Nutritional interventions to preserve skeletal muscle mass

Abstract

Muscle mass is the main predictor for muscle strength and physical function. The amount of muscle mass can decline rapidly during periods of reduced physical activity or during periods of energy intake restriction. For athletes, it is important to maintain muscle mass, since the loss of muscle is associated with decreased muscle strength, decreased physical performance and a longer recovery period.

In the older and more clinically compromised populations, the consequences of muscle loss can substantially impact metabolic health, physical functioning, quality of life and mortality rates. In this thesis, the effects of different nutritional interventions on the preservation of muscle mass are being evaluated.

Defence date: 06/12/16