Skeletal and Cognitive Effects of Nutrition From Eggs

This 9-month randomized controlled trial is an egg product intervention in otherwise healthy, 9-13 year-old children in the early stages of puberty (N=120). It will assess changes in bone material and geometric properties using dual energy x-ray absorptiometry (DXA) and peripheral quantitative computed tomography (pQCT). Cognitive function will be measured by the National Institute of Health's Toolbox. Participants will be randomized to one of 3 treatment (i.e., whole egg powder, whole milk powder, or gelatin) groups, and instructed to consume the food projects 10 times/week in substitute for other similar food products in their diet for 9-months. Five product choices per treatment group will be provided. The food products were developed specifically for this study by the University of Georgia's Food Product Innovation and Commercialization center and consumer tested. Additionally, these food products will be micro-tested prior to distribution to participants. We hypothesize that children consuming whole egg products will have enhanced bone outcomes and cognitive abilities in comparison to those consuming whole milk powder or gelatin.