What's the evidence on Calcium and Vitamin D for bone density?
A recent bone density test came back in the low average range for my age. My OBGYN recommended calcium and vitamin D. I checked with a family member who is a pharmacist, and she says that the benefits of calcium supplements are not clear cut. Regarding vitamin D, I’m in the sunbelt, and spend at least 2 hours per day outdoors during 8 to 9 months a year (early morning, or evening, sun screen between 10 AM and 5 PM if applicable for pool, beach, for example). I’m sure many people on this forum have done their own research regarding the benefits of calcium pills, and I would love to hear what the current consensus is. I exercise regularly, so my bones get a workout from the muscles pulling on them, if that makes a difference. I think the data I was given is that statistically I have an 8% chance of a hip fracture in the next decade, based on the test results.
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Hello and thank you for providing the information I asked you about. And thanks for the pep talk. I appreciated your sharing about your husband and so glad he found a doctor to help him live a longer life with you.
For what it's worth, since there's divided opinion on taking calcium and whether it builds up in arteries, I've been taking a calcium/vitaminD3/vitaminK2 formula with the usual suspect trace minerals for nearly 7 years now. In an abundance of caution, my cardiologist ordered an Agotsten Calcium Score and echocardiogram and both were excellent. As the cardiologistn is female and also taking a similar supplement, while admitting that science is still looking at calcium supplements and arterial effects if any, she was happy to see no change as I am alas also nearly 7 years older too.
good for you in getting these tests and doing well. Sounds like you have a good knowledgeable clinician on your side.
Hello,
My name is Karen and I’m recently diagnosed with osteoporosis. I am completely confused with what to do. My Dr wants me to take Fosomax but reading all the side effects it’s scary. Are you just taking vit and minerals and w.b exc. I am taking algae cal plus for cal and othe minerals and d but I will not take the strontium citrate as there are crazy opinions on it.
I’m just not going to rush into taking a strong prescription. It’s the 70 mg once a week pill
Thank you,
Karen
Thanks for the info. Makes me feel better about my calcium intake
@parrotqueen Hi Karen Don't take the fosemax my girlfriend lost half har jaw.I am only on vitamins Bit D ,calcium , magnesium and get dexascan 2x a year your on the right stuff I eat a lot of greens in smoothie Kale and rest of greens
When I get normal blood work I have to ask for vit D to be included. ( it is not
Covered by my insurance) Also, Although I read vitamin k2 is hard to test for, you might ask your endocrinologist about adding the supplement k2 m7 daily. I hope the
Endocrinologist is helpful, It’s all very confusing.
@sc614 , my doc doesn’t even test for vitamin k and recommended Seeking Health brand vitamin D 3+vit k2.
I've been on Prolia for the last 2 yrs. (twice a year). Now I have to undergo a dental surgical procedure and am worried about any adverse side effects. Any information will be appreciated.
@joram just today look at @kristie2 response under “dental implants” she outlines CTX testing values that can be used as a helpful guide in thinking about dental surgery!!!! Good luck!!!