Preventing and Managing Sarcopenia in Older Adults through Physical Activity, Exercise and Nutrition Interventions and Approaches

Topic Information

Dear Colleagues,

We are delighted to invite you to contribute to this interdisciplinary multidisciplinary topic area in collaboration with Biology, International Journal of Molecular Sciences, Nutrients, Journal of Clinical Medicine, Life, Healthcare and Geriatrics. The focus of this topic area is sarcopenia, a highly prevalent muscle-wasting disorder, especially in older adults who tend to suffer from poor nutrition and have reduced physical activity levels. The synergistic effect of exercise and dietary protein is paramount, but not exclusive, for the successful management of sarcopenia through optimization of muscle protein synthesis (MPS) rates. International expert groups such as the European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism have long called for higher protein intakes in relation to the current recommended daily allowance (RDA), specifically for older adults with acute or chronic disease and those experiencing severe illness or injury. Alongside the importance of consuming sufficient dietary protein, effective sarcopenia management also depends on the quantity and quality of protein consumed on a “per meal” basis. Nevertheless, achieving a daily protein intake that exceeds the RDA presents a profound challenge for older adults, partly due to age-related anorexia. Other nutritional strategies or supplementation with certain nutrients (e.g., creatine, omega-3 fatty acids) may directly or indirectly influence MPS. Since exercise enhances the anabolic potential of nutrients, it is imperative that exercise interventions complement nutritional interventions where appropriate to optimize MPS.

The purpose of this investigation is to provide an overview of the most recent advances involving physical activity, exercise and nutrition for the optimal management and prevention of acute or chronic sarcopenia in older adults. We welcome original research articles and reviews from basic, clinical and translational research focusing on muscle quality and function, anabolic resistance, cognitive function, health-related quality of life and gut health.

We look forward to receiving your contributions.

Dr. Theocharis Ispoglou
Dr. Matthew Lees
Prof. Dr. James McKenna
Topic Editors

Keywords

Participating Journals

Journal Name	Impact Factor	CiteScore	Launched Year	First Decision (median)	APC
Biology biology	4.2	4.0	2012	18.7 Days	CHF 2700
Geriatrics geriatrics	2.3	2.7	2016	22.4 Days	CHF 1800
Healthcare healthcare	2.8	2.7	2013	19.5 Days	CHF 2700
International Journal of Molecular Sciences ijms	5.6	7.8	2000	16.3 Days	CHF 2900
Journal of Clinical Medicine jcm	3.9	5.4	2012	17.9 Days	CHF 2600
Life life	3.2	2.7	2011	17.5 Days	CHF 2600
Nutrients nutrients	5.9	9.0	2009	14.5 Days	CHF 2900

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Published Papers (9 papers)

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17 pages, 667 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Ophiocephalus striatus Extract Supplementation Decreases Serum IL-6 Levels in Older People with Sarcopenia—A Single-Center Experience

by Nur Riviati, Legiran Legiran, Irsan Saleh, Taufik Indrajaya, Zulkhair Ali, Irfannuddin and Probosuseno

Geriatrics 2024, 9(2), 35; https://doi.org/10.3390/geriatrics9020035 - 07 Mar 2024

Viewed by 904

Abstract

Sarcopenia, a condition characterized by muscle loss and decreased function in older adults, is a growing public health concern. This study aimed to investigate the effects of Ophiocephalus striatus extract on insulin-like growth factor-1 serum, interleukin-6 serum levels, and sarcopenia-related parameters in older [...] Read more.

Sarcopenia, a condition characterized by muscle loss and decreased function in older adults, is a growing public health concern. This study aimed to investigate the effects of Ophiocephalus striatus extract on insulin-like growth factor-1 serum, interleukin-6 serum levels, and sarcopenia-related parameters in older adults with sarcopenia. This double-blind randomized controlled trial included 80 older adults with sarcopenia. Participants were randomly assigned to receive Ophiocephalus striatus extract or a placebo for two weeks. The IGF-1 serum and IL-6 serum levels were assessed as primary outcomes. The Ophiocephalus striatus extract intervention resulted in a significant reduction in serum IL-6 levels. Although the IGF-1 levels did not show significant changes, there was an increase for the intervention group. This study demonstrated that a 2-week intervention with Ophiocephalus striatus extract positively impacted the serum IL-6 levels in older adults with sarcopenia. While the IGF-1 levels did not change significantly in this short intervention period, the observed improvements in IGF-1, calf circumference, muscle mass, and muscle strength are promising. The findings suggest that Ophiocephalus striatus extract may offer a valuable intervention for managing sarcopenia, particularly in regions with abundant Ophiocephalus striatus production, such as South Sumatera. This study was registered with trial number NCT05869383. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Preventing and Managing Sarcopenia in Older Adults through Physical Activity, Exercise and Nutrition Interventions and Approaches)

