Abstract
Background/Aims Protein intake is important for maintaining muscle mass in general population. However, it remains to be elucidated the association between dietary protein intake and skeletal muscle mass in elderly patients with type 2 diabetes. Methods In this cross-sectional study of 168 elderly patients with type 2 diabetes, we investigated the relationship between skeletal muscle index (SMI) and protein intake. Bioimpedance analysis was used for measurement for skeletal muscle mass (kg) and SMI (%), which was defined as skeletal muscle mass (kg)/total body weight (kg) × 100. Habitual food and nutrient intake were estimated by a questionnaire. Results Protein intake was independently correlated with SMI after adjusting for age, hemoglobin A1c, C-peptide index, exercise, smoking, insulin treatment, total energy intake, and C-reactive protein (standardized regression coefficient = 0.664, P < 0.001 in men and standardized regression coefficient = 0.516, P = 0.005 in women). Additionally, the animal protein to vegetable protein ratio was negatively correlated with SMI after adjusting for covariates in men (standardized regression coefficient = −0.339, P = 0.005). Conclusions We found that total protein intake, especially vegetable protein intake, was positively associated with skeletal muscle mass in elderly patients with type 2 diabetes.
Highlights
The number of elderly patients with diabetes is increasing, and they are often accompanied by sarcopenia, which is known as the age-associated change of skeletal muscle, such as a loss of muscle mass, power, and function [1, 2]
We showed that dietary total protein intake was positively associated with skeletal muscle index (SMI) in elderly patients with type 2 diabetes
The mechanism by which dietary protein affects the muscle is through the stimulation of muscle protein synthesis and/or suppression of protein breakdown by the absorbed amino acids consumed in the diet [24]
Summary
The number of elderly patients with diabetes is increasing, and they are often accompanied by sarcopenia, which is known as the age-associated change of skeletal muscle, such as a loss of muscle mass, power, and function [1, 2]. Recent studies revealed that sarcopenia is a risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality [3]. Prevention of sarcopenia is an important issue for elderly patients with diabetes. Sarcopenia is associated with an inadequate protein intake [4]: a low intake of dietary protein has been associated with a loss of muscle mass [5], and protein intake has been inversely associated with loss of muscle mass [6]. It has been recommended that 1.0-1.2 g/kg
Sign-in/Register to view highlights & summary Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Free) 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a call
