New study investigates the effects of multispecies probiotic supplementation on serum bone turnover markers in postmenopausal women with osteopenia

Osteoporosis is a silent chronic disease associated with weakened bone mass and an increased risk of fracture.

According to a new study published this week in Nutrients, researchers investigated the effects of multispecies probiotic supplementation on bone turnover markers were evaluated after 12 weeks.

This was a randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trial that included 40 post-menopausal with osteopenia between 45 and 70 years of age. The study was conducted between March and September 2023. One group received a multispecies probiotic supplement which contained a potency of 8 billion CFUs along with some inulin as a prebiotic, and the control group received identical placebo sachets daily over a 12-week period.

The baseline assessment consisted of serum bone resorption marker C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX). These short proteins (peptides) make up certain regions of bones’ collagen. Collagen, specifically type 1 collagen, is the substance that makes up most of the non-mineral tissue of bone. Collagen forms the matrix upon which the mineral portion of bone accumulates. This collagen is strengthened by cross-linked proteins. They are produced during bone resorption and can be measured in blood or urine. Currently, CTX is most commonly measured in blood (serum). High serum CTX test levels have been found to correlate with low bone mineral density and to predict fracture risk. Serum CTX test levels are higher in people with osteoporosis compared to those without the disease. This is used to screen for excess bone loss and is useful for monitoring the effectiveness of osteoporosis treatments but is not diagnostic for osteoporosis like a DEXA scan.

After 12 weeks, the average difference in serum CTX at baseline versus 12 weeks was significantly different between the multispecies probiotic and placebo groups. In the individuals that took the multispecies probiotic showed a significant reduction in serum CTX levels after 12 weeks compared to the baseline. In addition, the placebo group showed no significant change.

As a results, a multispecies probiotic should be considered for a potential preventive effect on bone through their antiresorptive effect in osteopenic postmenopausal won as they are at an increased risk for progressive bone loss due to estrogen deficiency and the aging process.

Probiotics have an effect on slowing down osteoclast-induced bone resorption as well as decreasing inflammatory mediators and cytokine levels in the bone marrow and gastrointestinal tract maintaining intestinal barrier integrity. These changes send signals to promote a healthy bone homeostasis.

Other nutrients to consider include vitamins D, K1, and K2 as MK-4 as well as calcium, magnesium, delta and gamma tocotrienols, collagen peptides, and genistein. In addition, it is essential to make sure these individuals are obtaining adequate protein intake as well as addressing underlying hormonal imbalance.

Source: Vanitchanont M, Vallibhakara S, et al. Effects of Multispecies Probiotic Supplementation on Serum Bone Turnover Markers in Postmenopausal Women with Osteopenia: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Trial. Nutrients 05 Feb 2024, 16(3), 461

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