Nutrition and exercise for sarcopenia treatment

Sarcopenia, the age-related loss of muscle mass, strength, and performance, is a significant concern in the aging population. Despite extensive research, no consensus exists on its prevention and treatment. Sarcopenia increases the risk of functional disability, falls, hospitalization, long-term care, morbidity, and mortality among older adults. Currently, no approved pharmacological treatments for sarcopenia exist, making exercise and nutrition the most effective interventions. Evidence indicates that targeted exercise reduces risk factors, preventing or treating sarcopenia in older adults. Progressive, moderate-intensity exercise, alone or combined with nutritional supplementation, is recommended to mitigate muscle deterioration associated with aging. While non-pharmacological interventions are the primary approach, conflicting evidence exists regarding the most effective exercise and nutrition strategies. This review highlights that single intervention, such as exercise or nutritional supplementation alone, provide limited benefits for preventing or treating sarcopenia. In contrast, combined interventions, comprehensive exercise training and nutritional supplementation, effectively improve clinical indicators, including muscle mass, strength, and gait speed, in older adults with sarcopenia.