Mediterranean Diet and Progressive Resistance Training Effects on BMD and Bone Turnover in the Elderly

Detailed Description

This randomized controlled trial was conducted to examine the effects of progressive resistance training (PRT) combined with a Mediterranean diet on bone mineral density (BMD) and bone turnover markers (BTMs) in older adults.

Participants were recruited and screened through a detailed medical history assessment, clinical examination, and dietary evaluation. Eligible individuals who met the inclusion criteria provided written informed consent before participation.

Participants were randomly assigned to either the experimental group (EXP; n = 22) or the control group (CON; n = 19). The intervention lasted 12 months. During this period, the experimental group participated in supervised progressive resistance training sessions combined with a Mediterranean diet intervention, while the control group received no structured intervention and maintained their usual lifestyle.

Bone mineral density and bone turnover markers were assessed at baseline and after the 12-month intervention period.

Inclusion criteria

• Adults aged 65 years and older
• Ability to provide written informed consent
• Willingness to comply with study procedures and interventions
• Capability to participate in a supervised exercise program

Exclusion criteria

• Presence of metabolic bone diseases (e.g., osteoporosis requiring pharmacological treatment, Paget's disease, osteomalacia)
• Use of medications affecting bone metabolism, including systemic corticosteroids, bisphosphonates, hormone replacement therapy, selective estrogen receptor modulators, calcitonin, or parathyroid hormone analogs
• Uncontrolled cardiometabolic or respiratory conditions (e.g., uncontrolled hypertension, unstable angina, recent cardiovascular events within 6 months, severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or poorly controlled diabetes)
• Severe musculoskeletal disorders or advanced osteoarthritis limiting safe exercise participation
• Neurological or psychiatric conditions affecting mobility or adherence
• Cognitive impairment (Mini-Mental State Examination score <24)
• Recent fractures or major orthopedic surgery within the past 12 months
• Underweight (BMI <18.5 kg/m²) or severe frailty
• Severe renal or hepatic dysfunction (e.g., chronic kidney disease stage 4-5 or liver failure)
• Active malignancy or ongoing chemotherapy/radiotherapy
• Participation in another clinical trial within the previous 3 months