Researchers from McMaster University found that by exercising regularly and taking creatine and conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), two common supplements, old people can improve greatly both their mental and physical strength, local media reported Tuesday.

    Creatine is often used by bodybuilders to encourage muscle growth. CLA is a substance found in meat and dairy products and is said to reduce body fat.

    Researchers at the university tested 39 seniors aged 65 to 85. One group did an hour of weight training twice a week, and took five grams of creatine and six grams of CLA each day for six months. The other group exercised as well, but took placebos.

    The 11 men and 10 women on the creatine/CLA combo lost, on average, two kilograms, or four-and-a-half pounds, of fat mass, becoming leaner and stronger.

    One 77-year-old participant named Michael said he felt great bythe end of the study. "Oh much better... much more vigorous. It helps a great deal."

    Dr Robert Petrella from the Department of Family Medicine at the University of Western Ontario, said the study could have huge implications not only for strength improvement but also quality oflife.

    "If we can make patients -- who are getting older -- stronger and able to maintain their activities of daily living, it will not only lead to improved quality of life for older people but health-care savings as well," he said.

    The study has been published in the journal "PLoS ONE."