Protein Supplementation for the Prevention and Management of Sarcopenia in the Elderly

Abstract

Correspondence author: Jie Liu, Dietician, MPH, Department of Clinical Nutrition, Daping Hospital, Army Medical University, Changjiangzhilu 10, Yuzhong District, Chongqing 400042, China: Tel: +86 23 6875 7668; Email: dbdnajie@qq.com Introduction Skeletal muscle loss, sarcopenia, occurs in patients with a variety of physiological and pathological conditions, such as chronic heart failure (CHF), chronic kidney disease (CKD), chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS), malignancy and so on, as well as during the natural aging process [1,2]. Sarcopenia mainly manifests as a reduced skeletal muscle mass, decreased muscle strength, and decreased quality of life [3]. Research has shown that the muscle mass, strength and physical function of the elderly are closely related to nutrition, which means that nutrition plays an important role in the prevention and treatment of sarcopenia. However, it has been estimated that 15% to 38% of older men and 27% to 41% of older women do not reach the recommended protein intake [4]. Taking in sufficient energy and protein, combined with active exercise, are effective methods for preventing and managing muscle loss [5,6]. The main purpose of the present article is to discuss the key role of protein supplementation for the prevention and management of sarcopenia, especially in the elderly.