The relationship between watermelon consumption and sarcopenia in an elderly general population: findings from the Tianjin chronic low-grade systemic inflammation and health study.

ABSTRACT:

Background

Sarcopenia, a progressive skeletal muscle disorder characterized by accelerated loss of muscle mass, strength, and function, affects 10-16% of elderly individuals globally, posing a significant public health challenge. Nutrition is crucial in mitigating sarcopenia progression, with research increasingly focusing on whole foods rather than isolated nutrients. Watermelon emerges as a potentially beneficial functional food due to its high content of L-citrulline, which may support muscle health through various biological mechanisms.

Methods

This population-based cross-sectional study was conducted in Tianjin, China, and analyzed 3,733 elderly participants. Sarcopenia was diagnosed using Asian Working Group for Sarcopenia criteria. Watermelon consumption was assessed

SUBMITTER: Wang X 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12518088 | biostudies-literature | 2025

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature