Anyone who knows me, knows that one of my passions, second only to natural health, is history. So this past weekend while reading about the Roman Empire I came across a very sensible quote from the Roman philosopher Seneca. He wrote:
“We are more often frightened than hurt, and we suffer more from imagination than from reality”
When it relates to the fear of osteoporosis and osteopenia these are true words of wisdom.
Here’s why: while you may have been diagnosed with osteoporosis or osteopenia, statistics show that regardless of bone density, you will most likely never break a bone. In fact, studies show that over 85% of women turning 50 years old today will never have a hip fracture, regardless of their bone density.
Unfortunately, once the diagnosis is there, many react with fear and foresee a bleak and doomed future for their bone health and well-being… and you may be one of them…
Let me ask you two simple questions that will put this fear into perspective
Question #1: What is the biggest risk of osteoporosis and osteopenia?
Of course the answer is breaking bones and then losing your mobility and lifestyle that you enjoy.
Question #2: How does someone break a bone?
Easy… One would have to fall and the impact would cause the bone to fracture.
Now common sense would dictate that if we take steps that minimize our chances of falling we won’t be victims of osteoporosis and osteopenia.
So here are some of my suggestions that will help you avoid fractures the smart way:
Tip #1: Improve your balance and strength
When you stay fit and active you’ll maintain sharp reflexes and good muscle tone, both necessary to prevent falls.
Tip #2: Always wear comfortable shoes
Ladies, stay away from very high and skinny heels. Also, and this applies to everyone, avoid sneakers with deep treads that can trip you up.
Tip #3: Make sure you know how the medicines you’re taking may affect you
Several drugs such as sleeping pills or muscle relaxants, and even some heart medicines, can cause dizziness and lack of coordination.
Tip #4: Don’t mix meds
If you take prescription medications, let your doctors know which medicines you’re taking, to avoid dangerous “cocktails” that have unforeseen side-effects.
Tip #5: Lighten up
Brighten up your home. Use nightlights in your bedroom, bathroom and hallways so you don’t have to turn on the light switch in the middle of the night.
Tip #6: Keep rooms free of clutter
Always use a designated spot for your slippers and shoes, to avoid tripping on them. Also, keep electrical cables off the floor.
Tip #7:Get enough sleep
Studies have shown that if you lack sleep it will have a similar effect on your reflexes as being drunk.
By following these 7 simple tips, you can greatly decrease your chances of falling and breaking a bone.
These precautions along with the Save Our Bones Program can lead you to a happy and fracture-free future.
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January 27, 2012
I’ve noticed that a lot of these poor women are writing to you via this section, but I don’t see any replies to them from you. Some of them sound really desperate and need help, particularly when they address you personally. You can’t answer everyone’s questions, I realize. However, you should take the time to make more comments along the way that include women with similar situations. Otherwise, it doesn’t make much sense to have this section if all it is, is a sounding board. Commiseration is fine, as they say, misery loves company. But you should be offering real help outside of the “one-size-fits-all” type of connection. We are all individuals.
February 1, 2012
Is there a support group of followers of the Save Our Bones community in the Oklahoma City area? It would make life so much easier (and happier) if I knew of others that were in the same boat as I am. Thank you.
January 15, 2012
Thank you for all your research. What you shared about blood thinners was new to me…Thank you!! There are so many gems in all that you share with us…THANK YOU!! Velma S.
November 26, 2011
HI VIVAN
I LIKE TO ORDER YOUR NEW BOOK BUT I DONT KNOWN HOW TO ORDER PLS EMAIL ME
HOW TO ORDER IWAS TOLD FROM MILITARY BASE HOSPITAL I HAVE OSTEOPOROSIS AND
WANT TO GIVE ME A SHOT RECLAST I REFUSE AFTER READ YOUR ADVACE THE SIDE DEFFECT RIGHT NOW IAM ONLY TAKING VITAMIN D AND CALCIUM AND VITAMIN B 12 AND MORE OTHER VITAMINS AND DOING ALOTS OF WAKING PLS HELP ME WHAT KIND OF
MED I NEED I AM 71 YRS OLD AND VERY ACTIVE AND STILL WORKING AS A CAREGIVER
FOR DISSABLES PEOPLE THANKS GOOD DAY
LIZA BROWN
August 22, 2011
Received your book this morning—
Am looking forward to reading it later. Thank you for writing it. All the best, Ida
July 14, 2011
My fingernails seem to go in cycles of growing and being strong and then breaking or and being soft. Does that indicate my bone health in any way or is it environmental from doing dishes, working in garden, etc. I am 61 years old.I follow a healthy diet and exercise but have Celiac.
