Sarcopenia and Diabetes Mellitus

The relationship between DM and sarcopenia has not been extensively investigated. Skeletal muscle is the primary site of glucose deposition, and decreased muscle mass plays a role in impaired glucose metabolism in patients with insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes. Skeletal muscle resistance to insulin action appears to be the link between type 2 diabetes (T2DM) and sarcopenia. Hyperglycemia is a metabolic dysfunction which can potentially damage muscle cells. Insulin deficiency leads to marked muscle catabolism that can be reversed by exogenous insulin administration.

The metabolic disorder in diabetics may be reversible.Thus, it may be possible to restore physical ability by restoring the musculoskeletal system.Therefore, the diagnosis of sarcopenia if made can lead to interventions which may prevent the deterioration of body composition and the subsequent deterioration of quality of life. According to the results of the aforementioned studies it is still inconclusive if the metabolic disorder in diabetes may be related to sarcopenia, or sarcopenia may be a consequence of diabetes.

Inclusion criteria

• T2DM participants were on treatment with oral hypoglycemic agents
• confirmation criteria of a T2DM diagnosis were glycosylated hemoglobin A1c levels ≥ 6.5% and fasting plasma glucose ≥ 126 mg/dl (7 mmol/l).

Exclusion criteria

• history of a cerebrovascular event, a heart stent, an artificial cardiac pacemaker or other metallic implant,
• a malignant tumor, liver disease, end stage chronic kidney disease, a thyroid disorder, carpal tunnel syndrome,
• subjects who received special dietary supplements such as protein powder, during the last three months were excluded from the study.