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Cross-sectional associations between dietary intake of polyunsaturated fatty acids, physical function, and sarcopenia in community-dwelling older adults

H. Coelho-Júnior, Alejandro Álvarez-Bustos, A. Picca, R. Calvani, L. Rodríguez-Mañas, F. Landi, E. Marzetti

The Journal of Nutrition, Health & Aging, 2024

2 citations

Abstract

Objectives The present study examined the associations between the dietary intake of polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs), physical function, and the prevalence of sarcopenia in Italian community-dwelling older adults. Design Cross-sectional study. Setting Unconventional settings across Italy (e.g., exhibitions, health promotion campaigns). Participants Older adults (65+ years) who provided a written informed consent. Methods Physical function was evaluated according to isometric handgrip strength (IHG) and 5-time sit-to-stand (5STS) performances. Muscle power parameters were estimated based on 5STS values. Sarcopenia was operationalized according to the presence of low physical function (IHG or 5STS) plus low appendicular skeletal muscle mass (ASM), estimated according to calf circumference. A 12-item food questionary was used to estimate the dietary intake of PUFAs, which included omega-3 (α-linolenic acid, eicosapentaenoic acid, docosahexaenoic acid) and omega-6 fatty acids. Results Multiple linear regression results indicate negative and significant associations between the dietary intake of α-linolenic acid and muscle power, and between docosahexaenoic acid consumption and ASM. No significant associations were found between PUFAs-related variables and sarcopenia. Conclusions Results of the present study indicate that PUFAs-related variables were negatively and significantly associated with physical function and body composition in older adults. Nevertheless, no…

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Evidence Hub reads this as a cross-sectional, done in people. Its evidence level is 4 of 5 (Low · observational). Observational designs can show an association but not prove cause.

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