FHN Complementary Medicine Monthly Newsletter November 2005
Increasing Bone Density
Osteoporosis and bone fracture due to osteoporosis are a significant problem for people as we age or have bone loss due to drug therapy (ie steroids). Calcium (especially calcium apaitite) and Vit. D supplementation and exercise can help slow the loss and may show some moderate increases in density over time. For more severe cases osteoporosis drugs have been needed. Fosamax, Actonel, Bovina, etc. have been shown to reduce fractures by 40% , but in many cases have produced side effects. Those have included nausea, heartburn, GI problems, and in a few cases kidney failure.
So is there an alternative?
Sometimes something old becomes new again. Strontium! Strontium is a mineral (Sr) atomic weight of 87. (Not the radioactive Sr 90 of atomic weapon fears of the 1950’s).
Sr was used a hundred years ago for bone health but fell out a favor in the 1950’s. I guess people thought they would glow in the dark!
Recently studies looking at Strontium have shown it also can increase bone density in the 40% range over time. With one big advantage….. little to no side effects.
Studies show dosage ranges between 700 -1500 mg /day. Because Sr can interfere with calcium absorption it should be taken at a separate time from calcium ingestion.
Dosages at that level should be taken for 2-3 years for maximum bone density, unless you are on drugs that affect bone density and then continuous usage would be required .
Sincerely
Drs. Glenn and Julie Smith
Complemetary Medicne
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