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Associations of Protein Intake and Protein Source with Bone Mineral Density and Fracture Risk: A Population-Based
L Langsetmo1, S I Barr, C Berger
1David Goltzman, Royal Victoria Hospital, CaMos, 687 Pine Ave W, Room E1.64, Montreal, QC H3A 1A1, Email: david.goltzman@mcgill.ca, Telephone: 514-843-1632, FAX: 514-843-1651.
The Journal of Nutrition, Health & Aging
|September 29, 2015
Summary
Low protein intake, particularly below 15% of total energy intake, is linked to increased fracture risk in adults over 50. Dairy protein intake was associated with higher bone mineral density (BMD).
Area of Science:
- Nutrition Science
- Bone Health
- Gerontology
Background:
- High dietary protein's impact on bone mineral density (BMD) and fracture risk is debated.
- Previous studies show conflicting results, with limited data on protein source effects.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the association between total protein intake and protein from dairy, non-dairy animal, and plant sources with BMD.
- To determine the relationship between protein intake and BMD change, and incident osteoporotic fractures.
Main Methods:
- Prospective cohort study (Canadian Multicentre Osteoporosis Study) with 6510 participants.
- Protein intake assessed as % of total energy intake (TEI) via food frequency questionnaire.
- BMD measured at baseline and Year 5; incident fractures ascertained annually.
Main Results:
- Dairy protein intake positively correlated with total hip BMD in adults 50+ and men 25-49.
- Adults 50+ with protein intake <12% TEI (women) or <11% TEI (men) had higher fracture risk than those with 15% TEI.
- Fracture risk was not significantly associated with protein source or intake above 15% TEI.
Conclusions:
- Low protein intake (<15% TEI) in adults 50+ is associated with increased fracture risk, contrary to high-protein concerns.
- Protein source influences BMD but not fracture risk.
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