CORRELATION BETWEEN SARCOPENIA AND PROTEIN INTAKE IN THE ELDERLY IN OURO PRETO (MG)

Abstract

Insufficient protein intake is a risk factor for sarcopenia in the elderly, with a risk of adverse health outcomes. Adequate nutrition has been identified as a prevention and management strategy for this condition. The aim of the study was to analyze the correlation between diagnostic parameters of sarcopenia and protein consumption in the elderly in Ouro Preto, MG. A total of 151 elderly people (112 women and 39 men) were analyzed. Weight, height, body mass index (BMI) and muscle mass index (MMI) were measured. Physical performance was evaluated by gait speed (GS) in 4 meters and by the Chair Stand Up and Sit Test, and food consumption was obtained by 24-hour food recall. For statistical analysis, Pearson's correlation was used for normal data and Spearman's correlation for non-normal data. There was a negative correlation between protein consumption and BMI (r = -0,422; p < 0,001), percentage of total body fat (GCT) (r = -0,318; p < 0,001) and test performance getting up and sitting down from the chair (r = -0,179; p = 0,013); and positive correlation between protein consumption and MMI (r = 0,208; p = 0,005). No significant correlations were found between protein consumption and GS. It is concluded that adequate protein consumption can optimize muscle mass and physical performance, influencing functionality, health and well-being in the elderly. The source and distribution of proteins, as well as the association of physical exercises contributes to the observed effects.