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Published on: January 29, 2018
[Effect of the whey basic protein on bone mineral density].
Bing Du1, Wei-zhong Chai, Xiao-ming Lin
1Department of Food and Nutritional Health, College of Public Health, Beijing University, Beijing, 100083, China.
Summary
Whey basic protein supplementation increased bone mineral density in rats. However, this study found no significant effect on bone mineral density in healthy middle-aged women.
Area of Science:
- Nutrition Science
- Bone Metabolism
- Biochemistry
Context:
- Osteoporosis is a growing concern, particularly in aging populations.
- Dietary interventions are being explored to improve bone health.
- Whey basic protein is a dairy-derived protein with potential anabolic properties.
Purpose:
- To investigate the impact of whey basic protein on bone metabolism in Sprague-Dawley rats and healthy middle-aged women.
- To assess changes in bone mineral density (BMD) and bone turnover markers.
Summary:
- In rats, whey basic protein administration at 10 mg/kg body weight/day significantly increased femur bone mineral density compared to controls.
- In healthy women, supplementation with 30 mg or 60 mg of whey basic protein daily for 24 weeks did not result in significant differences in BMD at the lumbar spine, femoral neck, or calcaneus compared to placebo.
- No significant changes in serum bone-specific alkaline phosphatase or N-telopeptide were observed in women.
Impact:
- Whey basic protein may have a positive effect on bone density in animal models.
- Current evidence suggests whey basic protein supplementation does not significantly impact bone density in healthy middle-aged women.
- Further research is needed to explore optimal dosages and populations for potential bone health benefits.
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