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11 pages, 846 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Effectiveness of a Remote Monitoring-Based Home Training System for Preventing Frailty in Older Adults in Japan: A Preliminary Randomized Controlled Trial

by Yasuhiro Suzuki, Yukiyo Shimizu, Yuichiro Soma, Takaaki Matsuda, Yasushi Hada and Masao Koda

Geriatrics 2024, 9(1), 20; https://doi.org/10.3390/geriatrics9010020 - 18 Feb 2024

Viewed by 1930

Abstract

This study examined whether SUKUBARA^®, a remotely managed training system that we developed, could improve skeletal muscle mass and muscle strength in community-dwelling older adults. SUKUBARA^® is a composite exercise program that combines lower-load resistance training and balance exercises. Participants [...] Read more.

This study examined whether SUKUBARA^®, a remotely managed training system that we developed, could improve skeletal muscle mass and muscle strength in community-dwelling older adults. SUKUBARA^® is a composite exercise program that combines lower-load resistance training and balance exercises. Participants were instructed to exercise while watching individually assigned videos on YouTube, such that the research administrators could verify the viewing records of each participant. Fifteen participants (69 ± 4 years) were randomly assigned to the intervention (eight participants; the RT group) or the control group (seven participants; the CO group). The primary endpoint was a change in fat-free mass (FFM; kg), whereas the secondary endpoints included a change in knee extension strength (KES; Nm/kg). Correlation analyses were conducted to examine the relationship between FFM and KES. During the 12-week intervention period, significant differences were observed between the RT and CO groups in the changes in FFM (0.5 ± 0.5 vs. −0.1 ± 0.5) and KES (0.20 ± 0.22 vs. 0.02 ± 0.13), and significant positive correlations were found between the changes. Thus, SUKUBARA^®-based interventions have the potential to improve muscle hypertrophy and enhance muscle strength among community-dwelling older adults. Thus, SUKUBARA^® -based interventions show promise in improving muscle hypertrophy and enhance muscle strength among community-dwelling older adults. However, appropriately powered future research is needed to replicate these findings. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Preventing and Managing Sarcopenia in Older Adults through Physical Activity, Exercise and Nutrition Interventions and Approaches)

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11 pages, 651 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

The Impact of the Physical Activity Level on Sarcopenic Obesity in Community-Dwelling Older Adults

by Seongmin Choi, Jinmann Chon, Myung Chul Yoo, Ga Yang Shim, Minjung Kim, Miji Kim, Yunsoo Soh and Chang Won Won

Healthcare 2024, 12(3), 349; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare12030349 - 30 Jan 2024

Viewed by 646

Abstract

Previous studies have reported that low levels of physical activity result in sarcopenic obesity (SO). However, the effects of specific intensities of physical activity on SO and the optimal amount of physical activity for lowering the prevalence of SO have not been well [...] Read more.

Previous studies have reported that low levels of physical activity result in sarcopenic obesity (SO). However, the effects of specific intensities of physical activity on SO and the optimal amount of physical activity for lowering the prevalence of SO have not been well studied. This study aimed to identify the effects of physical activity levels and intensity on SO and the optimal amount of physical activity related to a lower prevalence of SO. This cross-sectional study used data from the nationwide Korean Frailty and Aging Cohort Study (KFACS), which included 2071 older adults (1030 men, 1041 women). SO was defined according to the criteria of the European Society for Clinical Nutrition Metabolism (ESPEN) and the European Association for the Study of Obesity (EASO). Multivariate logistic regression analysis was performed to investigate the association between the physical activity level and SO. The high activity group had a significantly lower prevalence of SO than the non-high activity (low and moderate activity) group. On the other hand, moderate-intensity physical activity was associated with a lower prevalence of SO. A total physical activity energy expenditure of > 3032 kcal/week (433 kcal/day) for men and 2730 kcal/week (390 kcal/day) for women was associated with a reduced prevalence of SO. The high physical activity and total physical energy expenditure described above may be beneficial for reducing the prevalence of SO. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Preventing and Managing Sarcopenia in Older Adults through Physical Activity, Exercise and Nutrition Interventions and Approaches)

