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Has anyone improved bone density without meds?
I have a very problematic dental history and will continue to need additional root canals and implants. I also have Sjogren's Syndrome and want to avoid any drugs that cause rheumatic symptoms. Other issues in my health history make all of the meds risky for me. That said, I work out almost daily, lift weights, maintain a healthy diet, take all the recommended supplements, and get most of my calcium nutritionally. My endocrinologist wants me to take an infusion/injectable drug. I dread the side-effects, yet I'm afraid of fracturing, which hasn't happened over the many years I have had osteoporosis. That said, my numbers are getting worse (-3.2 spine, -3.1 hip). I need to do something more than I've been doing, and am at a loss. I need hope and solutions I can be at peace with. Thanks for any comments or suggestions!
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Like you, I wanted to avoid the pharmaceuticals. I have read through as much as I can on Susan Brown's website. I like her approach but didn't pay for any of what she offers as I am wary of anyone who hawks expensive products. Anyway, I exercise as much as I can (pilates + yoga + fast walking). No weighted vest as I am already heavy.
I found a vitamin supplement for a bit cheaper that closely resembles hers in most of the ingredients and dosages and have been taking it for the last 10 years. It's called Pure Synergy Bone Renewal and it's all plant-based nutrients. My last DEXA showed no change from the original scan in 2014 in the left femoral neck (-2.0), and a very slight improvement in L1-L4 from -2.8 to -2.5 (but it was a different machine because I moved). I did break my wrist a couple of years ago, which increased my FRAX risk to 20%. So I have no idea what difference, if any, it's making or what my scores would have been if I had done nothing.
My latest bloodwork shows some worrisome numbers on kidney function and now I'm wondering if I should continue to take the supplements. Have you all seen the recent recommendations from the U.S. Preventive Services task force showing the risks of taking Vitamin D and calcium? https://wapo.st/3BMtDki
Now I'm questioning whether I should continue on this path or what to do?? Would it be worth it to take Susan Brown's master class and then perhaps follow the dietary and exercise recommendations without the supplements?
@lanikai74 my reading of that article in the WaPo was that they found Vitamin D does not prevent falls. In my mind that is the silliest research focus I have ever seen. How would a vitamin prevent falling?
Granted the study goes into more but the initial description of the study is puzzling!
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2 ReactionsYes, that might seem silly, but an article by a journalist sometimes oversimplifies findings. As a retired researcher I like to go back to the original publication to look at the actual study. The conclusions of the report by U.S. Preventive Services actually looked at whether vitamin D, calcium, or combined supplementation can help prevent falls and fractures, not just falls.
Perhaps more relevant to this forum, the report also says "Importantly, this recommendation is not for people who are taking vitamin D or calcium for other medical reasons and does not include people diagnosed with osteoporosis, vitamin D deficiency, or those who have a medical condition that affects how they absorb vitamin D. Those individuals should follow guidance from their healthcare professionals on how to stay healthy."
Notwithstanding, I'm worried that taking supplements may be harming my kidneys for no particular benefit. I'd love to have a medical specialist in bone health weigh in.
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