Doug Lucas and Algaecal Plus???

I will definitely check it out. I am rather “anti-drug.”

Some of us cannot afford to be anti-drug. I am pro-drug -for me -since Tymlos got me from severe to borderline osteoporosis. I think Lucas is good for basic information and he says he "rarely" uses meds. I believe, personally, that no matter how optimal our diet, supplements, exercise and other "natural" factors are, that after menopause we are going to lose bone. We are living a lot longer now than in the past!

He also says that a doctor is "bullying" a patient to take meds. I think it is a doctor's responsibility to encourage certain patients with severe osteoporosis or fractures, to take meds. The patient in question already had two fractures.

Well said Windy!!

I think Doug Lucas is self-promoting in the interest of selling his program for thousands of dollars. I agree with @windyshores. Thank goodness we have medication for all those who need it. I was "anti-meds" too as I've been health conscious and organic for the last 40 years and always preferred to work hard at my health through exercise and a healthy diet. After my diagnosis, I was determined to improve my density naturally by doubling down on all the good things I was already doing but adding more exercise and targeted nutrition. During that two year period, I lost a lot more bone and ultimately had to go on meds anyway. Had I gone on meds initially, it would have taken me out of the osteoporosis range. That is no longer possible. It's good to keep an open mind to all of the options we have and recognize when medication is in our own best interest.

I agree it is such an individual journey. Sending best wishes to all … I love the information on this site. In the short time I’ve been on it I learned so much.

Hello @guinivere, I merged your discussion with another about Doug Lucas and his YouTube channel and books - https://connect.mayoclinic.org/discussion/doug-lucas-and-algaecal-plus/.

Members like @windyshores and @michaellavacot have pointed out some potential red flags with Doug Lucas' affiliation or possible motives. When researching alternative medicines or supplements, especially in regards to osteoporosis, one must consider the motivations, expertise and financial incentives some presenters may be affiliated with.

@guinivere - have you been prescribed any medications or tried any? If so, how have you done or how are you doing?

I watch him regularly, I think he’s solid.

i was surprised to see him go from recommending g hydroxyapatite as as calcium to algaecal plus. so far he has not recommended strontium. and michael lavacot on this site has a very nice presentation regarding calcium. Just trying to make the best decisions

Hi Justin, I am waiting for my doctor at UW Epidemology to get back to me re lab tests. I also have all the materials ready to send to Dr McCormick for a consult.

What are the red flags/objections to Dr Lucas? I have watched several of his presentations on Utube & have found him impressive. Perhaps you could private message me?

Someone just sent me a video with Dr. Christopher Shuhart, a provider in Seattle. I am not able to share the link right now but someone might. It is not on YouTube. . To me, he was a model example of an MD giving information, as is Ben Leder.

Shuhart made the interesting point that some with severe osteoporosis may not fracture, and some with mild bone loss may fracture- it is complicated. He was more positive on the usefulness of Fosamax, than I am used to, for a first use, and very positive on the bone- builders. Very cautious about Boniva and Prolia.