Osteoporosis: Popping calcium pills won't do it folks!

10:34 AM Unknown 0 Comments

Osteoporosis, or the the thinning of the bones, is a disease that will affect approximately 14 million people by 2020 if additional efforts are not made to stem this disease. Are you aware that it may be largely prevented with lifestyle considerations and treatment when appropriate? (241). http://www.iofbonehealth.org/facts-statistics

 14 million people by 2020 will have Osteoporosis if we don't change our lifestyle. 

• Many women binge diet, losing weight too fast and lose the body fat required for bone health.
• Our diets lack the proper nutrients required to build bones; the foods consumed are low in calcium.
• Strong muscles build strong bones; women are less likely to lift weights and partake in other muscle building activities that create a strong skeletal system.

Bones need more than just calcium.  Many doctors will prescribe a high dose calcium pill and call it a day.  Unfortunately much of that calcium is wasted and excreted out in our urine.  Many of us consume too many of the the calcium depleting foods, giving little focus to the building ones.

So what are we doing now that can contribute to a diagnosis of Osteoporosis?

• The calcium we consume is not a natural source.  It is shown that minerals, vitamins and other phytonutrients are best used by the body when derived from their natural source, not a pill.
• We are deficient in supporting minerals: magnesium, zinc, manganese, copper and boron.  When we have an imbalance our bones weaken.  All of these are required for bone building.
• Vitamin D is low.  Dr. Sears states in his Prime Time Health book that Prime Timers (30+) need 2000 IU daily.  Ensure it is Vitamin D3, not the other forms found.  Also consider an dropper style, oil base versus pill form to ensure absorption.
• Too much animal protein.  Our body is always trying to keep a balance in terms of pH.  When we are too acidic from having eaten meat our body will draw on the calcium bank (AKA our bones) to balance it out.
• Too much phosphorus.  Phosphorus is needed to build strong bones, in partnership with calcium.  The Standard American Diet has too much phosphorus present though.  Meat, processed foods and Pop/Soda are high in phosphorus, calcium will be depleted to balance it out.
• Too much salt.  The salt seeks out calcium and both are excreted in urine.
• Too much sugar.  This food item compels the body to excrete magnesium and calcium into the urine.
• Too much medicine. Excess use of antacids can increase calcium loss.
• Weak digestion.  The absorption of calcium is difficult as we age due to low stomach acid.

As Dr. Sears says, "There is more to Osteoporosis than simply downing more calcium". (Dr. Sears, Prime Time Health, page 145).