白幼瘦审美下，年轻女性的“肌少症”更常见了

Core Viewpoint - The issue of muscle atrophy, previously associated mainly with the elderly, is increasingly affecting younger populations, particularly young women, due to lifestyle choices and societal beauty standards [1][10][12]. Summary by Sections Muscle Atrophy Trends - Muscle atrophy, or sarcopenia, is a progressive loss of skeletal muscle quality and strength, traditionally seen in older adults, but is now emerging in younger women, starting as early as age 35 [10][22]. - The World Health Organization (WHO) reports that approximately one-third of adults globally, around 1.8 billion, are insufficiently active, with a higher proportion of women [1][7]. Factors Contributing to Muscle Loss - Many individuals begin to lose 3% to 5% of lean muscle mass every decade after age 30, with women experiencing this loss earlier and more significantly due to lower baseline muscle mass compared to men [3][10]. - Young women often engage in low-frequency exercise, such as yoga and Pilates, which may not provide sufficient stimulus for muscle growth, leading to rapid declines in muscle strength and endurance when exercise is halted [6][19]. Societal Influences and Beauty Standards - The prevailing beauty standards that favor thinness contribute to a lack of focus on muscle health among young women, who may prioritize weight loss over muscle maintenance [12][15]. - The marketing of health products often emphasizes weight loss rather than muscle gain, further perpetuating the issue [12][13]. Symptoms and Health Implications - Symptoms of muscle loss in young women may be subtle, including mild muscle weakness and increased fatigue, while older women exhibit more pronounced symptoms such as significant muscle weakness and mobility issues [25][22]. - The lack of resistance training and poor nutritional habits, such as insufficient protein intake, exacerbate the risk of developing sarcopenia [19][29]. Recommendations for Prevention - To combat muscle loss, it is recommended that young women engage in resistance training 2-3 times a week, alongside a balanced diet rich in protein and essential nutrients [28][29]. - Incorporating simple exercises and ensuring adequate nutritional intake can help maintain muscle mass and overall health [29][30].