Blackcurrant Shows Promise for Mitigating Postmenopausal Bone Loss

As women enter the postmenopausal stage, the risk of bone density loss increases significantly, leading to a heightened susceptibility to fractures and osteoporosis. However, recent research from the University of Connecticut (UConn) suggests that a natural intervention—blackcurrant supplementation—may offer a protective effect against this common age-related concern.

In a study published in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry, UConn researchers explored the potential of blackcurrant, a tart berry known for its rich antioxidant content, to mitigate bone density loss in peri- and early postmenopausal women. Led by Ock Chun, PhD, a professor of nutritional sciences, the research builds on earlier findings from animal studies, which indicated that blackcurrant could prevent bone density loss in mice.

The latest study involved 40 women aged 45 to 60, who were either peri- or early post-menopausal. Over a six-month period, participants were randomly assigned to take either one or two capsules of blackcurrant powder daily, or a placebo. Each capsule contained 392 milligrams of blackcurrant powder. The results were promising: participants who took the supplements experienced not only prevention of bone density loss but, in the case of those taking two capsules daily, an increase in whole-body bone mineral density.

The study delved into the underlying mechanisms driving these results. Researchers discovered that blackcurrant supplementation led to a decrease in interleukin-1 beta and RANKL proteins, both of which are involved in bone resorption—a process that decreases bone density. The reduction in RANKL, in particular, was directly correlated with the observed increase in bone density, highlighting its potential as a biomarker for monitoring bone health.

Additionally, the study found that blackcurrant supplementation positively influenced the gut microbiome, specifically increasing levels of a beneficial bacterium called Ruminococcus 2. This bacterium plays a key role in breaking down dietary fibers and polysaccharides, transforming them into energy, and potentially contributing to the protective effects on bone density.

Given the low compliance with conventional osteoporosis medications due to their side effects, the study explained that blackcurrant presents a promising alternative with fewer risks and potential additional health benefits. As the UConn research team continues to investigate the broader implications of blackcurrant on overall health, these initial results suggest that this berry could play a significant role in preventing postmenopausal osteoporosis.

Researchers said that future studies will aim to further unravel the complex interactions between blackcurrant supplementation, the gut microbiome, and bone health, paving the way for more targeted and effective interventions.