Exercise and Nutrition Interventions in Age-related Sarcopenia

The Multidimensional Effects of Exercise and Nutritional Interventions on Musculoskeletal Functioning, Nutritional Status and Quality of Life in Age-related Sarcopenia

This project will investigate the synergistic effects of Aerobic and Resistance type Exercise, in combination with Protein Supplementation, on; Body Composition, Musculoskeletal Functioning, Nutritional Status and Quality of Life in Age-related Sarcopenia.

Musculoskeletal ageing is an inevitable process associated with profound morphological and functional changes that will ultimately transition an individual from independent, to dependable living, relying heavily on personal health care for survival. The United Kingdom (UK) population aged over 65 years is expected to rise from 8.8 to 11.3 million by 2025. As life expectancy increases due to advances in medical treatment, an age-related disease termed sarcopenia, has become more prevalent in the elderly. Sarcopenia, described as the loss of musculoskeletal mass, strength and/or physical functioning with age, manifests after the 6th decade and rapidly increases after the 8th decade, resulting in a deterioration of health status and quality of life. To manage the looming health and economic consequences of sarcopenia, suitable therapeutic strategies to manage the condition are warranted. Therefore, this randomised control trial (RCT) will investigate the effects of 16-weeks of exercise and nutritional interventions in inactive senior citizens (60 - 90 years old).

Inclusion Criteria:

• Male and Female participants
• 60 - 90 years of age
• Resident in North West, England, UK
• BMI 18.5-30 kg/m
• Can speak and understand English
• Willing to consent and follow the study procedures

Exclusion Criteria:

• Recent (i.e. past 3 months) or concurrent participation in any clinical trial or dietary and/or exercise intervention program
• Self-reported lactose intolerance
• Uncontrolled diabetes (HbA1C >10)
• Uncontrolled Hypertension (160/100) and uncontrolled hypotension (<100 systolic)
• Treatment with Beta Blockers, Calcium Channel Blockers, Digitalis, Bronchodilator,
• Diuretics, Vasodilators
• Current hormone therapy such as insulin, testosterone or hormone replacement therapy
• History of falls/osteoporosis
• Major psychological/mental illness
• Medical conditions that precluded safe participation in an exercise program
• Other major systemic diseases: Liver and kidney diseases, Advanced gastrointestinal disorders, Cardiovascular Diseases, Advanced chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, Advanced Rheumatoid Arthritis, Cancer