Low muscle mass may increase death risk among people with diabetes

researchers found that individuals with diabetes and low muscle mass have a higher risk for cardiovascular disease mortality and all-cause mortality.

This association between low muscle mass and mortality appeared to be independent of factors like frailty, poor control of blood sugar, and microvascular complications.

For this study, researchers wanted to understand the risks for people with diabetes and sarcopenia.

Sarcopenia has to do with low muscle mass and low strength. People with sarcopenia may have a more challenging time completing activities of daily living. They may have a higher risk of falling.

People with obesity, people who have insulin resistance, or diabetes may be at a higher risk for developing sarcopenia.

Effrain Cerrato, lead exercise physiologist with the Susan Samueli Integrative Health Institute from the University of California, Irvine, who was not involved in the study, explained “Sarcopenia is intertwined with reduced bone density leading to osteoporosis and increasing the risk of fractures caused by falls and accidents, a particular concern to our aging population. Beyond physical health, low muscle mass diminishes overall quality of life, limiting mobility and independence, potentially leading to mental health challenges like depression and social isolation.”

“Low muscle mass has consequence beyond strength, especially for individuals living with diabetes. Low muscle mass affects the body’s ability to regulate insulin sensitivity which can contribute to obesity and cardiovascular disease.”

The study found low muscle mass was associated with an increased risk for all-cause and cardiovascular-related mortality. They further concluded that this risk is directly related to the effects of sarcopenia instead of indirectly through poor blood sugar control, complications of small blood vessels, or frailty.

Dr. Faye Riley, research communications manager at Diabetes UK, who was also not involved in the study, said:

“Losing muscle is a natural part of aging and has established links to poorer health. This research tells us more about the effects of reduced muscle mass in older people living with diabetes and how it can directly influence health and life expectancy.”

Dr. Robert Gabbay, chief scientific and medical officer at the American Diabetes Association, who was not involved in the study, says “we know that muscle mass declines with age, and there does seem to be some association with cardiovascular disease as well. The link within diabetes is less clear.”

Regardless, the data indicates the importance of addressing sarcopenia, particularly among people with diabetes.

“There are actions you can take to prevent or slow down muscle loss, and this study serves as a reminder of the benefits of building strength, or resistance, training into your activity routine.

By increasing muscle mass, this type of exercise can boost how the body uses insulin and help people with diabetes to manage blood sugar levels, and stay healthy,” Dr. Faye Riley said.

Ways to help strengthen muscles could include carrying heavy shopping bags, doing yoga, or gardening. – Source: MedicalNewsToday

Did you know?

Prediabetes

Many people who are diagnosed with prediabetes may have had it for months, possibly even years as it often is asymptomatic.

The problem with belly fat

Excess belly fat is a major health concern because it links to a higher risk of various chronic diseases, including:

• type 2 diabetes

• heart disease

• high blood pressure

• high cholesterol

• dementia

• certain types of cancer

• stroke

• decreased quality of life