Exercise and Protein Supplementation Recommendations for Older Adults With Sarcopenic Obesity: A Meta-Review

Area of Science:

• Gerontology
• Exercise Physiology
• Nutritional Science

Background:

• Sarcopenic obesity is a growing concern in older adults, characterized by loss of muscle mass and increased fat mass.
• This condition negatively impacts muscle strength, physical function, and overall health in the aging population.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically evaluate the effects of exercise interventions, with or without protein supplementation, on muscle strength and function in older adults (≥65 years) diagnosed with sarcopenic obesity.

Main Methods:

• A comprehensive meta-review of systematic reviews and meta-analyses was conducted.
• Searches included major databases (PubMed, Cochrane, CINAHL, Scopus, SPORTDiscus) up to February 2021.
• Interventions focused on aerobic, resistance, or combined training, with or without protein supplementation.

Main Results:

• Exercise interventions, both with and without protein supplementation, demonstrated improvements in body composition, notably a decrease in body fat percentage.
• Significant enhancements were observed in functional outcomes, including improved gait speed and grip strength.
• The existing literature is limited, indicating a need for more extensive research in this specific demographic.

Conclusions:

• Exercise, with or without protein supplementation, positively impacts body composition and functional capacity in older adults with sarcopenic obesity.
• While current evidence is preliminary, protein recommendations should follow established sarcopenia guidelines.
• Tentative exercise recommendations are proposed to optimize health outcomes for this population, pending further investigation.