Muscle loss
Gradual loss of muscle and strength, especially with age or illness.
9 findings across 4 topics. Strongest evidence: Strength Training (A), HMB (C).
Grades show how certain the evidence is, not how big the effect is. How we grade evidence
What helps
Strength Training
- Builds muscle and strength — Benefit, grade A: Strong
HMB
- Builds muscle mass in older adults — Benefit, grade C: Limited
- Helps keep muscle during bed rest — Benefit, grade C: Limited
Mixed evidence
HMB
- Preserves muscle strength — Mixed results, grade C: Limited
Protein Powder
- Helps older adults build muscle — Mixed results, grade C: Limited
Doesn't seem to help
HMB
- Adds to the benefits of resistance training — No effect, grade B: Moderate
- Helps muscle in cirrhosis — No effect, grade C: Limited
- Helps muscle in people on dialysis — No effect, grade C: Limited
Risks and things that may make it worse
Cold Water Immersion
- Blunts muscle growth and strength adaptations from resistance training — Harm, grade B: Moderate