The dietary inflammation index and body mass index mediate the association between the dietary index for gut microbiota and sarcopenia in older women: evidence from NHANES 2011–2018

A lower DI-GM score was strongly associated with an increased risk of sarcopenia, particularly among older adults, women, individuals with hypertension, and individuals with reduced physical activity. The DII and BMI may mediate the relationship between DI-GM and sarcopenia risk, suggesting that a diet promoting gut health could be an effective strategy for preventing sarcopenia. Additional longitudinal or interventional studies are required to substantiate the findings of this study.