Kefir Peptides for Bone Fracture Healing

This study aims to investigate the efficacy of kefir-derived peptides in enhancing bone healing after upper limb fractures. Kefir peptides are bioactive fragments of milk proteins that have shown potential in stimulating osteoblast differentiation, inhibiting osteoclast activity, and modulating inflammation in preclinical studies.

The study is designed as a randomized, controlled clinical trial. Eligible participants with acute upper limb fractures will be randomly assigned to receive either kefir peptide supplementation in addition to standard care, or standard care alone. The primary objective is to evaluate radiographic and clinical healing at 6 months, while secondary outcomes include pain relief, functional recovery, and quality of life measures.

This trial seeks to provide clinical evidence supporting kefir peptides as a safe and natural adjunct therapy to accelerate bone repair, potentially reducing recovery time and improving functional outcomes for patients with fractures.

Inclusion criteria

• Bone mineral density T-score ≤ -2.5 measured by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA)
• Acute fragility fracture of the distal radius or proximal humerus, and
• Postmenopausal women
• Age ≥ 50 years

Exclusion criteria

• Body mass index (BMI) > 30 kg/m²
• Use of medications affecting bone metabolism for more than 4 months, including: glucocorticoids、thyroxine、antiepileptic drugs、bisphosphonates

• calcitonin、hormone replacement therapy
• History of metabolic or systemic diseases affecting bone metabolism, including: hyperparathyroidism、hyperthyroidism、diabetes mellitus、 hepatic cirrhosis、renal insufficiency