Title of project

Optimal timing of meals and bone health in women with osteopenia

Abstract

Osteopenia is a common condition and may lead to osteoporosis and fractures. Osteopenia is diagnosed based on bone mineral density. During the night the bone resorption is highest, however a meal decreases bone resorption by 50 %. This project investigates whether administration of a meal before bedtime, can improve bone mineral density and bone turnover and potentially prevent the development of osteoporosis in postmenopausal women with osteopenia. The project consists of two studies where the first investigate which type and size of meal reduced bone resorption the most. In the second study 120 osteopenic women are randomized to ingestion of the meal that suppress bone resorption the most in study 1 in the morning or before bedtime for twelve months and it is investigated whehter this improves bone mineral density, bone turnover markers, bone structure, accumulation of bone marrow adipose tissue, and muscle- and balance function.