Healthy Volunteer
Research Study
Researchers at the Marcus Institute for Aging Research-Hebrew SeniorLife are studying the effects of a capsule that contains probiotics and plant fiber on bone health in older women. Join our compensated study today!
Fast Facts
Women ages 60+
No history of cancer (other than minor skin cancer) or type 2 diabetes
no smoking in the last 6 months
Compensation Provided
Conducted in Roslindale, MA and surrounding areas
Study Background
Researchers at Hebrew SeniorLife are conducting the STARS study (Synbiotic To Attenuate Resorption of the Skeleton) to promote better bone health.
There are two phases of bone loss in women: the bone loss that occurs around the time of menopause, and the ongoing bone loss that occurs well beyond menopause.
We are testing whether capsules containing probiotics and plant fiber will keep your bones healthy.
Participants will complete an 18-month trial, which involves taking capsules twice a day. Additionally, participants will attend four 1-hour in-person study visits.
Your participation in this study may help researchers learn more about how to maintain bone health in older women. Advance research today and join our compensated study!
Study Background
Researchers at Hebrew SeniorLife are conducting the STARS study (Synbiotic To Attenuate Resorption of the Skeleton) to promote better bone health.
There are two phases of bone loss in women: the bone loss that occurs around the time of menopause, and the ongoing bone loss that occurs well beyond menopause.
We are testing whether capsules containing probiotics and plant fiber will keep your bones healthy.
Participants will complete an 18-month trial, which involves taking capsules twice a day. Additionally, participants will attend four 1-hour in-person study visits.
Your participation in this study may help researchers learn more about how to maintain bone health in older women. Advance research today and join our compensated study!
Additional Information
You may qualify for this study if you meet the following criteria.
Key Criteria:
- Women ages 60+
- No smoking in the last 6 months
- No history of major bone breaks since the age of 50 years (does not include minor bone breaks e.g. toe, finger, and nose) that is treated with osteoporosis medications
- No history of cancer (other than minor skin cancer) or type 2 diabetes
- No allergies to gelatin or berries
- No history of major bowel problems or intestinal issues such as Crohn’s disease, irritable bowel syndrome, and ulcerative colitis
- Have not taken antibiotics in last 3 months
- No bone diseases or osteoporosis treated with osteoporosis medications
Once enrolled, this study involves:
- Answering a prescreening phone call to determine initial eligibility
- Attending an in-person screening for physical measures, DXA bone scan and blood tests
- Completing a baseline visit for questionnaires on diet, physical activity, health, QCT scan of spine, stool sample collection, and blood tests
- Attending a 9-month follow-up visit for questionnaires on physical activity, health, DXA bone scan and blood tests
- Attending an 18-month final follow-up visit for questionnaires on diet, physical activity, health, DXA and QCT scan of spine, stool sample collection, and blood tests
- Completing 10 days of surveys delivered via text
Participants will be called every month to see how they are doing and if they are consuming study products.
Compensation is provided up to $100 (two $50 gift cards) for your participation.