Objective:

To know the results of the latest researches on sarcopenia in the elderly and the use of protein supplements for their treatment and / or prevention.

Methodology:

Systematic review on the use of protein supplements in the treatment and prevention of sarcopenia. The search was carried out in MEDLINE, Science Direct, SciELO, TRIP database and Dialnet. It was limited to the period 2011/2016. Randomized clinical trials were included and PEDro scale was used to assess the methodological quality of them, including those with a score of 6 or higher.

Results:

The way to provide the proteins in the 13 articles reviewed is very variable. These can be given daily, times, after physical exercise, usually resistance, with a frequency of 3-5 sessions / week. Proteins are usually provided in the form of red meat, cheese, buttermilk or pure, in amounts ranging from 20-45 g / day. Essential amino acids are around 9 g / day and leucine ranges from 4-9 g / day. Supplementation with β-hydroxy-β-methylbutyrate is between 1.5-3.0 g / day. These contributions generally resulted in an increase in muscle mass and strength, as well as an increase in the synthesis of musculoskeletal proteins and muscle fiber size in the elderly.

Conclusions:

In the therapeutic approach of sarcopenia syndrome, it is essential the incorporation of proteins of high biological value into the diet, which, together with resistance exercise, are going to produce a synergistic effect on muscle tissue.

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