Effect of calcium and dairy products intake on body composition and blood lipids in Puerto Rican obese adults

Abstract

Studies have shown that high calcium diets significantly reduce body weight and fat in obese individuals. The purpose of this study was to examine the effects of increased calcium intake (dairy or supplements) on body weight and fat and blood lipids in Puerto Ricans while on isocaloric diets. A 6‐months randomized, double‐blind, placebo‐controlled trial was conducted in obese adults, aged 21‐50 years and BMI >30 kg/m2. A total of 32 subjects were randomly assigned to one of three groups: 1300 mg/d of calcium from dairy products (foods were substituted with dairies) or supplements and placebo group. Subjects were asked not to change their diet (except for the dairy group) and physical activity during the study, which were monitored monthly. Weight, fat and lean body mass (by DEXA), and blood lipids were measured at baseline and at the end of the study. Twenty five subjects completed the study. Mean intakes of calcium during the trial was 1197±184 mg/d in the dairy group, 1171±196 mg/d in the supplemental group and 668±201 mg/d in the control group, which was significantly lower compared to the 2 treatment groups (P<0.001). No significant differences were observed in the mean change in any of the measurements between the three treatment groups. In conclusion, increasing calcium intake from dairy products or supplements did not alter body weight and fat and blood lipids in this group.