Body Composition, Dietary Intake, and Bone Mineral Density in Postmenopausal Women in Umuahia, Abia State, South East Nigeria

Background: Osteoporosis risk rises dramatically after menopause due to accelerated bone resorption secondary to oestrogen withdrawal. Dietary calcium, vitamin D adequacy, and lean body mass are important modifiable determinants of bone mineral density in postmenopausal women. Nigerian bone health data from the South East geopolitical zone at the PGD level are absent. Objectives: This study seeks to measure bone mineral density by dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry, assess dietary calcium and vitamin D intake using a validated food frequency questionnaire, and determine body composition by bioelectrical impedance analysis among postmenopausal women attending a gynaecology clinic in Umuahia, Abia State. Methods: Seventy postmenopausal women aged 50 to 70 years will be recruited. Dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry will measure lumbar spine and femoral neck bone mineral density. Dietary intake will be calculated from a three-day food frequency questionnaire using the Nigerian Food Composition Database. Body composition will assess lean mass and fat mass. Multiple regression will model dietary and body composition predictors of bone mineral density. Expected Outcomes: Low dietary calcium intake and reduced lean body mass are anticipated to independently predict lower bone mineral density, with the majority of participants consuming below recommended calcium levels. Conclusion: Results will guide bone health nutrition counselling for postmenopausal women in South East Nigeria. Keywords: bone mineral density, postmenopause, dietary calcium, body composition, Umuahia.