Narrative review links protein quality and exercise to sarcopenia management in older adults

This narrative review synthesizes evidence regarding protein intake, protein quality, amino acid composition, and dietary supplements for sarcopenia and functional decline in older adults. The scope includes physical activity and resistance training as integral components of the intervention strategy. The authors do not report a specific sample size or follow-up duration for the underlying studies summarized. Instead, they focus on qualitative conclusions derived from the available literature.

The review highlights that balanced nutrition, especially adequate protein intake, is essential for preventing and managing sarcopenia. Higher doses of protein, appropriately distributed throughout the day, optimally stimulate muscle protein synthesis. The essential amino acid profile, particularly leucine, plays a key role in activating anabolic pathways and improves the muscular anabolic response. Animal proteins offer greater bioavailability and a more complete amino acid profile compared to other sources.

Strategic combinations of plant proteins can also be effective in meeting amino acid requirements. Other dietary supplements, including creatine, vitamin D, collagen, and omega-3 fatty acids, may further complement nutritional interventions to improve muscle mass and function. The authors note that this is a narrative review and does not establish causation but summarizes evidence on associations between protein quality and sarcopenia prevention. No specific adverse events or serious safety issues were reported in the synthesis.

The practice relevance is that nutritional approaches, along with physical activity and resistance training, form a comprehensive strategy for maintaining muscle function and overall wellbeing in older adults. Clinicians should consider these factors when advising on sarcopenia management without inferring specific quantitative effect sizes from this narrative source.