Reduced skeletal muscle mass and lifestyle

Skeletal muscle mass declines with age and the significant contribution of poor lifestyle behaviors may be the most modifiable causal factor. Observational studies in older adults demonstrate that maintaining greater physical activity, particularly at higher intensities, and intakes of dietary nutrients such as protein, omega-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids, and vitamin D may reduce age-related declines in muscle mass. Adequate dietary intake of key nutrients likely ensures exercise-induced muscle hypertrophy is maximized, and nutritional supplements may be beneficial for some older adults. Poor lifestyle behaviors such as smoking and excessive alcohol use may be detrimental for muscle mass, and given these are associated with poor socioeconomic status, interventions which reduce socioeconomic barriers to healthy lifestyle choices should be explored. Importantly, engaging in healthy behaviors from an early age will maximize peak muscle mass in young adulthood, and thereby minimize the risk of muscle insufficiency in older age.