A new study led by Dr Rupesh K. Srivastava, Additional Professor at the Department of Biotechnology, AIIMS, has revealed a powerful connection between gut health and bone strength in women, especially after menopause. The study offers new hope for preventing osteoporosis, a condition that affects millions of women as estrogen levels decline.
According to Dr Srivastava’s team, a special group of immune cells in the gut — called regulatory T cells (Tregs) — play a key role in keeping bones healthy. When estrogen levels drop during menopause, the gut lining weakens, healthy gut bacteria reduce, and inflammation in the body increases. All of these changes accelerate bone loss and increase the risk of fractures.
The study found that during estrogen deficiency, a protective subset of Tregs known as RORγT- pTregs can transform into Th17 cells, which are harmful and promote bone breakdown. This shift explains why many women experience rapid bone loss soon after menopause.
However, the research also offered a promising solution. When mice were given Lactobacillus acidophilus, a beneficial probiotic, their bone health significantly improved. The probiotic restored immune balance in the gut by increasing helpful metabolites such as butyrate, which reduce inflammation and prevent Tregs from turning into harmful Th17 cells.
Dr Srivastava explained that probiotics like Lactobacillus acidophilus are generally safe for daily use and can be consumed as supplements or through fermented foods such as curd and yoghurt. He added that digestive issues like bloating or indigestion may hint at gut imbalance, but actual immune imbalances can only be confirmed through laboratory testing.
Beyond probiotics, the study highlights the importance of a gut-friendly diet in supporting bone health. Fiber-rich foods — including fruits, vegetables, and whole grains — along with fermented foods and healthy fats, help good bacteria grow and produce metabolites that reduce inflammation and strengthen bones.
The AIIMS team is also exploring whether gut microbiome testing can help identify women who may be at higher risk of osteoporosis. Their ongoing research aims to map the gut bacteria patterns of postmenopausal women to support earlier diagnosis and better treatment strategies.
Overall, this study suggests, a healthy gut may be one of the most important keys to protecting bone health after menopause — and probiotics could play a major role in that journey.
