Managing low estrogen, low muscle mass, osteopenia, and hair loss

Did your PCP inquire into your diet? Are you consuming enough protein every day? Muscle growth (or maintenance) relies on adequate protein intake. Stuff like eggs, dairy, chicken, salmon, etc. all help.

Yes, thanks, I've been sure to include 1 or 2 protein sources in each meal for months.

Sounds as though you have received sound advice regarding use of creatinine for low muscle mass. Increasing protein intake is a good idea. The addition of a daily collagen supplement has been reported to help many including myself because as we age we aren’t able to absorb the nutrients from food as we did when we were younger. This forum has many posts on the use of Algecal powder with Fortibone and Fortigel. I have been using this particular product for over 6 months and have noted an improvement in my hair and nails. I am hoping to prevent osteoporosis, that remains to be seen. There may be other collagen products that you prefer, please research on this topic.

Thanks for your reply! I'll research Algecal powder with Fortibone and Fortigel and ask my PCP about adding this to my regimen. Fortibone sounds so familiar... I think my GYN might have recommended something similar but it consisted of capsules rather than a powder. I'll check that as well!

I am in my 80's and found I was losing my hair as evidenced by what was left in my comb. I thought it was aging. I saw my doc who did blood tests. My B12 was in the low normal range. I have since been getting monthly B12 injections (prescribed for just 4 months and so far I have had just one) and take 1000 mcg tablet each day. I no longer have abnormal hair loss.

Wow! I'll add that to my regimen as well. Thank you!

I am 73 yo female and seeing a dr about estrogen supplementation, so not sure her opinion but I read that it can help. I do find that strength training is a must. I had to stop for total knee replacement but I plan to restart and am beginning with wall pushups and stairs along with core and legwork. Walking is very important and gets me out in nature for a mood boost too. This rehab is slower than I’d expected. I am finding many strength classes tailored for older adults.

Best wishes with regard to rehab after your total knee replacement! Are your classes online or local?

Such an important thread for me! Thank you for starting this discussion.

I have osteopenia, diagnosed in 2021. I'm now 57. I had/have hyperparathyroidism and had two glands removed in 2021. I have to supplement calcium at 1200 mg a day and check my vitamin D regularly.

I am developing kyphosis, so I'm obviously not doing enough here.

I am also on oral minoxidil at 2.5 mg. It had made a huge difference for me. I no longer look balding. I have thicker eyelashes. My brows have filled in a lot. All of these things really increase my well-being because they're preserving my sense of self. I do have to do more maintenance for all the hair I don't want. 😂 But it's totally worth it.

I tried mail order HRT, but found it ineffective. It seemed to give me more joint pain, bloating and tenderness, and decreased energy? I think testosterone might be the missing piece. I may find a in-person doctor for this.

Creatine is a good suggestion. I need to make that part of my day. Also, protein intake and weight training.

@kgs22

You may find Dr. Susan Hardwick-Smith interesting and informative to watch on YouTube