Reply to the letter to the editor: Effects of adequate dietary protein with whey protein, leucine, and vitamin D supplementation on sarcopenia in older adults: An open-label, parallel-group study

Abstract

This is a response to the comment on our published article "Effects of adequate dietary protein with whey protein, leucine, and vitamin D supplementation on sarcopenia in older adults: An open-label, parallel-group study". Safer et al., questioned about the procedure and consistency of bioelectrical impedance analysis (BIA) measurement at the baseline and follow up visits. Also, they wondered whether the BIA device we used is validated in Taiwanese older adults with sarcopenia. We followed the standard protocols and the procedures were consistent at each measurement. Magnetic resonance image (MRI) and dual energy X ray absorptiometry (DXA) are gold standards for quantifying muscle mass. According to the clinical trials performed in Taiwan, the BIA device we used showed a significant correlation with MRI and DXA and is validated in older adults with sarcopenia in Taiwan. Trial registration: ClinicalTrials.gov NCT03860194.

Keywords: Bioelectrical impedance analysis; Muscle mass; Sarcopenia; Taiwan.