Effect of Schisandra Chinensis Extract on Musculoskeletal Biomakers in Relatively Sarcopenic Adults: a RCT

Previous studies have indicated that Schisandra chinensis extract (SCE) may have the ability to prevent skeletal muscle atrophy. Therefore, the investigators conduct a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled study to investigate the effects of the SCE on muscle strength, muscle mass, and muscle function in healthy adults; the safety of the compound are also evaluate. The Investigators examine the peak torque/body weight at 60°/s knee extension, handgrip strength, skeletal muscle mass, physical performance, and metabolic parameters at baseline, as well as after 4 and 12 weeks of intervention. Fifty-four healthy adults were administered either 1,000 mg of SCE or a placebo each day for 12 weeks;

Inclusion criteria

• <110% of the standard lean body mass as measured using the body composition analyzer InBody 720)
• Body-mass index (BMI) ranging from 18.5 to 30.0 kg/m2

Exclusion criteria

• Abnormal liver or renal function (i.e., serum aminotransferase activity > 60 IU/L and serum creatinine concentrations > 1.2 mg/dL)
• Diabetes (diagnosed clinically or fasting glucose level > 126 mg/dL)
• History of fracture during the previous year
• Uncontrolled hypertension
• History of serious cardiac disease such as angina or myocardial infarction
• History of gastrectomy
• History of medication for psychiatric disease
• Administration of oriental medicine including herbs within the past 4 weeks
• Evidence of relatively high skeletal mass (more than 110% of the standard lean body mass as measured using the body composition analyzer InBody 720)