@lilac2025
Hello Lilac,

Thank you for your reply. No worries, It was a great read and really spoke to me. My apologies, I should have used your handle and/or read the ‘how to’ instructions…I tend to dive in and figure things out on my own.

Yes, the REMS score was encouraging so plan complete every 6-12 months. My Dr advised DEXAs are only allowed every 5 years in Canada. What, I thought! Upon further investigation discovered those experiencing fractures and/or bone density below normal it’s every 3 years. Which is still too long. I wish to know my progress at least every 12 months. I’m happy to maintain my numbers ~ but would love to improve.

I hear you on access to specialist and tests. I’ve watched a few videos presented by orthopedic surgeons and pharmacists where links to CTX P1NP studies are often shared. I’m not sure if an orthopedic surgeon is accessible in Canada w/o a fracture or planned surgery. When first diagnosed, I ask my doctor what specialist I could meet with, orthopedic surgeons and/or endocrinologists. Still working her…

The endocrinologist recommended avoiding estrogen unless I’d been on it since menopause due to blood clot risk. But, I heard of studies where it was questioned or disproven so need to do more research. She shared some positive news, I thought my spine numbers suggested high risk of fracture, but she said I’m only moderate risk [she does not support the REMS test but results indicated my bone quality is not bad ~ so that’s a bonus]. She asked what steps I’ve taken. I shared I do planks, pushups and wall squats, and restarting upper body and lower body workouts 2-3 x week [fell off during covid]. She said I’m good w/o drugs or hormones if I keep up the calcium and the w/o’s. She wanted me on milk but I stated I reach 1200mg Calcium w greek yogurt, greens, nuts and seeds [basil seeds are really high].

Recently, I learned of the book Great Bones by Keith McCormick thanks so a post in this community. I look forward to reading about his journey to wellness with Osteoporosis. One of his sites list all the tests he suggests. I’m not sure if it’s ok to share links here so I would send you a private message with names of the doctors and links. Just let me know or msg me here. Keith McCormick is quite easy to find on line.

My physiotherapist and I discussed testing strength improvement in 6-12 months. If I’m getting stronger the bones are in a better place so I think strength testing is a good way to go. 



I’m no expert on plant based vs animal based but I learned from Dr Doug (The Dr Doug Show), we need 2.5mg of the Amino Acid Leucine to build muscles. I still need to do my research but I make sure to hit that daily. It’s easier and less work with animal proteins. Most days I’m close w/o chicken, eggs or cheese so just ingest Pea Protein powder to reach that number.

Have a great week! If you are in the USA Happy 4th of July!