When we think about bone health and osteoporosis prevention, calcium and vitamin D often come to mind. But you may want to increase your fiber intake as well to ensure your bones stay strong.
Importance of dietary fiber on bone health
A study conducted on mice assessed the importance of dietary fiber on bone health.
The researchers uncovered that short-chain fatty acids (SCFA) are known to “modulate immune responses of the host,” explained Dr. Mario M. Zaiss. SCFAs are the main products of microbial fermentation in the gut and immune system activation, which is linked the bone health status. The researchers hypothesized that by increasing SCFA, bone status may be protected.
To test their hypothesis, the researchers conducted three tests: Supplementation of drinking water with SCFA — those with either two, three, or four carbon chains (1) for periods of eight weeks. This was done in both normal and ovariectomized (OVX) mice (a model of human post-menopausal bone loss).
Water supplementation significantly increased SCFA concentration in the mice’s blood compared to mice that did not receive the supplemented water. CT scans of the tibia revealed positive effects on bone health. These mice also showed significant decreases in markers for bone resorption and osteoclasts – these are cells which break down bone. Osteoblast levels—cells that help build bone—remained normal. OVX mice who received treatment didn’t experience bone loss.
The next test involved giving mice fermentable fiber for eight weeks. These mice were compared to mice who were fed a normal diet. Mice fid higher amounts of fiber had increased bone mass, decreases in osteoclasts, and a reduction in CTX-1.
The last study had the researchers transfer bacteria to experimental mice. These bacteria are often found in animals with rheumatoid arthritis. The bacteria did not produce SCFA and no other benefits were found.
The researchers concluded that an increase in SCFA significantly suppressed osteoclastogenic signaling entities. Additional research into SCFA and its effects on bones needs to be conducted, but in the meantime, it may be beneficial for you to increase your intake of fiber as a means of staying regular, controlling your cholesterol, and maintaining strong bones.
Also read: Fiber rich diet can lower risk of osteoporosis, other chronic inflammatory joint diseases