The purpose of a new study published in Maturitas was to summarize evidence of nutritional interventions for maintaining muscle mass and strength from midlife through old age. This narrative review entailed a search from PubMed and Cochrane databases to identify studies of dietary intake and nutritional interventions for sustaining muscle mass and strength. It was stated that benefits of progressive resistance training with and without dietary interventions are well documented. Protein and amino acid (particularly leucine) intake should be considered, and supplementation may be warranted for those not meeting recommended intakes. Vitamin D receptors are expressed in muscle tissue; meta-analyses have shown that vitamin D benefits muscle strength. Milk and other dairy products containing different bioactive compounds (i.e. protein, leucine) can enhance muscle protein synthesis, particularly when combined with resistance exercise. Omega-3s can improve muscle mass and strength by mediating cell signaling and inflammation-related oxidative damage; no studies were specifically conducted in sarcopenia. Although low-dose antioxidants (e.g. vitamins C and E) can protect muscle tissue from oxidative damage, relevant studies are limited. Magnesium is involved with muscle contraction processes and data have shown benefits to muscle strength. Acidogenic diets increase muscle protein breakdown, which is exacerbated by aging. Alkalizing compounds (e.g. bicarbonates) can promote muscle strength. Small studies on probiotics and plant extracts exhibit promising results, but only few large studies have been conducted. Based on available data, it was concluded that dietary and supplemental interventions may add to the benefits of exercise on muscle mass and strength. However, effects independent of exercise have not been consistently shown.

Source: Maturitas. 2020 Feb;132:57-64. doi: 10.1016/j.maturitas.2019.11.007