A simple dietary supplement could help eliminate some of the problems caused by ageing, scientists believe.

As we get older we can lose up to 30%-40% of our muscle mass and if we pile on the pounds we also have an increased risk of developing type 2 diabetes.

In a study, launched yesterday, scientists from Aberdeen's Rowett Research Institute, are hoping to find out whether taking a supplement will help to reduce these age-related health problems.

As we age, our muscles become less sensitive to the action of insulin which is produced in our bodies when we eat and which regulates the levels of glucose in our blood.

One of the results of this reduced sensitivity to insulin is a progressive loss of muscle mass as the balance between muscle synthesis and breakdown is altered, with the rate of breakdown overtaking the muscle building function as we get older.