Insulin Resistance and Bone Mineral Density: A Comprehensive Examination Using UK Biobank Data

Purpose: The association between insulin resistance (IR) and bone mineral density (BMD) remains contentious. The aim of this study is to assess the predictive capability of the Triglyceride and Glucose (TyG) index concerning changes in bone mineral density, encompassing both deterioration and improvement. Methods: This study analyzed data from the UK Biobank, encompassing 2527 participants after exclusions. Logistic models and ANOVA were employed, with propensity score matching addressing the effects of age, BMI, and sex. The TyG index was calculated using this formula: Ln (triglyceride [mg/dL] × glucose [mg/dL]/2). Results: Initially, a positive correlation was observed between the TyG index and BMD measures. However, upon adjustment for age, sex, and BMI, this association lost significance. Propensity score matching further indicated no inverse relationship between the TyG index and osteoporosis development. Conclusions: Although the TyG index demonstrated a positive correlation with BMD, caution is warranted due to potential confounding by age, sex, and BMI. Notably, the TyG index alone did not predict changes in T-score or osteoporosis status.