Effect of Lactiplantibacillus Plantarum LM1001 on Muscle Strength in Older Adults

Inclusion Criteria: * Adults aged 50 to 84 years (male or female) * Body mass index (BMI) between 18.5 and 30.0 kg/m² * Reduced skeletal muscle mass (≤110% of standard value by BIA) * Decreased handgrip strength according to age- and sex-specific criteria * Short Physical Performance Battery (SPPB) score over 9 * Able to perform normal physical activity and provide written informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * Clinically significant acute or chronic diseases requiring treatment * Conditions affecting muscle function or physical performance (e.g., severe musculoskeletal, neurological, or cognitive disorders, including sarcopenia) * Significant gastrointestinal disorders or history of major gastrointestinal surgery * Severe psychiatric disorders or recent use of antipsychotic medications * Respiratory diseases affecting lung function * Excessive alcohol intake, substance abuse, or heavy smoking * Known hypersensitivity to the investigational product or its components * Recent use of medications or supplements affecting muscle function or gut microbiota (e.g., antibiotics, probiotics, steroids) * Regular high-intensity or resistance exercise * Clinically significant abnormal laboratory findings or uncontrolled medical conditions * Recent fractures within the past year * Participation in another clinical trial within 3 months prior to screening * Pregnant or breastfeeding women * Individuals unable to communicate or ambulate * Any other condition deemed unsuitable by the investigator