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22 pages, 1745 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Association of a Combination of Sarcopenia and Type 2 Diabetes with Blood Parameters, Nutrient Intake, and Physical Activity: A Nationwide Population-Based Study

by Mijin Kim and Toshiro Kobori

Nutrients 2023, 15(23), 4955; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15234955 - 29 Nov 2023

Viewed by 902

Abstract

This study aimed to investigate the association of sarcopenia and type 2 diabetes (T2D) with blood parameters, nutrient intake, and physical activity in older Korean adults. We divided 2952 participants into four groups: sarcopenic diabetes (SD), sarcopenia alone (S), diabetes alone (D), and [...] Read more.

This study aimed to investigate the association of sarcopenia and type 2 diabetes (T2D) with blood parameters, nutrient intake, and physical activity in older Korean adults. We divided 2952 participants into four groups: sarcopenic diabetes (SD), sarcopenia alone (S), diabetes alone (D), and non-sarcopenia and non-diabetes (NSND). Sarcopenia was defined by the appendicular skeletal muscle mass index, and T2D by fasting glucose levels or ongoing treatment. Blood samples were collected after an 8-h fast. Nutrient intake was assessed using a 24-h recall; physical activity was evaluated using a questionnaire. Compared with those in the other groups, the men in the S and SD groups showed significantly lower hemoglobin and hematocrit levels; vitamin D levels in men and parathyroid hormone levels in women were significantly lower in the SD group. Total energy, protein, and carbohydrate intakes were significantly lower in the SD and S groups than those in the D and NSND groups. Physical inactivity was significantly more common in the SD group (men: odds ratio, 1.61; women: odds ratio, 2.37) than in the NSND group. A combination of sarcopenia and diabetes as well as sarcopenia alone was associated with low levels of blood parameters, poor nutrient intake, and low physical activity. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Preventing and Managing Sarcopenia in Older Adults through Physical Activity, Exercise and Nutrition Interventions and Approaches)

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12 pages, 319 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Dynapenia and Sarcopenia in Post-COVID-19 Syndrome Hospitalized Patients Are Associated with Severe Reduction in Pulmonary Function

by Arturo Orea-Tejeda, Robinson Robles-Hernández, Dulce González-Islas, Luz Jimenez-Gallardo, Laura Gochicoa-Rangel, Armando Castorena-Maldonado, Rafael Hernández-Zenteno, Alvaro Montañez-Orozco and Benigno Valderrábano-Salas

J. Clin. Med. 2023, 12(20), 6466; https://doi.org/10.3390/jcm12206466 - 11 Oct 2023

Cited by 1 | Viewed by 1144

Abstract

Background: After hospital discharge, post-COVID-19 syndrome has been observed to be associated with impaired diffusing capacity, respiratory muscle strength, and lung imaging abnormalities, in addition to loss of muscle mass/strength, sarcopenia, and obesity impact exercise tolerance, pulmonary functions, and overall prognosis. However, the [...] Read more.

Background: After hospital discharge, post-COVID-19 syndrome has been observed to be associated with impaired diffusing capacity, respiratory muscle strength, and lung imaging abnormalities, in addition to loss of muscle mass/strength, sarcopenia, and obesity impact exercise tolerance, pulmonary functions, and overall prognosis. However, the relationship between lung function and the coexistence of obesity with low muscle strength and sarcopenia in post-COVID-19 patients remains poorly investigated. Therefore, our aim was to evaluate the association between lung function and the coexistence of obesity with dynapenia and sarcopenia in post-COVID-19 syndrome patients. Methods: This cross-sectional study included subjects who were hospitalized due to moderate to severe COVID-19, as confirmed by PCR testing. Subjects who could not be contacted, declined to participate, or died before the follow-up visit were excluded. Results: A total of 711 subjects were evaluated; the mean age was 53.64 ± 13.57 years, 12.4% had normal weight, 12.6% were dynapenic without obesity, 8.3% had sarcopenia, 41.6% had obesity, 21.2% had dynapenic obesity, and 3.8% had sarcopenic obesity. In terms of pulmonary function, the dynapenic subjects showed decreases of −3.45% in FEV₁, −12.61 cmH2O in MIP, and -12.85 cmH2O in MEP. On the other hand, the sarcopenic subjects showed decreases of −6.14 cmH2O in MIP and −11.64 cmH2O in MEP. The dynapenic obesity group displayed a reduction of −12.13% in PEF. Conclusions: In post-COVID-19 syndrome, dynapenia and sarcopenia—both with and without obesity—have been associated with lower lung function. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Preventing and Managing Sarcopenia in Older Adults through Physical Activity, Exercise and Nutrition Interventions and Approaches)

