Nutritional intake and maintaining the balance between energy and nitrogen levels are major determining factors when it comes to ageing and good health. Nutrition plays a vital role in the onset, prevention and management of frailty syndrome in the elderly. Epidemiological studies have confirmed that frailty and its components are associated with an insufficient intake of protein, energy and micronutrients. Prevention of frailty should therefore incorporate the latest guidelines for recommended energy and protein intake. Such guidelines are not available for the majority of micronutrients, but minimal recommended daily intake requirements should be followed. Recent epidemiological investigations have shown the benefit of specific lifestyles, such as the Mediterranean diet which includes food that is rich in anti-oxidants and n-3 polyunsaturated fatty acids. Treatment pathways for sarcopenia and frailty may be proposed in light of such research: specific amino acids, polyunsaturated fatty acids and a diet high in pulses, however their benefit needs to be confirmed in a wider population. Nutrition must be combined with exercise and physical activity in order to increase anabolism, boost energy levels and improve functional capabilities.