The TV commentator Xu Shengmei recently suffered a bone fracture after a fall. Subsequent examinations revealed that she had sarcopenia, with a severe deficiency in leg muscle mass, causing her to sustain serious injuries from the fall. Director Li Chunying of Kaohsiung Medical University Chung-Ho Memorial Hospital reminded that one in five women in Taiwan faces muscle loss issues. Especially after age 40, declining estrogen levels affect protein absorption and muscle synthesis, accelerating declines in muscle strength and endurance.Improving muscle loss and maintaining regular exercise are certainly important. (Image provided by Heho Health)

Director Fang Zirong of the Department of Geriatrics pointed out that sarcopenia is often mistaken for normal aging. Symptoms such as lower back pain, fatigue, and limb weakness may be warning signs. If not addressed early, it can lead to falls, fractures, and even loss of self-care ability, becoming a heavy burden for individuals and families.
Exercise combined with nutrition helps improve muscle loss. (Image provided by Heho Health)

Director Li also shared a clinic case of an elderly person living alone who developed significant weight loss and mobility issues due to poor nutrition, and was later diagnosed with sarcopenia. She recommends combining exercise with nutritional supplementation in daily life, including 30 kcal per kilogram of body weight, 1.1 grams of protein, plus sufficient intake of vitamins and minerals. If necessary, nutritional supplements can help fill the gaps, effectively preventing muscle loss and related risks.