July 13, 2011
I have severe osteoporosis. A very few exercises are even permitted. Severe GI problems inhibit the benefits of good nutrition and supplementation.
I am told I must take Boniva injection (3 month type) followed by one month off and then 8 months of Forteo daily injections – then testing to see if the process of bone loss has been halted. I have a left hip in real danger – even of pathological fracture. My life is totally limited and fear of disabling fracture is ever present.
What, if anything, does your program have to offer me?
July 11, 2011
Great advice! I follow all of it except I don’t sleep well and wake up not feeling refreshed. Sleep deprivation is a huge problem for many people.
May 25, 2011
Hi Vivian Thank you so much for all the info. you give me everyday I allways share it with my Mom she has osteoporosis
May 24, 2011
Dear Vivian
I have your SaveOurBones programme book, thank you, and I am trying to follow the course. I find it hard to give up 1 espresso coffee and 1 capuccino in the mornings. How bad is that? Does it go against the programme? Ialways have a few strawberries afterwards to compensate for the acidic of coffee and capuccino. Please any advise? Thanks for the great work!
May 25, 2011
An espresso and a capuccino might be a bit much, Giovanna, but I actually wrote a blog post that shows how you can continue to enjoy your coffee: http://saveourbones.com/drink-this-not-that-for-better-bone-health/. Nothing’s completely off limits on The Save Our Bones Program — it’s all about balance!
April 28, 2011
I was diagnosed with rheumatoid arthritis 4 years ago – now in remission for over a year – and wondered if there is any connection with that and osteoporosis which I have been told I have.
May 20, 2011
I recently read that methotrexate & prednisone thin the bones. I didn’t know this when I was given them by my rheumatologist. But, I also read eating apples with the skin prevents bone loss and red vegetables like watermelon, apricots, pink grapefruit, tomatoes, guava, papaya increase osteoblasts by alkalizing the blood (I believe is how that was worded).Also, blackberries,canteloupe, cherries, grapes, pears, broccoli, cabbage, celery, onions and parsley. Also, they recommended not exercising excessively because the body releases acid residue that is stored in tissues. I hope this helps you, I had to do alot of reading to find this out.
April 18, 2011
Recently diagnosed with osteoporosis in lumbar 3&4 and hip. I’ve exercised 5 days a week for 16 years including weight lifting. I need to know now what exercises I should avoid. I’ve heard no crunches and twisting of the spine. What ab exercises can I do? Suggestions?
April 19, 2011
I’d like to know the answer to the obove question too. My bone density is 3.1 and 2.9 in hips (also have it in the lower spine although that is not scored). Can these scores be lowered by diet and weightbearing exercises? How MUCH exercise?
March 1, 2011
Please change my email address from slipsett@yahoo.ca to slipsett40@ymail.com.
many thanks,
I am a huge fan…
January 19, 2011
Please advise how to order book without putting credit card information on the computer. KLM
November 29, 2010
Vivian–was wondering when your recipies will be ready —I can use some help in deciding what I should eat !!
November 30, 2010
Hi Kathie,
I’m just putting the finishing touches on my cookbook, and it should be out early next year.
October 16, 2011
I sure hope that when your cookbook is out you will send everyone an email to let us know. I am so looking forward to it. thanks
March 28, 2011
Hello Vivian, I am here in Cancun on vacation for 2 more weeks, But I am finding that here much of their food do not fit in with my new way of eating!!, I am getting in a LOT of walking, but my ankles are swollen. I use to Just LOVE THEIR PAN DULCE….(Sweet Breads), But I think i’m get acid from them. It is the salt in their food?? Can you give me any suggestions on what to eat here? Thank you so much for any advise. Edna
October 30, 2010
Good advice, Vivian. It’s a matter of taking
sensible precautions to avoid falling, and generally looking after onself. Regular exercise (i.e.
simply walking or jogging for a few miles each
day) keeps one fit and provides sustained practice in keeping one’s balance.
October 27, 2010
Vivian I am so anxious for you to list what supplements for us to buy because I really don,t know what I,m doing !!You said take vitimin k2 because it has ”Natto” in it and I do take a circulation natural vitimin called ”The circulation Solution ” that has 100 mlg. of natto in it . I can,t take both that and k2 because it would thin my blood too much . Help !!!!Any answer about this would be of so much help and peace of mind .
Thank you
October 26, 2010
I have your book and trying to use it. I felt soo alone with all these dismal test results. I was planning my funeral,I hurt soo bad. I have made a lot of changes but am not there all the way. I do feel soo much better reading and connecting with others that are having the same problems. I cried everyday and could not smile but I quit crying and I even found myself smiling again. Thank you.
