Non-pharmacological treatment strategies for anthropometric, physical capacity and physiological indicators among sarcopenic obesity patients: a systematic review of rigorous randomized controlled trials.

This article systematically reviews randomized controlled trials (RCTs) to evaluate the effects of non-pharmacological interventions on sarcopenic obesity (SO), a condition characterized by the coexistence of sarcopenia and obesity, primarily affecting older adults. The meta-analysis of 21 RCTs found that exercise interventions significantly reduced percentage body fat (PBF) and improved physical capacity measures such as grip strength and gait speed, while nutritional interventions mainly enhanced grip strength but had limited effects on body composition. Combined exercise and nutritional interventions yielded more comprehensive benefits, including improvements in muscle mass and obesity indicators, suggesting this approach as optimal for managing SO. The review also notes limited evidence on physiological outcomes and highlights the need for higher-quality studies to determine the most effective exercise modalities and nutritional strategies.