Effects of Increased Greek Yogurt Consumption on Bone Metabolism and Inflammation in Youth and Young Adult Athletes

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating whether increased consumption of Greek yogurt combined with regular high-impact exercise can improve bone health and reduce inflammation in young competitive athletes aged 15 to 22. The study focuses on male and female varsity and club athletes to see if Greek yogurt offers benefits similar to those from whey protein supplements, which are commonly used by athletes. This research aims to better understand how diet affects bone metabolism during growth and development in young athletes. The study is designed as a randomized controlled trial lasting 24 weeks, beginning with an 8-week control period where participants follow their usual diet and training. Afterward, for 16 weeks, athletes will be randomly assigned to consume either two daily servings of Greek yogurt or whey protein supplements while maintaining their habitual diets. The Greek yogurt servings are 175 g each, and the whey protein servings are 2/3 of a scoop dissolved in water, with flexibility in timing to fit training schedules. Participants will undergo assessments including blood tests at weeks 0, 8, 16, and 24 to measure markers of bone remodeling, inflammation, sex hormones, and growth factors. Bone strength will be evaluated using ultrasound at the same timepoints, and body composition will be measured by bioelectrical impedance analysis. Dietary intake, nutrition knowledge, and physical activity will be regularly tracked using food diaries, questionnaires, and training logs. The study aims to analyze changes in these measures to understand the effects of Greek yogurt versus whey protein on bone health and inflammation in young athletes.

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