Just Ask Terry

Terry is happy to provide his opinion on diet and nutrition, supplements and lifestyle choices. This information is for educational purposes only. It is not meant to replace the advice of your physician and is not to be considered medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Should you have any concerns please contact your physician directly.

Q. Dear Terry, “I am 52 years old and have broken both my wrists, the most recent being 2 months ago. Do you have any suggestions on what to take to strengthen my bones? Thank you.” — Frances S., Oshkosh, WI

A. Dear Frances, When it comes to supporting bone health, it takes a full family of nutrients.

I would first suggest you start taking a combination of calcium, magnesium, vitamin D3, K1 and K2, silicon, boron, zinc, copper and manganese complimented with a probiotic (the “good bacteria” that helps us absorb nutrients) such as Bacillus coagulans to support bone health and increase bone density. I recommend taking 2 tablets at lunch and 2 tablets at dinner or bedtime.

You may also want to consider adding organic silica from horsetail to your regimen. It may surprise you to know this, but silica – not calcium – is the top osteoporosis supplement in parts of Europe. In fact, studies have shown that silica can increase calcium absorption by 50% and bone density by 15%. Silica tends to be poorly absorbed, so look for a product that contains organic silica and bioflavonoids, blended with marine oil. This form of silica is clinically studied, extremely soluble, and virtually 100% bioavailable for the body. I recommend taking 60 mg daily for two weeks, then 40 mg daily thereafter.

The trace mineral strontium is also essential for optimal bone health. Strontium is a component of bones and occurs naturally in the body. Studies using strontium in the treatment of osteoporosis showed significant improvements in bone mineral density (BMD). In fact, a 2010 study published in Rheumatology International actually compared the effects of strontium to a well-known osteoporosis drug called alendronate (brand name Fosamax). In this study of women with osteoporosis, strontium was much more effective than the drug for increasing bone thickness and density—all without serious adverse effects. Look for a formula that contains strontium citrate, a very absorbable form of strontium. I recommend 680 mg of elemental strontium daily.

Since strontium and calcium are absorbed via the same pathway, they should be taken separately, several hours apart from one another. Therefore, I would suggest taking strontium in the morning and other bone building minerals later in the day and at bedtime.

Healthy Regards!

Terry . . . Naturally