Muscle mass, sarcopenia, and mortality in aging populations: cohort review

Researchers reviewed cohort studies, which follow groups of people over time, involving older adults. They compared people with lower muscle mass and sarcopenia, meaning age-related loss of muscle strength or size, with people who had more muscle. Most studies found that lower muscle mass or sarcopenia was linked with a higher risk of dying during follow-up. The studies used different tests and definitions, and many could not fully separate muscle loss from illness, poor nutrition, or lack of activity.

What this means for you: This supports maintaining muscle through regular strength exercise, adequate food, and treatment of health problems. It does not show that buying a particular supplement or gaining muscle will by itself extend life.