Ageing processes are associated with loss of muscle mass and impaired physical performance, both of which tend to lower quality of life. It is commonly known that coenzyme Q10 plays a significant role in cellular energy turnover and protects against oxidative stress. Now, two independent cohort studies even show a relation between the body’s Q10 status and muscle strength. Earlier research even suggests that Q10 supplements may help older people develop more youthful muscle fibers. Individuals who take cholesterol-lowering statins are advised to take Q10 supplements.

The essential omega-3 fatty acids support many metabolic processes, especially the two forms, EPA and DHA, which are found in oily fish and fish oil supplements. The concentration of omega-3 in our cells is affected by what we eat and our level of physical activity. Intense physical training can actually lower the cellular content of DHA and increase the concentration of saturated fatty acids, thereby increasing the risk of inflammation, cell damage, and aching joints. This was shown in a study of high performance runners. The researchers therefore recommend taking fish oil as a way of preventing injuries and pain. Fish oil supplementation is generally a good idea if you have inflammation in your joints or other places.

Loss of muscle mass may be a result of a number of factors such as lack of exercise, too little protein, and ageing. Insulin resistance and acid accumulation are also related to loss of muscle mass, and it looks as if increased intake of vegetables with potassium, a base-forming mineral, is linked to decreased loss of muscle mass in men – but not in women.

Q10 is involved in the energy turnover in all cells. The highest concentration of the compound is found in the heart, as this muscle needs to pump day and night and to supply muscle cells with more blood when we are physically active. The cellular energy turnover takes place inside some minute powerhouses called mitochondria. A Danish-Swedish study has shown that the mitochondria in the muscle cells of top-notch athletes have a different construction that makes them able to produce up to 25 per cent more energy. Earlier studies show that Q10 is able to improve athletic performance, and it all boils down to optimizing the energy turnover in the cells.

Medical science has claimed for decades that elevated cholesterol levels pose a health threat, especially if you have too much of the so-called “bad” cholesterol – or LDL (Low-Density Lipoprotein). However, a team of international experts is now arguing that this theory is exaggerated. In fact, the experts specifically advise against taking cholesterol-lowering statins. Meanwhile, science is focused on how to improve the safety of statins by combining them with supplements of coenzyme Q10.

Magnesium is important for an array of biochemical reactions that are involved in energy turnover, the nervous system, and muscle contraction. Lack of magnesium can therefore result in impaired physical performance, sore muscles, and muscle cramps – especially after a training session. Physically active people and athletes should be sure to get enough magnesium and beware that the need for magnesium increases with increasing activity. According to a review article published in Journal of Translational Medicine, it may be wise to take a high-quality magnesium supplement prior to training.

Most people thrive on the idea of staying physically active throughout life, but as we grow older, our skeletal muscle slowly vanishes and our figure changes. This is known as sarcopenia and is one of the main reasons why older people become more fragile and perhaps even disabled. Exercise and diet play a major role, and it seems that the official dietary guidelines are not optimal and should focus more on increased intake of protein as well as lysine, vitamin D, and omega-3 according to a new Canadian study. Earlier research shows that magnesium, selenium, and Q10 are also important for muscle mass and strength.

Age-related loss of muscle mass is a natural process and may result in increased feebleness and even disability. Strength training and diet play a major role, and older people need more protein, especially an essential amino acid called leucine. In addition, supplements of vitamin D, omega-3 fatty acids, and probiotics can have a positive impact on muscle mass and muscle strength, according to a review article that is published in Frontiers in Nutrition.

A lot of people take supplements of coenzyme Q10 to increase their energy levels but according to a new study the substance is even able to counteract muscle damage caused by intense physical activity.

Lack of vitamin D can impair your muscle function because it causes muscle cells to produce less energy, according to a study that is published in Journal of Endocrinology. The scientists use their study to argue that one can improve muscle function and reduce age-related loss of muscle strength in seniors by making sure they get enough vitamin D. If your muscles feel weaker during the winter period, you may want to consider taking a supplement.

Vitamin B3 has a therapeutic effect in the treatment of progressive muscle diseases, including mitochondrial myopathy that is caused by a defective cellular energy metabolism and which has no cure, according to a study from Helsinki University.

Older people with a high intake of vitamin C appear to have healthier skeletal muscle than those with lower intakes, according to a new study from the University of East Anglia in England. This is an important discovery because our natural loss of muscle mass begins in our forties and starts to accelerate after we pass the age of 65 years. The phenomenon is known as sarcopenia and is one of the main reasons why older people become increasingly fragile and susceptible to disease. The authors behind the study believe that it is particularly important for middle-aged and older people to get plenty of vitamin C from their diets or by taking supplements. As a bonus effect, vitamin C also protects against infections and cardiovascular diseases, which also typically affect seniors.

Vitamin D is essential for muscle function and normal muscle size, according to a new study that is carried out by scientists at Westmead Institute for Medical Research in Sidney. Lack of vitamin D may result in impaired muscle function, including such problems as poor physical fitness level, muscle tension and loss of muscle mass.