Impact of nutrition on muscle mass, strength, and performance in older adults

Abstract

Muscle strength plays an important role in determining risk for falls, which result in fractures and other injuries. While bone loss has long been recognized as an inevitable consequence of aging, sarcopenia-the gradual loss of skeletal muscle mass and strength that occurs with advancing age-has recently received increased attention. A review of the literature was undertaken to identify nutritional factors that contribute to loss of muscle mass. The role of protein, acid-base balance, vitamin D/calcium, and other minor nutrients like B vitamins was reviewed. Muscle wasting is a multifactorial process involving intrinsic and extrinsic alterations. A loss of fast twitch fibers, glycation of proteins, and insulin resistance may play an important role in the loss of muscle strength and development of sarcopenia. Protein intake plays an integral part in muscle health and an intake of 1.0-1.2 g/kg of body weight per day is probably optimal for older adults. There is a moderate [corrected] relationship between vitamin D status and muscle strength. Chronic ingestion of acid-producing diets appears to have a negative impact on muscle performance, and decreases in vitamin B12 and folic acid intake may also impair muscle function through their action on homocysteine. An adequate nutritional intake and an optimal dietary acid-base balance are important elements of any strategy to preserve muscle mass and strength during aging.

Dietary pattern classifications with nutrient intake and body composition changes in Korean elderly

“…5. Vitamin C; 2,000 mg or over/day and diets rich in fruits and vegetables [23][24][25]. In this study, energy intake calculated by average weight was 25.55-31.27 kcal/kg body weight a day which was normal ranges and calcium intake and the serum level of vitamin D were deficient in all three pattern groups.…”

Factors Associated with Poor Muscle Mass and Strength in A Community-Dwelling Elderly Population: A Cross-Sectional Study

“…Although some studies suggest that the benefits of exercise training are enhanced when combined with dietary supplements and nutritional interventions in the older population, the existing evidence is inconsistent [19]. Adequate calorie, protein and vitamin intake is essential to preserve muscle mass and strength during the ageing process [20]. Approximately 1.5 g protein/kg of body weight/day is recommended for the older population, considering potential anabolic resistance; however, maximum protein intake without adverse effects is not known, so recommendations must be individualized [21].…”

From Epidemiology to Epigenetics: Evidence for the Importance of Nutrition to Optimal Health Development Across the Life Course

“…Vitamin D plays an important role in the development and maintenance of muscle mass, particularly in institutionalized elderly, and is recommended for optimal musculoskeletal health (Mithal et al 2012).…”