What this Trial Is About

This research aims to investigate how increased Greek yogurt consumption combined with high-impact exercise training affects bone metabolism and inflammation in competitive youth and young adult athletes aged 15 to 22 years. The study compares Greek yogurt to whey protein supplementation, a common practice among athletes, to evaluate potential benefits on bone growth and inflammatory markers. The purpose is to understand if Greek yogurt can provide additional nutrients important for healthy development that protein supplements may lack. Participants will first complete an 8-week control period during which they maintain their typical diet and training. Following this, they will enter a 16-week intervention phase where they are randomly assigned to consume either two servings per day of Greek yogurt or whey protein powder. The servings are carefully measured and flexible in timing to fit athletes' routines. Throughout the intervention, participants will continue their usual diet and training while logging their supplement intake daily. During the study, participants undergo multiple assessments at weeks 0, 8, 16, and 24. Blood samples will be taken to measure markers related to bone remodeling and inflammation. Bone strength will be evaluated using a portable ultrasound device, and body composition will be measured using bioelectrical impedance analysis. Dietary intake, nutrition knowledge, physical activity, and training volume will be tracked through food diaries, questionnaires, and logs. These comprehensive measurements will help determine how Greek yogurt versus whey protein influences bone health and inflammation in young athletes.

Effects of Increased Greek Yogurt Consumption in Youth and Young Adult Athletes