Can higher alpha-Klotho levels help lower the risk of frailty?
Alpha-Klotho is a protein that declines with age and is considered a biomarker of aging. Frailty is a state of increased vulnerability to stress due to declines in multiple body systems. Research suggests that higher levels of alpha-Klotho may protect against frailty, but the evidence comes mainly from observational studies, not clinical trials.
What the research says
A large systematic review and meta-analysis of 109 studies found that higher circulating alpha-Klotho levels were significantly associated with lower odds of frailty (odds ratio 0.61, 95% CI 0.49 to 0.76) 39. This means that for each unit increase in alpha-Klotho, the odds of being frail were about 39% lower. The same analysis also linked higher alpha-Klotho to better bone mineral density and other aging-related outcomes 39. However, these findings are based on observational studies, which cannot prove cause and effect. No studies have yet tested whether raising alpha-Klotho levels directly reduces frailty risk. Other factors that influence frailty, such as exercise, diet, and inflammation, may also affect alpha-Klotho levels 478.
What to ask your doctor
- Can you measure my alpha-Klotho level, and would that help assess my frailty risk?
- What lifestyle changes, like exercise or diet, might help maintain healthy alpha-Klotho levels?
- Are there any medications or supplements that could raise alpha-Klotho?
- How does my current frailty status compare to my alpha-Klotho level?
- Should I focus on other known frailty risk factors, such as inflammation or muscle strength, instead?
This question is drawn from common patient questions about this topic and answered using cited medical research. We do not provide individualized advice.