Malnutrition and Sarcopenia

Malnutrition caused by aging or disease can be defined as a state resulting from the lack of intake or uptake of nutrition, which leads to a change in body composition and the consequent impairment of physical and mental functions. Sarcopenia is a geriatric syndrome characterized by a progressive loss of skeletal muscle mass, strength, and performance. In this chapter, we (a) summarize the relationship between malnutrition and sarcopenia in various subjects, (b) review nutritional epidemiological evidence related to the prevention of sarcopenia, and (c) show evidence for the efficacy of nutrient supplementation in attenuating muscle atrophy in several patients. Malnutrition is closely related to severe sarcopenia, especially in older hospitalized adults, patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD), those undergoing hemodialysis, and those with cancer. Healthy diets (i.e., those ensuring a sufficient intake of beneficial foods, such as vegetables, fish, nuts, fruits, low-fat foods, and whole-grain products) are useful in preventing sarcopenia. The Mediterranean diet is a particularly healthy diet, but other diets, such as the healthy Nordic diet and traditional Asian diet, also help attenuate sarcopenia in older adults. Proteins, vitamins, minerals, and n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids are important nutrients for patients with CKD, those on hemodialysis, and those with cancer