The CHAMP study

As people get older, they often experience knee pain, which may progress to degenerative joint changes leading to osteoarthritis (OA). OA is a common form of joint disease which can be painful and affect movement and other activities. There is no cure and treatment of OA usually focuses on management of pain or surgery. Although OA is affected by genes and environmental factors, emerging research suggests diet and lifestyle may also be important.

The aim of this study is to investigate the effects of a novel collagen protein (SuprosolTM), extracted from cowhide, on age-related knee pain, skin appearance and inflammatory markers and compare it to milk protein or placebo. Changes in markers of metabolic syndrome will also be assessed because there is an association between these and inflammatory conditions such as OA.

Inclusion criteria

We are looking for postmenopausal women (5+ years after last menstrual period) who:

• are aged 50 years and over
• have no history of surgery or trauma to the knees
• have no medically diagnosed heart/renal/hepatic disease, gout or rheumatoid arthritis and other autoimmune inflammatory disorders
• are not taking prescribed medication for osteoarthritis, other than over-the-counter pain relief (such as paracetamol)
• are not lactose intolerant or a strict vegetarian (collagen is sourced from animals)
• have BMI below 40
• are not heavy smokers or high alcohol consumers.

All participants will be compensated with up to $40 PAK'nSAVE vouchers as a koha (gift).

If you are interested in participating please contact the CHAMP Research team:

• email CHAMP@massey.ac.nz
• phone +64 6 951 6228.