Protein and Multivitamin Supplementation in Managing Sarcopenia/Sarcopenic Obesity in the Elderly: A Narrative Review of Literature

Abstract

Sarcopenia may be described as a muscular disease associated with unfavourable outcomes. Sarcopenic obesity refers to the concomitant presence of sarcopenia and obesity. The best approach to these pathologies is still not determined. Our goal was to review the current knowledge regarding nutrition as a therapeutic option in the treatment of these conditions. From a total of 1024 articles obtained from medical databases, nine were included in the narrative review. Supplementation of vitamin D alone was not associated with significant differences. Protein supplements, especially those rich in leucine, have been commonly used in the included studies, with potential benefit in some muscle parameters such as muscle mass. Benefits of supplementation in sarcopenic obesity are less clear. There was significant heterogeneity between the included studies in many parameters. Therefore, clear and valid conclusions are still not possible, however leucine enriched protein supplements might be an interesting option. Further research is needed.