Exploring Effects Of Protein-rich Diet On Bone Health - Osteoporosis Study

Main Category: Bones / Orthopaedics
Also Included In: Nutrition / Diet
Article Date: 25 Jul 2008 - 1:00 PDT

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A study by Yale School of Medicine researchers will explore whether a diet rich in protein can improve bone health in post-menopausal women.

Karl Insogna, M.D., professor of internal medicine at Yale School of Medicine, will conduct the Supplemental Protein to Outsmart Osteoporosis Now (SPOON) study in 200 women over age 60. The multi-center trial will take place at both the Yale School of Medicine and at the University of Connecticut Health Center in Farmington, Conn.

Most nutritionists recommend dietary calcium and vitamin D for bone health but it now appears that increased protein in the diet also may have a protective effect and help prevent osteoporosis, according to Insogna. Past studies have shown a higher level of bone mineral density and a slower rate of bone loss in individuals with higher protein intakes. Although suggestive, said Insogna, these past studies do not prove that dietary protein is directly responsible for better bones. To answer the question about protein's influence on osteoporosis, the Yale researcher has developed a well-controlled protein supplementation study.

Participants will be asked to incorporate a protein powder or protein bar, or a placebo powder or bar, into their diet for 18 months. Insogna and his team will measure bone density, bone health and physical strength during the course of the study.

"Between 32 and 41 percent of women over age 60 consume a diet containing less than the recommended dietary allowance for protein," said Insogna. "Given the millions of women affected by osteoporosis and the side effects of the current anti-osteoporotic medications, nutritional therapies should be at the forefront of osteoporosis research. Our study will help to fill an important gap in the research on diet and bone health."

Osteoporosis and low bone-mineral density affect almost 44 million Americans over the age of 50, most of whom are women, and this number is expected to grow to 52 million by 2010.

Those interested in the SPOON study may call the recruitment center toll-free at 1-866-846-2849.

http://www.yale.edu