Prospects for protein-energy formulas in patients with osteoporosis

Abstract

Osteoporosis is a multifactorial metabolic bone disease characterized by reduced bone mineral density and compromised bone microarchitecture, leading to skeletal fractures from minimal external trauma. Osteoporosis is frequently accompanied by sarcopenia, reflecting the ongoing interaction between muscle and bone tissues from embryogenesis through advanced age, manifested at biochemical, endocrine, and mechanical levels, which may exacerbate both conditions.

One significant risk factor for patients with osteosarcopenia is malnutrition, associated with increased mortality, disability, cognitive decline, and a higher incidence of falls and fractures. Nutritional support and physical activity represent promising approaches for managing these patients. Timely administration of supplemental protein-energy formulas may offer additional benefits for patients with osteosarcopenia; however, currently, no standardized nutritional support strategy exists due to population heterogeneity among patients with osteoporosis and a lack of conclusive data on the benefits of such interventions without diagnosed sarcopenia.

This review summarizes contemporary data on nutrition in osteoporosis, evaluates existing nutritional support strategies, and assesses their potential efficacy. Special attention is given to the role of proteins, vitamins, and micronutrients in the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis, with recommended daily doses of these nutrients presented. The information provided herein may serve as a foundation for future research and the development of optimal nutritional support strategies for this population.

Keywords

osteoporosis / sarcopenia / osteosarcopenia / protein-energy formulas / enteral nutrition / bone density / calcium / vitamin D

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