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Fitness

Research

Topic 3

Sports and Exercise Medicine Lab.

Research Topics

Development of Exercise Program to Prevent and Treatment for Sarcopenia and Obesity

  • Sarcopenic obesity is a complex health condition characterized by the concurrent presence of both sarcopenia, which is the age-related loss of muscle mass and function, and obesity, which is the condition of excess body fat accumulation. It is a unique and multifactorial condition that represents a combination of muscle wasting and adiposity, and it has been recognized as a significant health concern, particularly among older adults.

The definition and mechanisms of sarcopenic obesity

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Proceedings of the Nutrition Society (2015), 74, 405–412

  • The mechanisms of sarcopenic obesity are complex and multifactorial, involving a combination of biological, physiological, and behavioral factors. One of the primary mechanisms is an imbalance between muscle protein synthesis and breakdown, leading to a progressive loss of muscle mass and function with age. This can result from multiple factors, such as reduced physical activity, inadequate dietary protein intake, hormonal changes, chronic inflammation, and oxidative stress.
  • Obesity, on the other hand, can further exacerbate sarcopenia through various mechanisms. Increased adiposity, particularly visceral fat, has been shown to promote systemic inflammation, insulin resistance, and altered lipid metabolism, which can negatively impact muscle health and function. Adipose tissue-derived hormones, such as leptin and adiponectin, can also play a role in the regulation of muscle metabolism and may be dysregulated in sarcopenic obesity.
  • Moreover, other factors, such as sedentary behavior, poor nutrition, hormonal changes associated with aging, and genetic predisposition, may also contribute to the development of sarcopenic obesity. Additionally, psychosocial and environmental factors, such as low socioeconomic status, psychological stress, and access to healthy food and opportunities for physical activity, may further influence the development and progression of sarcopenic obesity.
  • Understanding the definition and mechanisms of sarcopenic obesity from an academic perspective involves a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach that encompasses knowledge from fields such as physiology, nutrition, gerontology, endocrinology, and behavioral sciences. Further research is needed to elucidate the complex interactions between muscle loss, adiposity, and other contributing factors, and to develop effective strategies for prevention and treatment of sarcopenic obesity.

Effect of sarcopnic obesity on the multimorbidity 

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JAMDA 17 (2016) 960.e1e960.e7

  • According to our study, there is evidence to suggest that objectively measured sarcopenia and abdominal obesity are independently associated with an increased risk of multimorbidity, even after adjusting for potential confounding factors. Furthermore, our findings indicate that sarcopenic obesity may pose a greater risk of multimorbidity compared to sarcopenia or obesity alone. However, to establish a causal relationship, further longitudinal studies are warranted.

The associations of the muscular strength and weakness group with the medical utilization and the risk of premature mortality

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Asian J Kinesiol 2021; 23(3): 38-45

  • Muscle weakness may contribute to the morbidity and increase the healthcare burden associated with chronic diseases.
  • According to our recent study, dynapenia, evaluated by grip strength, was significantly associated with a higher risk of hospitalization and an increase in utilization for healthcare.
  • Therefore, preventing sarcopenia may serve as a crucial public health strategy to promote well-being, prevent disease, and decrease healthcare burden.
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International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health 2022, 19:39.

  • Numerous epidemiological studies have reported an association between sarcopenia and increased morbidity and mortality from cardiovascular disease.
  • Our study is the first to demonstrate that sarcopenia is a robust predictor of premature mortality.
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