Food insecurity as a risk factor of sarcopenic obesity in older adults

Abstract

Sarcopenic obesity is characterized by the loss of muscle strength, mass and muscle functionality and increased adipose tissue (obesity) according to different criteria and cut-off points. The prevalence of sarcopenic obesity among older adults is growing worldwide, and many factors are involved in its development. Diet and food security have been described as the main contributors to the development of obesity and sarcopenia. Food insecurity consists of limited or uncertain access to adequate and nutritious foods. This narrative review aims to summarize the existing data on food insecurity as a risk factor for sarcopenic obesity in the elderly.

Sex-Specific Effects of Dietary Factors on Sarcopenic Obesity in Korean Elderly: A Nationwide Cross-Sectional Study

“…However, such differences were not observed in men, indicating that elderly women with sarcopenic obesity exhibited the worst dietary characteristics, making them particularly vulnerable to healthy diets. Food insecurity increases the likelihood of obesity and sarcopenia in the elderly [ 4 ]. Therefore, improving food insecurity could be a strategy for reducing the risk of sarcopenic obesity.…”

“…Therefore, improving food insecurity could be a strategy for reducing the risk of sarcopenic obesity. Additionally, the impact of food insecurity on obesity status differs by sex, as there was no association between food insecurity and obesity in elderly men [ 4 ]. Consequently, food insecurity is thought to have a more detrimental effect on women than on men among the elderly.…”

“…Excessive fat mass associated with aging can induce sarcopenia. Obesity promotes muscle breakdown through insulin resistance, leading to a decline in both muscle mass and strength, consequently causing sarcopenia [ 4 ]. Conversely, a reduction in muscle mass and strength in sarcopenia leads to decreased energy expenditure, contributing to increased body fat and obesity induction [ 5 ].…”

“…Sarcopenic obesity, compared to individuals with only muscle loss or obesity alone, is associated with a higher risk of mental disorders, an increased risk of hospitalization, elevated mortality rates, and a greater incidence of complications in various cancers [ 1 ]. Additionally, sarcopenic obesity has been found to increase the risk of metabolic diseases such as metabolic syndrome [ 10 , 11 ], cardiovascular disease [ 12 ], and diabetes [ 4 ], compared to either sarcopenia or obesity alone. Therefore, these findings underscore the importance of identifying and preventing the risk factors associated with sarcopenic obesity as a crucial strategy for promoting healthy aging.…”

Publication trends in nutrition research for sarcopenic obesity: A 20-year bibliometric analysis

“…It is reported that food insecurity and malnutrition are significantly related to obesity and sarcopenia. [ 15 , 16 ] Especially in low- and middle-income countries, the incidence rate of the 2 syndromes is rising sharply among older people. [ 17 , 18 ] Adequate nutrition can effectively reduce muscle loss and improve the quality of life of older adults.…”