Nutrients: Greek yogurt may trigger bone tissue renewal

Two servings of Greek yogurt per day may activate bone tissue renewal in people over the age of 55, according to a study published in the journal Nutrients.

The experiment involved 48 participants aged over 55. Some of the volunteers exercised regularly, while others led a sedentary lifestyle. All participants were instructed to add two servings of Greek yogurt, 175 grams each, to their daily diet. Over an eight-week period, the volunteers underwent blood tests and body composition assessments.

The results showed that physically active participants who included yogurt in their diet had increased levels of the bone resorption marker CTX-I, which may indicate enhanced bone tissue turnover. Among non-exercising participants, there was a sharp decrease in interleukin-6, a key marker of chronic inflammation, while levels remained stable in those who were physically active.

The authors emphasize that the findings should be interpreted with caution at this stage—larger and longer-term studies are needed to assess the benefits of Greek yogurt more conclusively. However, the researchers already suggest that the positive effect may be due to the combination of protein and calcium.

Calcium is the main structural component of bones and teeth, providing them with strength. Nearly all the calcium in the body is stored in bone tissue; a deficiency increases the risk of fractures and osteoporosis. Calcium also plays a role in the continuous process of bone remodeling that maintains bone integrity.

Protein, in turn, is essential for the formation of collagen—the main organic “framework” of bones, which makes up most of the bone matrix. It gives bones flexibility and reduces brittleness, while also promoting calcium absorption and supporting hormones that regulate bone metabolism.

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