Milk Nutrient Absorption for Nutrition
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to compare how well the body absorbs important nutrients such as vitamin D, calcium, potassium, and magnesium from various types of milk, including cow's milk and plant-based alternatives like almond, soy, and oat milk. Participants will drink one type of milk for a week, after which nutrient absorption will be measured through blood samples. The study suits individuals in good health who do not smoke, have no major health issues, and are willing to avoid certain foods and supplements for a few weeks. As an unphased trial, it offers participants the chance to contribute to valuable nutritional research that could influence dietary recommendations.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial requires participants to stop taking certain medications and supplements that could interfere with the study, such as multivitamins, vitamin D, and other dietary supplements. There is a specific 'washout' period (time without taking certain medications) of three weeks for multivitamins and three months for vitamin D supplements before starting the study.
Is there any evidence suggesting that this trial's treatments are likely to be safe?
Research has shown that dairy milk is generally safe to drink and provides important nutrients like calcium and vitamin D. Studies suggest that up to three servings of dairy products a day are well-tolerated and can help maintain bone health.
Soy milk is also popular, but it contains compounds that might affect calcium absorption. However, it is often enriched with calcium and vitamin D to enhance its nutritional value. Some individuals might experience allergies or reactions to certain compounds in soy milk.
Oat milk is usually enriched with calcium, but natural compounds in oats can influence calcium absorption. Proper processing, such as pasteurization, ensures its safety.
Almond milk is another option typically enriched with calcium and other nutrients. It is generally safe, though it naturally contains less protein compared to other milk types.
In summary, all these milk options are generally safe and well-tolerated for most people, especially when enriched. Checking labels for added nutrients and being aware of personal allergies or dietary needs is always advisable.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about this trial because it explores how different types of milk — dairy, soy, oat, and almond — affect the absorption of key nutrients like calcium, magnesium, potassium, and vitamin D. Unlike standard options that might focus on pills or fortified foods, this trial looks at everyday beverages and their natural nutrient profiles. Each milk type offers a unique nutrient composition and potential health benefits, which could lead to new insights on optimizing nutrition through simple dietary changes. By comparing these diverse milk options, researchers hope to discover more efficient ways to deliver essential nutrients.
What evidence suggests that this trial's treatments could be effective for nutrient absorption?
This trial will compare nutrient absorption from different types of milk: dairy milk, soy milk, oat milk, and almond milk. Research has shown that dairy milk provides important nutrients like calcium, vitamin D, potassium, and magnesium. The body absorbs about 30–40% of the calcium in dairy milk, which supports bone health. Studies indicate that fortified soy milk allows similar calcium absorption levels as cow's milk and contains more vitamins B1, B6, and E. Oat milk, with its high protein content, may aid digestion and nutrient absorption. Fortified almond milk offers calcium and vitamin D but generally contains fewer nutrients than dairy milk. Each type of milk has unique benefits, so the best choice depends on individual nutritional needs. Participants in this trial will consume one of these milk types to assess nutrient absorption.26789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Chelsea Preiss
Principal Investigator
Illinois Institute of Technology
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
Healthy adults with a BMI of 20-40 kg/m2 and weight ≥110 lbs, not on certain medications (like proton pump inhibitors or anti-inflammatory drugs), non-smokers, and not pregnant. Participants must avoid multivitamins and vitamin-D supplements for three weeks prior to the study, as well as vigorous activity, caffeine, and alcohol before visits.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Pre-study
Participants learn how to participate in the trial and schedule their study visits
Treatment
Participants consume assigned milk or PBMA and undergo blood and urine sampling
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for nutrient absorption and safety after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Calcium
- Magnesium
- Potassium
- Vitamin D
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Clinical Nutrition Research Center, Illinois Institute of Technology
Lead Sponsor
Food and Drug Administration (FDA)
Collaborator