The effect of Whey protein and MBP (milk basic protein) on bone health parameters: A systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trials

Abstract Background and Aims: A major public health concern worldwide, osteoporosis causes an increased risk of bone fractures and a decrease in bone mineral density (BMD). The present systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to determine the effect of whey protein and MBP (milk basic protein) on bone health parameters. Methods We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized clinical trial (RCT) studies. The online databases of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, and Google Scholar was searched up to 30 July 2022, using controlled terms (e.g. MESH) and text words for milk protein or whey and bone-health outcomes, including lumbar-BMD, hip-BMD, Urinary N-terminal telopeptides of type I collagen (NTx) serum C-terminal telopeptides of type I collagen (CTx), Osteocalcin, and IGF levels. Results Outcomes were pooled as standard mean difference (SMD) and 95% confidence interval (CI) in a Random-effect meta-analysis model. Nine RCTs met the eligibility criteria and were selected for the final analyses. The analysis indicated a significant decrease in NTx [SMD: -0.89 nmol/mmol, CI: -1.69 to -0.10%, P = 0.028] following supplementation with MBP compared to the placebo group. Also, whey supplementation resulted in a significant increase in IGF [SMD: 3.55 nmol/l, 95% CI: 3.12 to 3.98%, P = 0.001, \({I}^{2}\) = 58.1%, p = 0.092]. However, there were no significant mean differences in lumbar-BMD, hip-BMD, serum CTx and Osteocalcin between the two groups. Conclusions Whey or MBP supplementation may reduce NTx and increase IGF, particularly when adults are supplemented for 12 weeks or longer, however findings on lumbar-BMD, hip-BMD, serum CTx and Osteocalcin are inconclusive.