| Objective To investigate the preventive effect of natto extract on osteoporosis, and to provide a theoretical basis for further research on the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. Methods By using the rat experimental study, the effects of natto extract on the body weight, body length, calcium absorption rate, and bone mineral density and bone calcium content of the femur of low-calcium-feeding rats were studied. Results (1) The body weight in rats of high dose group and calcium carbonate group was significantly greater than that in low calcium control group. The calcium absorption rate in high dose group was significantly higher than that in calcium carbonate control group (P<0.05). (2) The dry-weight of the femur in each dose group and calcium carbonate group was significantly higher than that in low calcium control group (P<0.05). (3) Bone mineral density and bone calcium content of the femur in high dose group were significantly greater than those in low calcium control group, and were not lower than those in calcium carbonate control group. Conclusion After giving different doses of the extract in rats by mouth for 90 days, bone mineral density and bone calcium content of the femur in rats were significantly higher than those in low calcium control group and not less than calcium carbonate group, and the rate of calcium absorption was not less than calcium carbonate group. The results show that natto increases bone mass by promoting calcium absorption, suggesting its possible role in preventing osteoporosis. |