The effect of a 16-week intervention of increased Greek yogurt consumption on circulating markers of bone metabolism and inflammation in youth and young adult athletes

Physical activity and dairy intake during growth and development are each known to improve peak bone mass. Peak bone mass, the maximum amount of bone a person will have in their lifetime, is typically reached in the early 20’s in females and late 20’s in males. However, evidence suggests that young people do not consume enough dairy to maximize their bone mass, which can be particularlytroublesomefor young athletes. This study aims to examine whether Greek yogurt consumption will lead to beneficial changes in bone metabolism and inflammation, in adolescent and young adult, male and female athletes, similar to those observed with whey protein supplementation. Many athletes choose exclusively protein supplementation and miss out on other nutrients vital for healthy growth and development.
The results can help reshape the attitudes, beliefs, and behaviours surrounding dietin this population.

Faculty Supervisor:

Panagiota Klentrou

Student:

Partner:

Dairy Farmers of Canada

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Agriculture; Information and cultural industries

University:

Brock University

Program: