Samenvatting

The Dutch population is aging. Aging is associated with low muscle mass, strength and function, also known as sarcopenia. Sarcopenia leads to several problems as falling more often, physical frailty, disability and a higher risk of mortality. Additionally, absorption of many nutrients decreases with aging and sarcopenia. Some studies show that several minerals such as calcium, magnesium and selenium have a role in muscle metabolism and muscle function. Therefore, the aim of this study is to examine the association between calcium, magnesium, selenium, muscle mass, muscle strength and physical performance in older adults. Method: The participants in this cross sectional study were older adults aged 55 years. The calcium, magnesium and selenium intake were measured using a 3-day food record. The Dual Energy X-ray Absorptiometry was used to measure the appendicular lean mass. The muscle strength was assessed by the Handgrip strength. The physical performance was assessed by the Short Physical Performance Battery and the 6 Minute Walk Test. The following confounders were included in the statistical analysis: age, gender, body weight, physical activity, energy intake and protein intake. The multivariable linear regression model was used to assess the relation of calcium, magnesium, selenium and muscle mass, muscle strength and physical performance. Results: The study population consisted of 158 females (70.5%) and 66 males (29.5%). The multivariable linear regression models showed that there was significant association between selenium and muscle mass (β=0.0023, P=0.002). No significant association was found between calcium, magnesium, selenium and physical performance. Conclusion: In conclusion, this cross-sectional study did not find a significant association between dietary intake of calcium and magnesium and muslce mass, muscle strength and physical performance in older adults. However, this study found significant association between selenium and muscle mass. Besides, there was no significant association found between selenium and muscle strength and physical performance.