Calcium Supplements for Bone Strength

Osteopenia, or lower-than-normal bone density, is frequently found in postmenopausal women but can affect men and women of all ages. Over the past few years, some questionable research suggested a connection between calcium supplements and atherosclerosis. But last November, Harvard researchers presented research showing no connection between calcium supplements and coronary artery calcification. If your doctor suggests calcium supplements for you, here’s some information:

For people who don’t drink milk, Hawaiian Spirulina tablets (a blue-green algae) may help. It actually contains 300 percent more calcium than whole milk, plus other minerals. Remember, minerals like calcium are best absorbed when taken in combination with other minerals like strontium, magnesium, and vitamin D.

Other important factors in bone health include adequate levels of vitamin K2 which is involved in clotting. And strontium. It has a twofold effect on osteoporosis meaning it prevents bone breakdown while also stimulating new bone growth.

Medications only work one side of that equation. A 2004 study in New England Journal of Medicine concluded that strontium reduces risk of non-vertebral fractures by 41 percent over three years, and increases bone mineral density by about 14 percent. Eliminated processed and refined foods is a must.