Effects of marine oligomeric polyphenols on body composition and physical ability of elderly individuals with sarcopenia: a pilot study

[Purpose] We aimed to identify the effects of marine oligomeric polyphenol (MOP) intake in elderly individuals with sarcopenia.[Methods] Older adults (aged 65 years or older) were recruited based on the diagnostic criterion for sarcopenia and were randomly assigned to the MOP intake group (n=10) or the placebo (PBO) intake group (n=10). To determine the effect of MOP intake received for four weeks, the pre- and post-intake body composition (weight, skeletal muscle mass, and bone density) and senior fitness tests were assessed.[Results] Our results showed there were significant differences in the skeletal muscle mass (p =0.039), bone density (p =0.020), fat-free mass index (p =0.026), and 2.4 m up and go test (p =0.001) between pretest and post-test. There was a significant difference between the pre-test and post-test and an interaction effect for the one-leg stand test (p =0.010 and p =0.049, respectively). However, there were no significant differences in body fat percentage, calf circumference, grip strength, or the chair rise test.[Conclusion] Some variables exhibited significant differences in the pre- and post-assessments, and there was an interaction effect for the one-leg stand. However, this was insufficient to prove the effectiveness of MOP intake in improving sarcopenia. Therefore, additional studies are essential to examine the effects of MOP intake and exercise intervention on the body composition and fitness of patients over a longer period.