Sarcopenia and type 2 diabetes: Pathophysiology and potential therapeutic lifestyle interventions

Alexis Marcotte-Chénard; Barbara Oliveira; Jonathan P Little; Darren G Candow

doi:10.1016/j.dsx.2023.102835

Sarcopenia and type 2 diabetes: Pathophysiology and potential therapeutic lifestyle interventions

Diabetes Metab Syndr. 2023 Sep;17(9):102835. doi: 10.1016/j.dsx.2023.102835. Epub 2023 Aug 1.

Authors

Alexis Marcotte-Chénard¹, Barbara Oliveira², Jonathan P Little², Darren G Candow³

Affiliations

¹ Faculty of Physical Activity Sciences, University of Sherbrooke, Sherbrooke, QC, J1K 2R1, Canada.
² School of Health and Exercise Sciences, The University of British Columbia, Okanagan Campus, Kelowna, BC, V1V 1V7, Canada.
³ Faculty of Kinesiology & Health Studies, University of Regina, Saskatchewan, S4S 0A2, Canada. Electronic address: darren.candow@uregina.ca.

PMID: 37542749
DOI: 10.1016/j.dsx.2023.102835

Abstract

Aims: Sarcopenia generally refers to the age-related reduction in muscle strength, functional ability, and muscle mass. Sarcopenia is a multifactorial condition associated with poor glucose disposal, insulin resistance, and subsequently type 2 diabetes (T2D). The pathophysiological connection between sarcopenia and T2D is complex but likely involves glycemic control, inflammation, oxidative stress, and adiposity.

Methods and results: Resistance exercise and aerobic training are two lifestyle interventions that may improve glycemic control in older adults with T2D and counteract sarcopenia. Further, there is evidence that dietary protein, Omega-3 fatty acids, creatine monohydrate, and Vitamin D hold potential to augment some of these benefits from exercise.

Conclusions: The purpose of this narrative review is: (1) discuss the pathophysiological link between age-related sarcopenia and T2D, and (2) discuss lifestyle interventions involving physical activity and nutrition that may counteract sarcopenia and T2D.

Keywords: Diet; Exercise; Nutrition; Sarcopenia; T2D.