Is there a supplement that really works?
I was diagnosed 6 years ago with osteoporosis. I thought I was doing everything possible to build bone density but my latest bone density showed it got worse by 6%. I am taking a supplement called ‘bone-up’ which is supposed to be natural and has StimuCal. I’m wondering if there are better supplements out there that really help? Has anyone seen positive bone density results? If so, I would love to know what you are taking and doing. By the way, I’m 65, and try to be fairly active. Thank you.
Interested in more discussions like this? Go to the Osteoporosis & Bone Health Support Group.
Do you have an endocrinologist? Who is helping you work through the best path to help with osteoporosis treatment? This is a great forum for support and there is so much great information here. You must be very worried right now and it sounds as though you have chosen a non medication route but are struggling. You are not alone.
For information on supplements I would suggest "Great Bones" and/or a consultation with Dr. Keith McCormick. He also sells OsteoNaturals supplements including collagen. He does initial consultations in person or by phone for $350 I believe, and 15 minutes by phone thereafter for $85.
I believe that after menopause, bone density loss is inevitable. For osteopenia and mild osteoporosis, using holistic methods is a valiant effort and some say they have had some success. But many find that they need meds at some point (preferably anabolics first).
Lani Simpson, who was a long time proponent of natural methods, said in a masterclass in 2021 that she was going on meds. Keith McCormick, author of both "A Holistic Approach to Osteoporosis" and the more recent "Great Bones," did Forteo and Fosamax for his own osteoporosis in the past.
Hoping you can still go natural. Good luck!
Welcome @debbik you have come to the right place for support. I was very surprised 6 months ago when I boot my dexa scan that my bone density had improved. In 2019 my doctor wanted me to have infusion drugs, then the pandemic came which meant less chair availability and I was rightfully squeezed out to make room for chemo patients. I had only two and my bone density did not improve, then I changed my habits and supplements. I now take natural bounty calcium with D 1200, every other day and one natural bounty D3 a week. These are both a gelcap.
I also walk almost every day, because the bone Doctor from Mayo that saw my husband told us that was the best thing to build bone. The physical impact signals your body to build bone. I was surprised that my done density had actually gone up. Yippee.
Do you have a doctor you can discuss this with? Are you able to get out and walk a bit?
Thank you so much for writing and sharing your information. I do have a Dr. she pretty much told me to take calcium and D, do strength training exercises and eat healthy. After several years of doing this, I thought I was doing a good job, had the not so good results. So now I’m really reading and doing everything I can. I do walk a few times a week. Noted much in cold weather, and recently asked about a weighted vest which I will be purchasing soon. I’m also reading so much about food and finding there are foods that actually block calcium absorption… one being spinach which I have been eating a lot of. It’s so encouraging to hear you are having good results. I will look into your calcium supplements for sure! Thank you!
Thank you for this information. I will look into this. I am on the medication route but they are not doing anything…
@debbik have you been on Forteo, Tymlos or Evenity to build bone ? Not suggesting anything but maybe ask your doctor if a bone builder (the three mentioned) vs anti-resorptive (Prolia, Fosamax, Reclast) would help more. Of course exercise and supplements are crucial too!
I was told by my doctor that calcium supplements may increase heart attack risk in women. Food sources better. I do take topical estrogen, wish I had started it earlier for bone health, and I am behind the 8 ball because I have hyperthyroidism, even though I take medication to control the hyperthyroidism, I was shocked how severe my osteoporosis was on bone scan. Am going to PT, because I am afraid if I don't do strength training carefully prescribed, I could fracture.
Also look into adding K2. It helps D3.
Listen to Dr. Keith McCormick and get his latest book
https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/critically-speaking/id1463016517?i=1000676606414
@windyshores Since you're so knowledgeable on these topics, if I can ask... I see the OsteoNaturals supplements (like many of the bone building supplements) includes boron. However boron is listed on many reputable sites saying it may act like or promote estrogen. Then again a few studies mention boron as good for preventing breast cancer. Since I'm on an AI, I'm concerned if it will counter the AI. I've asked my doctors about this but none seem to have a good answer. Have you found anything on this issue in your research?