Preventing and Managing Sarcopenia in Older Adults through Physical Activity, Exercise and Nutrition Interventions and Approaches

Dear Colleagues,

We are delighted to invite you to contribute to this interdisciplinary multidisciplinary topic area in collaboration with Biology, International Journal of Molecular Sciences, Nutrients, Journal of Clinical Medicine, Life, Healthcare and Geriatrics. The focus of this topic area is sarcopenia, a highly prevalent muscle-wasting disorder, especially in older adults who tend to suffer from poor nutrition and have reduced physical activity levels. The synergistic effect of exercise and dietary protein is paramount, but not exclusive, for the successful management of sarcopenia through optimization of muscle protein synthesis (MPS) rates. International expert groups such as the European Society for Clinical Nutrition and Metabolism have long called for higher protein intakes in relation to the current recommended daily allowance (RDA), specifically for older adults with acute or chronic disease and those experiencing severe illness or injury. Alongside the importance of consuming sufficient dietary protein, effective sarcopenia management also depends on the quantity and quality of protein consumed on a “per meal” basis. Nevertheless, achieving a daily protein intake that exceeds the RDA presents a profound challenge for older adults, partly due to age-related anorexia. Other nutritional strategies or supplementation with certain nutrients (e.g., creatine, omega-3 fatty acids) may directly or indirectly influence MPS. Since exercise enhances the anabolic potential of nutrients, it is imperative that exercise interventions complement nutritional interventions where appropriate to optimize MPS.

The purpose of this investigation is to provide an overview of the most recent advances involving physical activity, exercise and nutrition for the optimal management and prevention of acute or chronic sarcopenia in older adults. We welcome original research articles and reviews from basic, clinical and translational research focusing on muscle quality and function, anabolic resistance, cognitive function, health-related quality of life and gut health.

We look forward to receiving your contributions.

Dr. Theocharis Ispoglou
Dr. Matthew Lees
Prof. Dr. James McKenna
Topic Editors