Older adults can build muscle mass without using steroids, but it may require a different approach than for younger individuals. As people age, their bodies produce fewer hormones that promote muscle growth, and their muscles may not respond as strongly to exercise. However, research has shown that older adults can still build muscle through resistance training and proper nutrition. One study found that men and women in their 60s and 70s who began supervised weight training developed muscles that were as large and strong as those of younger individuals.
To build muscle mass after 50, it's important to focus on progressive overload, which means gradually increasing the weight or resistance used in exercises over time. Adequate protein intake is also essential, as it helps to support muscle growth and repair. Additionally, older adults should aim to eat enough calories to support muscle growth, and they may need to adjust their macronutrient ratios to ensure they're consuming enough protein and carbohydrates. It's also important to note that building muscle takes time and patience, and older adults may need to be more consistent with their training and nutrition to see results.