Muscle strength, bone density and general resilience often decline with increasing age. Regular strength training is considered one of the most effective measures to counteract these changes. This study investigated whether microfiltered seawater, in addition to strength training, can have a positive impact on the health and well-being of older women.
Over several months, the participants either took part in moderate strength training with elastic resistance bands or remained physically inactive. In addition, they were given either microfiltered seawater or a placebo drink.
The results clearly show that strength training itself was the most important factor for improvements in muscle strength, bone stability and body composition. Women who exercised became stronger, more flexible and felt better overall – regardless of which drink they were given.
However, the women who also drank microfiltered seawater tended to show a greater improvement in several areas, particularly muscle strength, bone health, body fat distribution and subjectively perceived vitality. Physical complaints such as pain also decreased more in this group.
Conclusion: Microfiltered seawater is no substitute for exercise, but it can support its positive effects and additionally promote physical well-being in old age.
Background
Healthy ageing is closely linked to maintaining muscle strength, bone substance and physical independence. After the menopause, women are particularly susceptible to muscle loss, bone loss and functional limitations. These changes increase the risk of falls, fractures and a reduced quality of life.
Strength training is regarded as a key non-medicinal measure for preventing these age-related processes. At the same time, it is being discussed whether a targeted supply of minerals and trace elements can additionally support training-related adaptations. Microfiltered seawater contains a natural combination of minerals and trace elements that are relevant for muscle, nerve and bone metabolism.
Aim of the study
The aim of this randomized, double-blind, long-term study was to investigate whether microfiltered seawater can enhance the effects of moderate strength training in older women. The focus was on muscle strength, bone health, body composition and subjective quality of life.
Study design
The participants were divided into four groups:
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Strength training with seawater
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Strength training with placebo
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No training with seawater
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No training with placebo
The strength training consisted of regular, joint-friendly exercises with elastic resistance bands and was carried out over a longer period of time. The intake of the drink was standardized before the training sessions.
Central results
Muscular strength
Women who took part in strength training significantly improved their muscle strength. Although the additional intake of seawater did not lead to statistically clear differences between the training groups, it did show stronger positive trends in many measurements.
Bone health
The training had a positive effect on markers of bone metabolism. The seawater group in particular showed evidence of improved new bone formation and a more favorable balance between the formation and breakdown of bone tissue.
Body composition
Strength training led to an increase in muscle mass and a reduction in body fat percentage. These effects were somewhat more pronounced with additional seawater intake, while intake alone without training did not bring about any relevant changes.
Quality of life
The subjectively perceived quality of life improved, particularly in the women who exercised. Aspects such as vitality, general well-being and pain perception developed more favorably, with the combination of training and seawater having a particularly positive effect.
Classification of the results
The study clearly shows that exercise is the decisive factor for health improvements in old age. Microfiltered seawater does not act as a stand-alone measure, but rather as a supportive supplement that can promote training adaptations.
The authors emphasize that the minerals contained may help to better balance training-related stress and support regeneration processes.
Conclusion
Long-term, moderate strength training significantly improves muscle strength, bone metabolism, body composition and quality of life in older women. The additional intake of microfiltered seawater can support these effects, but is not a substitute for physical activity.
The study underlines the importance of a combined strategy of exercise and targeted mineral supplementation for healthy ageing.