Sarcopenia: molecular mechanism and current nutritional approach

Abstract

Sarcopenia is characterized by a gradual slowing of movement due to loss of muscle mass and quality, loss of power and strength, increased risk of injury from falls, and often frailty. In this article, we focus on recent advances in nutritional approaches to control sarcopenia. Because nutritional studies in humans are rather limited, this article includes many results from nutritional studies in mammals. The combination of supplements containing amino acids and resistance training is the gold standard for preventing sarcopenia. Protein (amino acid) supplements alone do not have a significant effect on muscle strength or muscle mass in sarcopenia. Tea catechins, soy isoflavones, and ursolic acid are interesting candidates to combat sarcopenia, but both more systematic basic research on this treatment and, of course, clinical studies in humans are needed. Mild caloric restriction (CR, 15–25%) may also be effective against age-related muscle atrophy in humans.