to inflammation, nutritional issues, lack of resistance training, neurological decline and mitochondrial decline.

Prevent and Slow Muscle Loss

Exercise and proper nutrient intake remain key strategies. But during periods of inactivity — such as post-surgery or injury — mobility may be severely limited.

One clinical trial found that supplementing with Essential Amino Acids (EAA) helped maintain lean leg mass over 28 days of inactivity. Participants retained significantly more muscle strength than the control group.

Simply increasing dietary protein isn't always enough. Your body needs complete essential amino acids to effectively synthesize muscle fibers, repair tissue and maintain strength.

Check Your Inflammation

Inflammation is meant to be a temporary immune response. However, when inflammation becomes chronic, it drains the body’s resources and causes tissue and organ damage.

A blood test can measure CRP (C-Reactive Protein), a key inflammatory marker. While not site-specific, it offers a reliable picture of overall inflammation levels.

To support a healthy inflammatory response:
• Avoid pro-inflammatory foods
• Eat antioxidant-rich vegetables
• Choose healthy fats
• Stay hydrated
• Manage stress and maintain healthy weight

Use It or Lose It

Regular exercise is critical to preserving muscle strength, coordination, and function. Resistance training — using weights, bands, or machines — is the most effective for slowing muscle atrophy.

New anti-inflammatory research shows just 20 minutes of moderate activity reduced TNF (a key inflammation marker) by 5%.

Pairing exercise, proper nutrition, supplementation and stress management makes it possible to support healthy inflammation and protect muscle strength at any age.