Neuromuscular and Multi-Omics Synergy of Combined Creatine × HMB Supplementation Plus Exercise to Improve Muscle Function in Sarcopenic Frailty

Plain-language summary

Sarcopenia and physical frailty are highly prevalent among institutionalized older adults and are major contributors to functional decline, reduced mobility, and loss of independence. Combined exercise and targeted nutritional strategies have emerged as promising approaches to mitigate these age-related impairments. This randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled, parallel-group clinical trial aims to evaluate the independent and combined effects of creatine monohydrate (CRE) and β-hydroxy-β-methylbutyrate (HMB), administered alongside a supervised multicomponent exercise program, on physical function, body composition, cognitive performance, and quality of life in institutionalized older adults with physical frailty and sarcopenia. A total of 50 adults aged ≥65 years were enrolled and randomized to one of four intervention groups for 12 weeks: placebo plus exercise, creatine plus exercise, HMB plus exercise, or creatine plus HMB plus exercise. A supplement-free follow-up period will be conducted to evaluate the sustainability of intervention effects. In addition to clinical and functional outcomes, the study incorporates molecular and biological assessments to explore mechanistic pathways underlying functional adaptation and interindividual variability in response to the interventions.

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