Emerging Nutritional Strategies to Combat Osteosarcopenia in Seniors

As the global elderly population continues to grow, the health issues associated with aging, particularly osteosarcopenia—the simultaneous occurrence of osteoporosis and sarcopenia—are becoming increasingly significant. In a recent review published in the journal *Nutrients* on July 21, 2025, a team of researchers led by Dr. Jorge E. Moreira-Velasco from the University of São Paulo examined the potential of various nutritional supplements, such as creatine, hydroxy-β-methylbutyrate (HMB), prebiotics, and probiotics, to mitigate muscle and bone degradation in older adults suffering from this condition.
Osteosarcopenia is characterized by weakened bone structure due to osteoporosis, coupled with muscle loss associated with sarcopenia. It poses a heightened risk of falls and fractures, significantly impacting the quality of life for aging individuals. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the global population aged 60 and above is projected to reach 2 billion by 2050, marking a substantial rise in the prevalence of osteosarcopenia and necessitating urgent attention and intervention strategies.
The review highlights creatine as the most promising supplement, showing considerable evidence supporting its efficacy in enhancing muscle mass and strength, especially when paired with resistance training. Dr. Sarah Johnson, a Professor of Kinesiology at the University of Michigan, asserts that "creatine supplementation can lead to improved muscle function, which is critical in reducing fall risk among older adults."
Creatine is naturally produced in the body but is also found in dietary sources such as fish and meat. However, older adults often consume insufficient amounts, making supplementation a viable option. Research indicates that creatine not only aids muscle health but may also positively influence bone density through enhanced osteoblast activity, although recent studies suggest that its effect on overall bone mineral density remains inconclusive.
In addition to creatine, HMB—a metabolite of the amino acid leucine—has gained traction for its potential benefits in muscle preservation. While studies indicate that HMB can improve muscle quality, particularly in frail older adults, its effects on overall muscle mass and function have shown mixed results. Dr. Michael Davis, a researcher at the National Institute on Aging, emphasizes that "while HMB may benefit muscle strength, the evidence remains inconsistent regarding its impact on muscle mass."
Probiotics and prebiotics have also emerged as potential players in addressing osteosarcopenia through their influence on gut health and the gut-muscle-bone axis. Aging alters gut microbiota, which can have downstream effects on muscle and bone health. Dr. Emily Chen, a microbiologist at Stanford University, notes that "the modulation of gut microbiota through prebiotics and probiotics could enhance nutrient absorption and reduce inflammation, potentially benefiting muscle and bone health."
The review underscores that while these supplements show promise, further rigorous clinical trials are necessary to establish their efficacy and optimal usage in older populations. Currently, the standard management of osteosarcopenia focuses on physical activity and conventional nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, and protein.
The implications of these findings are substantial. As the elderly population rises, the healthcare community must consider novel nutritional strategies that incorporate these emerging supplements to combat osteosarcopenia effectively. Continued research into the synergistic effects of these interventions will be crucial for developing comprehensive treatment plans tailored to individual needs.
In conclusion, while creatine, HMB, probiotics, and prebiotics present exciting avenues for improving muscle and bone health in older adults, their implementation in clinical practice should be accompanied by further studies to refine their roles and establish guidelines for effective use. As the landscape of nutritional research evolves, the integration of these supplements into elderly care may become a pivotal component in enhancing the quality of life for aging populations worldwide.
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