Blackcurrant Extract for Osteoporosis

This trial tests blackcurrant extract to determine its effects on bone health and gut bacteria in postmenopausal women. Researchers aim to discover if this supplement can improve bone density and alter the gut microbiome. Participants will receive either a low or high dose of blackcurrant extract or a placebo (a pill with no active ingredient). The trial seeks women who have stopped having periods for up to 10 years, are not on hormone therapy, and can discontinue other supplements during the study. As a Phase 1 trial, the research focuses on understanding how the treatment works in people, offering participants a chance to be among the first to receive this new treatment.

If you are taking medications that affect bone and calcium metabolism, or medications that alter bleeding, you will need to stop taking them to participate in the trial. The protocol does not specify other medications, but you should discuss your current medications with the study team.

Earlier research has shown that blackcurrant extract may reduce the risk of bone loss in postmenopausal women. Specifically, taking 784 mg of blackcurrant powder daily for six months helped prevent bone loss. While these results are encouraging, most studies have been conducted on cells and animals. Therefore, although blackcurrant extract appears safe, its full effects on humans remain under investigation.

Unlike the standard treatments for osteoporosis, which often include bisphosphonates or hormone-related therapies, blackcurrant extract offers a natural alternative. Researchers are excited about blackcurrant extract because it is rich in antioxidants and may promote bone health by reducing oxidative stress and inflammation, which are key factors in bone loss. This natural approach could provide a gentler option with potentially fewer side effects compared to conventional drugs. Additionally, the study is exploring both low and high doses of blackcurrant extract, which may help optimize its effectiveness for preventing or treating osteoporosis.

This trial will compare different doses of blackcurrant extract for their effects on osteoporosis. Research suggests that blackcurrant extract might help reduce bone loss in postmenopausal women. In one study, women taking blackcurrant supplements lost less bone strength compared to those who did not. Blackcurrants may help by affecting certain proteins that maintain bone strength and might also improve gut health, indirectly supporting bone health. Early animal studies have shown that blackcurrant extract can improve bone strength. Overall, promising evidence suggests that blackcurrants could help manage osteoporosis.¹⁴⁵⁶⁷