High-Protein Diet and Sarcopenic Obesity Indices in Older Adults Undergoing Resistance Training: A Randomized Controlled Trial

Abstract

Background: Sarcopenic obesity, the coexistence of low muscle mass with excess adiposity, accelerates functional decline in aging
populations. Objective: To synthesise evidence on whether high-protein diets combined with resistance training improve
sarcopenic obesity indices in older adults. Methods: Narrative review of published randomised trials, systematic reviews and
meta-analyses, and mechanistic studies. Findings: Combined interventions consistently preserve appendicular lean mass, improve
strength and gait speed, and enhance fat loss more than either strategy alone, although heterogeneity in protein dose and training
protocols persists. Conclusions: Dietary protein intakes above 1.0-1.2 g/kg/day distributed across meals, paired with progressive
resistance training, represent a pragmatic strategy for managing sarcopenic obesity.