Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis, as defined by Webster's Dictionary is "Porous bones." Further, "It is a condition that is characterized by decrease in bone mass with a decreased bone density and enlargement of bone spaces producing porosity and fragility and that results from disturbance of nutrition and mineral metabolism"

Osteoporosis drastically increases the risk of broken hips, ribs, pelvis and other weakened bones, not to mention the stooped posture associated with the elderly. 

Building strong bones, especially before the age of 30, can be the best defense against developing osteoporosis, and a healthy lifestyle can be critically important for keeping bones strong.

Osteoporosis is largely preventable for most people. There are several steps you can take to prevent and possibly slow osteoporosis. Prevention of this disease is very important because, while there are treatments for osteoporosis, there is currently no cure. You need a four step program consisting of:

• A balanced diet rich in calcium and vitamin D

• Weight-bearing exercise

• A healthy lifestyle with no smoking and limited alcohol intake

• Bone density testing and medications when appropriate

Drugs Are Not Enough

Calcium and vitamin D supplements are an integral part of all treatments for osteoporosis. Everyone should make sure they get enough of these two nutrients, but especially women and others at risk for osteoporosis. By age 65 some women have lost up to 1/2 of their bone mass. Attention to diet and exercise are important not only for treatment, but also for prevention.

Calcium

Calcium is needed for the heart, muscles and nerves to function properly and for blood to clot. Inadequate calcium is thought to contribute to the development of osteoporosis. National nutrition surveys have shown that many women and young girls consume less than half the amount of calcium recommended to grow and maintain healthy bones.

Depending on your age, an appropriate calcium intake falls between 1000 and 1500 mg a day. If you have difficulty getting enough calcium from the foods you eat, you may take a calcium supplement to make up the difference.

Very important is the amount of calcium you take at a time and how you take it. Never take calcium with Iron, as they inhibit the absorption of each other. Also if you take the full recommended daily allowance of calcium at one time, your body will have a problem absorbing it. Some scientists and nutritionists recommend taking no more than 500 mg of calcium at a time, and spacing out calcium intake several times a day.

It's not just Calcium

While calcium intake is critical, and those who need it the most--younger women and girls--don't get enough. It is a fact that proper calcium intake can build strong dense bones and teeth. But, bone mass peaks by around age 30, then bone breakdown outpaces formation, and density declines. But calcium alone can't build bone. Without vitamin D, calcium isn't sufficiently absorbed.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is needed for the body to absorb calcium. Without enough vitamin D, you will be unable to absorb calcium from the foods you eat, and your body will have to take calcium from your bones. Vitamin D comes from two sources: through the skin following direct exposure to sunlight and from the diet. Experts recommend a daily intake between 400 and 800 IU per day.

Exercise

Exercise is also important to good bone health. You should exercise regularly in childhood and adolescence. Weight-bearing exercises such as walking, dancing, jogging, stair-climbing, racquet sports and hiking are generally recommended. We recommend Tai-Chi from a qualified instructor. It is great for the posture, limbers up your muscles, relaxes the mind, and builds energy not to mention bone. If you have been sedentary most of your adult life, be sure to check with your healthcare provider before beginning any exercise program.

New Calcium Supplement

There is a new product called Calsense™. It is a delicious calcium supplement.One serving (appx the size of a 1/4 tea spoon) provides a balance of 351 mg of calcium, 100 IU of Vitamin D, and 100 mg of magnesium. It is an easily digestible form of calcium (A powder that mixes into hot or warm liquids). And best of all it comes in 5 delicious flavors:

• Chocolate Bliss

• Vanilla Rapture

• Hazelnut

• Cinnamon Stick

• Heavenly Cream

It is FREE of Fat; FREE of sugar and carbohydrates; FREE of Calories; FREE of Dairy. It is perfect for diabetics, dieters, and everyone who enjoys great taste.

****IMPORTANT****

Currently we are out of stock on all flavors of Calsense we are switching around the formula to make it better using an instant dissolve calcium. We have run into some production and taste challenges and are working as hard as we can to get them resolved.

Please bookmark this page and check back often.

Thank you for your patience.

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