An Integrated Nutritional and Physical Activity Approach for Osteosarcopenia

Osteoporosis is a skeletal disorder characterized by decreased bone strength, which leads to an increased risk of developing fractures. Interestingly, this metabolic disorder is often related to sarcopenia, defined as decreased muscle mass, strength, and function. These two conditions appear to be closely connected, leading to a clinical condition named osteosarcopenia (OS). Aging may explain the link between muscle and bone loss through genetic, mechanical, endocrine, and nutritional factors. Further, aging increases the amount of adipose tissue, often due to sedentary behavior and unbalanced nutritional pattern, leading to a clinical condition defined as osteosarcopenic obesity, characterized by concurrent obesity, sarcopenia, and osteoporosis, where each condition exacerbates the others. Moreover, sarcopenia leads to decreased physical (PA) activity, worsening skeletal homeostasis, and creating a vicious cycle, which increases falls, fracture risk, and disability. This review underscores the importance of a systemic approach, focusing on nutritional therapy integrated with PA and, eventually, pharmacological interventions to efficiently manage (OS).