Understanding Physical Activity and Bone Health in Female Youth
We want to understand how physical activity and bone health are related in female youth. For one year, we will look at physical activity and bone health in active teenagers without an eating disorder and teenagers who are getting care for a restrictive eating disorder.
Why this Research Matters
The teen years are an important time for bones to grow and become stronger. Eating disorders and physical activity both affect bone health. By comparing teenagers with and without eating disorders, researchers hope to better understand what affects bone health more. What they learn could help improve future care for youth with restrictive eating disorders.
What to Expect
If you join this study, you will take part in three in-person study visits over one year. Visit 1 will take place at the start of the study, Visit 2 will take place about six months later, and Visit 3 will take place about 12 months after Visit 1. During the study, you will answer questions about your health, physical activity, and eating habits. You will also have your height and weight measured. After each visit, you will wear a small activity monitor on your leg for two weeks. Visits 1 and 3 will include blood collection, two bone scans, and a urine pregnancy test before the scans. Study tests will take place at Children’s Hospital Colorado and CU Anschutz Medical Campus. If you are under 18, a parent or legal guardian must give permission to join.
Study Duration
Your time in this study will last about 12.5 months.
Who can Participate
We are looking for active females to join our study. You may be able to join if you:
- Are 12 to 19 years old
- Have had your period for at least one year
- Participate in physical activity for at least 7 hours per week
- Do not have a diagnosed eating disorder
Study ID
Protocol Number: 23-1690
Compensation Information
Meet the Team
Principal Investigator