Work

Protein-rich food intake frequency score and muscle mass, strength, muscle-specific strength or physical performance in Japanese older women: a cross-sectional study

Year: 2026

Type: article

Abstract: BACKGROUND: Sarcopenia, defined as age-related muscle loss, has significant implications on the physical performance and health of older adults. An adequate dietary protein intake plays a crucial role in maintaining muscle mass and function. In Japan, the "Take 10!" assessment method, focusing on 10 food groups with an emphasis on 5 protein-rich foods, has been used for older adults. This study aimed to explore the relationship between the protein-rich food intake frequency score (PFFS) and muscle mass, strength, muscle-specific strength, and physical performance in older Japanese women. METHODS: This study included 309 Japanese women aged 65-92 years. The appendicular skeletal muscle mass and skeletal muscle index were assessed. Hand grip strength and knee extension strength were measured, and muscle-specific strength was calculated. Chair stand test, shuttle stamina walk test, 10-m walk test, and timed up-and-go test were conducted. The Take 10 food frequency score (Take10-FFS) and PFFS were obtained. A one-way analysis of covariance was conducted, adjusted for age, percent body fat, exercise habits, smoking habits, alcohol habits, preexisting conditions, polypharmacy, fall incidence within 1 year, subjective economic status, and years of education. RESULTS AND CONCLUSION: Higher Take 10-FFS and PFFS were associated with better muscle mass, strength, and physical performance (P < 0.05), emphasizing the importance of protein intake in preventing sarcopenia. However, no direct association was found between PFFS and muscle-specific strength (P > 0.05). This underscores the complexity of the factors influencing muscle-specific strength.

Source: BMC Geriatrics

DOI: 10.1186/s12877-025-06932-3