Osteoporosis

Probiotics to control osteoporosis after menopause?

A study by researchers at the Emory University of Medicine and Georgia State University, recently published some such evidence in the Journal of Clinical Investigation (April 2016)¹

« It is clear that lack of estrogens creates a major permeability of the intestinal barrier resulting in long-term chronic inflammation and production of cytokines, which induces bone loss. The study conducted by Dr. Pacifici confirms the importance of intestinal microflora in the treatment of postmenopausal osteoporosis. A discovery which is not so surprising as it further confirms my deep conviction that the digestive system, the largest organ in contact with the outside world, is fundamental for a healthy balance and healthy aging. »

Pr De Simone, About

This trial conducted in ovariectomized mice revealed the protective potential of probiotics on postmenopausal osteoporosis. In this type of osteoporosis we knew that the immune system was involved, but the mechanisms were not yet clearly identified.

Preserved bone density

Ovarian ablation in mice produces hormonal changes and effects comparable to the menopausal process in women.
In the study, the ovarectomized animals were separated into two groups. The first group received no treatment. The second group was divided into two subgroups, which received twice a week two different probiotics (Lactobacillus GG in one group and my probiotic formulation, a mixture of 8 strains, 450 billion in the other group). One month after ovariectomy, the group of mice without treatment had lost half of its bone density. Conversely, a preserved bone density was observed in both groups of mice taking probiotics.

Menopause and intestinal permeability

Researchers have demonstrated the protective role of estrogens on the intestinal wall. They found that the loss of estrogen increased the intestinal permeability, thus allowing certain bacterial substances to activate the immune system and inflammatory reactions that appear to be the source of bone resorption. By reducing intestinal permeability, probiotics would reduce the inflammatory signals that cause bone loss.

¹Jau-Yi Li et al, Sex steroid deficiency–associated bone loss is microbiota dependent and prevented by probiotics, Journal of Clinical Investigation (2016). DOI: 10.1172/JCI86062
Disponible en ligne : https://jci.org/articles/view/86062