RecruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Effect of Dairy Protein Yogourt vs Plant-based Yogourt on Body Weight, Body Composition, Bone Health and Gut Microbiota

This study is investigating how different types of yoghurt, specifically dairy protein yoghurt versus a plant-based alternative, impact various aspects of health in postmenopausal women who are overweight. Researchers want to understand if eating one type of yoghurt over the other can make a difference to body weight, body composition (meaning the amount of muscle and bone in the body), and overall metabolic health, which includes how the body uses energy. They will also examine how these yoghurts affect the 'good' bacteria in the gut. The study will involve women reducing their weight through diet for 12 weeks, with some groups adding either dairy or plant-based yoghurt, while others follow the diet alone. The goal is to discover the best ways to keep a healthy body as we age.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

Laval University

Enrolment target

Start

01 Nov 2023

Estimated completion

31 Dec 2026

Body Composition Changes Body Weight Change Metabolic Health Bone Metabolism Bone Health Gut Microbiota

What is this study about?

This research is trying to understand the full impact of eating dairy protein yoghurt compared to a plant-based yoghurt. The main goal is to see how these yoghurts affect your body weight, your body's make-up (like how much muscle and bone you have), and your general health. Researchers are especially interested in the changes these yoghurts might cause in your gut bacteria, which are tiny living things in your stomach and intestines that play a big role in your health.

The study builds on earlier findings that showed dairy protein, like casein, might be better than other proteins at preventing weight gain and balancing sugar levels, particularly when people eat a lot of fat. This effect was thought to involve changes in gut bacteria. So, this new study aims to dive deeper into this idea, focusing specifically on yoghurts.

Over 12 weeks, overweight women who are past menopause will take part. They will be put into one of three groups by chance: one group will eat dairy yoghurt, another will eat plant-based yoghurt, and a third group will just follow a diet without extra yoghurt. By comparing these groups, the researchers hope to find out if one type of yoghurt offers more benefits for maintaining a healthy body, understanding why these benefits happen, and finding new ways to measure improvements in health.

Key takeaways

Compares dairy vs. plant-based yoghurt for health.
Focuses on postmenopausal women over 40 who are overweight.
Studies impacts on weight, body make-up, and gut health.
Participation involves 12 weeks of dietary changes.
Aims to understand how food choice affects healthy ageing.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for women who have gone through menopause, meaning they haven't had a period for at least a year. You should be aged 40 or over and have a Body Mass Index (BMI) that indicates you are overweight or obese, specifically between 27.0 and 39.9. You can be someone who doesn't exercise much or someone who is moderately active.

However, there are reasons you might not be able to join. For example, if your weight has changed a lot recently (more than 5 kg in the last three months) or if you're currently on a special diet. You also can't have serious existing health problems like kidney issues, diabetes, or certain bone disorders. Allergies to dairy or lactose would also prevent you from participating. You also cannot be taking certain medications, especially those affecting your bones or hormones, or have used antibiotics or probiotic supplements recently.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you a woman who has gone through menopause?
Is your BMI between 27.0 and 39.9?
Have you avoided major weight changes in the last 3 months (>5kg)?
Do you have any food allergies, especially to dairy or lactose?
Are you free from serious health conditions like diabetes or kidney disease?
Have you avoided antibiotics or probiotic supplements in the last 6 months?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you join this study, it will last for 12 weeks. You will be asked to follow a diet designed for weight loss. Depending on which group you are randomly assigned to, you will either add dairy yoghurt, plant-based yoghurt, or no extra yoghurt to your daily diet. Researchers will take measurements before the study starts and again at the end of the 12 weeks. These measurements will likely include checking your body weight and composition (how much muscle and bone you have), and possibly collecting samples to look at your gut bacteria. The study involves a diet-based intervention, and you won't be given any new medications to take as part of this specific trial.

Potential risks and benefits

Participating in this study might offer several potential benefits, such as gaining a better understanding of your own body composition and gut health, and contributing to important scientific knowledge about diet and health for women after menopause. While there aren't many known risks with consuming yoghurt, some individuals might experience mild digestive upset, especially if they are sensitive to certain ingredients. You will also need to commit to following a specific diet for 12 weeks. Remember, taking part in any study is completely voluntary, and you have the right to withdraw at any time without giving a reason, which will not affect your medical care.

Locations (1)

INAF, Université Laval
Verified postcode
Québec, Canada· Recruiting

Common questions

What is 'Body Mass Index (BMI)'?

BMI is a measure that uses your height and weight to work out if your weight is healthy. A BMI between 27.0 and 39.9 means you are considered overweight or obese.

What does 'postmenopausal' mean?

It means you have gone through menopause, which is when your periods have stopped for at least 12 months.

Will I know which type of yoghurt I'm eating?

The study will randomly assign you to one of the groups, so you might be asked to eat dairy yoghurt, plant-based yoghurt, or stick to your diet without extra yoghurt.

What is 'gut microbiota'?

This refers to all the tiny living things, like bacteria, that live in your gut. They play an important role in your digestion and overall health.

Will I have to pay to be in the study?

Clinical trials generally cover the costs related to your participation in the study itself. You should confirm this with the study team.

How to find out more

Julie Marois, M.Sc.

julie.marois@fsaa.ulaval.ca 1-418-656-5258 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.