FIU Study: Prebiotic Fiber Increased Bone Mineral Content in Girls
A Florida International University study found that a prebiotic fiber supplement increased bone mineral content in girls. The effect was not observed in boys.
A clinical trial led by Florida International University (FIU) has found that adding a prebiotic fiber supplement to the diet increased bone mineral content in girls. Over 12 months, girls consuming soluble corn fiber saw an 18.8% increase in bone mineral content, compared to a 12.9% increase in a placebo group.
The study, funded by the National Institutes of Health and published in The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, highlights the potential impact on long-term bone health. Lead researcher Cristina Palacios noted the 6% difference is clinically significant and could help prevent osteoporosis later in life. The trial focused on children aged 9 to 14 with low calcium intake.
Boys did not exhibit the same benefit, which researchers suggest may be due to different stages of puberty and skeletal development. However, the researchers cautioned that the study was not designed to detect sex-based differences and further trials are needed for confirmation.
FIU researchers suggest soluble corn fiber could be incorporated into child-friendly foods to enhance calcium absorption. High-fiber diets are already linked to reduced risks of heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Palacios indicated that incorporating soluble fiber is an easy way to support bone health.