12 pages, 443 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Associations between Physical Activity and Kyphosis and Lumbar Lordosis Abnormalities, Pain, and Quality of Life in Healthy Older Adults: A Cross-Sectional Study

by Victoria Zaborova, Oxana Zolnikova, Natiya Dzhakhaya, Svetlana Prokhorova, Alexander Izotov, Tatyana Butkova, Vasiliy Pustovoyt, Ksenia Yurku, Dmitry Shestakov, Tatyana Zaytseva and Hassan Shafaei

Healthcare 2023, 11(19), 2651; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare11192651 - 29 Sep 2023

Viewed by 1026

Abstract

Significant evidence suggests that regular physical activity (PA) leads to numerous physical and psychological outcomes in the elderly. This cross-sectional study was designed to further explore this issue by investigating the associations between PA (measured by accelerometer) and kyphosis and lumbar lordosis abnormalities, [...] Read more.

Significant evidence suggests that regular physical activity (PA) leads to numerous physical and psychological outcomes in the elderly. This cross-sectional study was designed to further explore this issue by investigating the associations between PA (measured by accelerometer) and kyphosis and lumbar lordosis abnormalities, pain, and quality of life (QoL) in the elderly. In this cross-sectional study, 163 older adults (73 women) over 65 years of age (mean age: 68.70 ± 3.09) from Russia acted as participants. The following instruments were used to measure research variables: ActiGraph wGT3X-BT for measuring PA, spinal-mouse for measuring kyphosis and lumbar lordosis abnormalities, and the World Health Organization Quality of Life Scale (WHOQOL-BREF) questionnaire for measuring QoL. Pain was measured using two questions. The Independent t-test and a regression analysis were used to analyze data. The results showed that our sample participated on average in 15.8 min of moderate PA (MPA) per day, which is lower than the recommended guidelines. Men were significantly more physically active than women. In addition, MPA was significantly associated with lower kyphosis and lumbar lordosis abnormalities and pain in older adults. Finally, MPA was significantly associated with higher QoL. These findings indicate that PA is a critical concern for the elderly. Accordingly, physical educators and fitness instructors should adopt appropriate strategies to promote an active lifestyle among older adults. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Preventing and Managing Sarcopenia in Older Adults through Physical Activity, Exercise and Nutrition Interventions and Approaches)

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28 pages, 1166 KiB  

Open AccessReview

Recent Advances in Nutraceuticals for the Treatment of Sarcopenic Obesity

by Young-Chan Kim, Sang-Woo Ki, Hannah Kim, Sumin Kang, Hayoon Kim and Gwang-woong Go

Nutrients 2023, 15(17), 3854; https://doi.org/10.3390/nu15173854 - 04 Sep 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 2938

Abstract

Sarcopenic obesity, low muscle mass, and high body fat are growing health concerns in the aging population. This review highlights the need for standardized criteria and explores nutraceuticals as potential therapeutic agents. Sarcopenic obesity is associated with insulin resistance, inflammation, hormonal changes, and [...] Read more.

Sarcopenic obesity, low muscle mass, and high body fat are growing health concerns in the aging population. This review highlights the need for standardized criteria and explores nutraceuticals as potential therapeutic agents. Sarcopenic obesity is associated with insulin resistance, inflammation, hormonal changes, and reduced physical activity. These factors lead to impaired muscle activity, intramuscular fat accumulation, and reduced protein synthesis, resulting in muscle catabolism and increased fat mass. Myostatin and irisin are myokines that regulate muscle synthesis and energy expenditure, respectively. Nutritional supplementation with vitamin D and calcium is recommended for increasing muscle mass and reducing body fat content. Testosterone therapy decreases fat mass and improves muscle strength. Vitamin K, specifically menaquinone-4 (MK-4), improves mitochondrial function and reduces muscle damage. Irisin is a hormone secreted during exercise that enhances oxidative metabolism, prevents insulin resistance and obesity, and improves bone quality. Low-glycemic-index diets and green cardamom are potential methods for managing sarcopenic obesity. In conclusion, along with exercise and dietary support, nutraceuticals, such as vitamin D, calcium, vitamin K, and natural agonists of irisin or testosterone, can serve as promising future therapeutic alternatives. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Preventing and Managing Sarcopenia in Older Adults through Physical Activity, Exercise and Nutrition Interventions and Approaches)

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11 pages, 445 KiB  

Open AccessArticle

Sarcopenia and Anemia in Elderly Koreans: A Nationwide Population-Based Study

by Do-Youn Lee and Sunghoon Shin

Healthcare 2023, 11(17), 2428; https://doi.org/10.3390/healthcare11172428 - 30 Aug 2023

Viewed by 783

Abstract

Sarcopenia and anemia are common diseases in the elderly and are caused by various factors. In this study, the association between sarcopenia and anemia in an elderly Korean population was examined. The Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s cross-sectional, nationally representative Korea [...] Read more.

Sarcopenia and anemia are common diseases in the elderly and are caused by various factors. In this study, the association between sarcopenia and anemia in an elderly Korean population was examined. The Korea Centers for Disease Control and Prevention’s cross-sectional, nationally representative Korea National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey (KNHANES, 2008–2011) served as the source of the data for this study. Of the 2769 participants (1167 men and 1602 women) included in this study, a significant association was found between sarcopenia and anemia in the elderly in Korea. In Model 1, unadjusted for covariates, the prevalence of sarcopenia in all participants was 1.805 (95% CI 1.364–2.388) and 2.746 (95% CI 1.740–4.334) in men, and 1.494 (95% CI 1.045–2.138) in women. In Model 4, adjusted for all covariates, the prevalence of sarcopenia in all participants was 1.455 (95% CI 1.064–1.989) and 2.649 (95% CI 1.475–4.755) in men, but it was insignificant in women. While prior studies failed to consider variables such as exercise status and nutritional intake, this research incorporated these factors as covariates. Despite this comprehensive approach, this study still revealed an independent association between sarcopenia and anemia. Moreover, a significant association was uncovered among elderly men, with no corresponding association identified among women. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Preventing and Managing Sarcopenia in Older Adults through Physical Activity, Exercise and Nutrition Interventions and Approaches)

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27 pages, 1550 KiB  

Open AccessReview

A Narrative Review of Non-Pharmacological Strategies for Managing Sarcopenia in Older Adults with Cardiovascular and Metabolic Diseases

by Theocharis Ispoglou, Oliver Wilson, Deaglan McCullough, Luke Aldrich, Panagiotis Ferentinos, Gemma Lyall, Antonios Stavropoulos-Kalinoglou, Lauren Duckworth, Meghan A. Brown, Louise Sutton, Alexandra J. Potts, Victoria Archbold, Jackie Hargreaves and Jim McKenna

Biology 2023, 12(7), 892; https://doi.org/10.3390/biology12070892 - 21 Jun 2023

Cited by 2 | Viewed by 3427

Abstract

This narrative review examines the mechanisms underlying the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and metabolic diseases (MDs), along with their association with sarcopenia. Furthermore, non-pharmacological interventions to address sarcopenia in patients with these conditions are suggested. The significance of combined training in managing [...] Read more.

This narrative review examines the mechanisms underlying the development of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and metabolic diseases (MDs), along with their association with sarcopenia. Furthermore, non-pharmacological interventions to address sarcopenia in patients with these conditions are suggested. The significance of combined training in managing metabolic disease and secondary sarcopenia in type II diabetes mellitus is emphasized. Additionally, the potential benefits of resistance and aerobic training are explored. This review emphasises the role of nutrition in addressing sarcopenia in patients with CVD or MDs, focusing on strategies such as optimising protein intake, promoting plant-based protein sources, incorporating antioxidant-rich foods and omega-3 fatty acids and ensuring sufficient vitamin D levels. Moreover, the potential benefits of targeting gut microbiota through probiotics and prebiotic fibres in sarcopenic individuals are considered. Multidisciplinary approaches that integrate behavioural science are explored to enhance the uptake and sustainability of behaviour-based sarcopenia interventions. Future research should prioritise high-quality randomized controlled trials to refine exercise and nutritional interventions and investigate the incorporation of behavioural science into routine practices. Ultimately, a comprehensive and multifaceted approach is essential to improve health outcomes, well-being and quality of life in older adults with sarcopenia and coexisting cardiovascular and metabolic diseases. Full article

(This article belongs to the Topic Preventing and Managing Sarcopenia in Older Adults through Physical Activity, Exercise and Nutrition Interventions and Approaches)
(This article belongs to the Section Physiology)

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