The University of Valencia (UV) has studied the relationship between sarcopenia (a condition that causes the loss of muscle mass in older adults, and obesity that results from a diet that is deficient in protein for women over 65 years old. The study was published in Nutricion Hospitalaria and involved 164 Valencian women.
Sarcopenia can enhance the quality of life of those who are elderly by allowing autonomy and activities that they can engage in for longer durations of time.
Julio Fernandez Garrido Professor, UV Department of Nursing
The findings of the study revealed that of the women that participated, with a mean age of 72 yearsold, 26.2 percent had a diet less than the recommended amount by the WHO, 25.6% were in a certain stage of sarcopenia and 12 percent were affected by sarcopenic obesity. However, 73.8% of women were taking in more protein than recommended, which was due to an increased energy intake. Sarcopenia is also a cause of loss of strength and function of the muscles and can cause weakness, tiredness and issues with mobility and balance.
According to the team, this work shows the need to continue the research and “establish guidelines for protein intake that are in line with the needs of the elderly and establish effective public health policies that recognize the importance of this macronutrient in the aging process”.
The Valencia City Council and UV have signed the Chair of Healthy Active, Participative, and Healthy Aging. This has been an important part of the research. It established the basis for the study. These findings can also be used in the municipal senior centers where many of the activities of the Chair are carried out.
Methodology
Participants in the study were monitored on their diets for three days during which their nutrient intake was assessed. They also took part in several physical tests to measure the strength, balance, and speed, functions that are affected by sarcopenia. The results of women who were diagnosed with sarcopenia and with obesity were then crossed to establish the percentage of women who had sarcopenic weight gain.
Content Source: https://www.news-medical.net/news/20211204/Lack-of-protein-in-the-diet-of-women-over-65-linked-to-sarcopenia-and-sarcopenic-obesity.aspx