October 12, 2010
Please remove my name from your e-mail listing.
No longer available at this address.
October 12, 2010
No doctor or nurse ever told me that eating too much protein would cause me to lose calcium.
October 6, 2010
Hello Vivian, I enjoyed reading your articles.
Is it okay to drink organic milk? Thanks.
October 3, 2010
no more e-mails please
October 3, 2010
Please do not e-mail anymore, not interested.
September 25, 2010
Thank you all, I find the information all very interesting.Great learning for me,and many other people also I,m sure.
September 18, 2010
I do not have Osteoporosis, however, my mom at 83 does. She is active
and has been taking Fosamax for almost 5 years. My nutritionist warned me 2 years ago about studies that suggested problems after the 5th year.
Her doctor said he will consider taking her off at the end of 5 years.
She had terrile side effects: headaches, and, as I recall, she had a terrible rash all over her body that zapped the energy out of her for 6 months. She did not go out to the senior club; she said she thought she was dying. She also went on a summer vacation to Disneyworld with the grandkids and had a spontaneous abscess that blew up her
cheek and required emergency attention in Fla. Now having read the warnings which have recently come about, I attribute all of these subsequent problems to Fosomax. IT IS POISON!
I am going to follow the 80/20 rule as well as increase my exercise from 30 to 45 min per day. I am going to do some strength training,
and improve posture with balance and weight exercises. I do some light yoga, but I will expand my repertoire.
January 27, 2012
Yes, Fosomax and all the other evil drugs are poison. In fact, I always refer to all prescription drugs as poison. It’s a well-known fact that the Big Pharmacies know quite well that they are killing people with their poisons, and only take them off the market if they feel they are being threatened with a lawsuit. Otherwise, they don’t do anything except continue to promote their poisons in order to make billions of dollars at the expense of people’s lives and well being. Be smart and go the natural route. There is a natural alternative for just about every ill known to mankind, even cancer, heart and circulatory problems, alzheimers and diabetes, just to name a few. The drug Lords know this too, and they are trying very hard to limit our access to supplements and health information because they can’t patent these natural wonders, and would not make dime one on them. Sad, but true.
October 20, 2010
I’m 59. was a ballet dancer, ice skater, love horseback riding… running and playing my whole life..you get the idea.
Have had 4 knee surgeries. In 2005. I had a injury. I was lifting at work. Plus being a single mom. I did everything.
Went to Barrow Neurology Inst. Had cervical fusion in 3-4. The Lumbar in non operable. I go to PT for the past 4 years. I have been diagnosed with osteoparosis. I was on Actenol ..but went off. I eat well and try to walk a lot. I take Cal and Vit D and Magnesium. What should I do more of???? Advise please…I’d like to hear form experts and all women..opinions and all.
September 10, 2010
Can strontium supplements help osteoporous? Also Vitamin K .
September 13, 2010
i have been taking strontium and so did my sister until her doctor
told her to stop. in germany strontium is out.
my doctor does not know any reasons for the recall.
January 27, 2012
Strontium does make the bones strong and dense, but it also dries them out and makes them more susceptible to fracture. Also, many women take both strontium and calcium and that’s a mistake because they cancel each other out. So what it boils down to, is you’re damned if you do and damned if you don’t. So Vivian has the right idea. Go the natural route and follow her suggestions to build bone density without taking substances that can prove to be harmful in the long run. I firmly believe that’s God’s intention also.
September 2, 2010
Dear Vivian,
I would like to order the book:
Save our bones program,but would rather want to pay by cheque
( in advance, if you like)
How can I do this from Australia?
I am 81 and am not very familiar
with the computer.
Yours truly, Johanna.
April 21, 2011
Send me info. on how to order your book on incresing bone density..Thanks
I appreciate your fine work and info. that you share.
August 20, 2010
Regarding the comfortable shoes: also stay away from flip-flops and open heel sandals. They don’t give you the support you need to regain your balance when (if) you stumble.
October 9, 2010
You are so right — I have fallen several times, and most of those times I was wearing very well made and comfortable sandals, that I considered quite safe — until the heel dropped down when going up a curb and tripped me! You would think that I would learn after that! I try and wear tennis shoes most times, but still insist on going out walking in sandals — pretty dumb, I must admit.
August 18, 2010
Hello;
I love the information and am always searching for natural ways to build bone. However, I have developed scoliosis after turning 55 (now 65) and the bones of my spine are now resting on each other at one end while the other is wide open. they have also twisted and turned and I’ve developed spondylosis along with lower spine osteoporosis. Any bouncing is not good for me. Does anyone know of something that I could do to also correct the bending, twisting,spondylosis and osteoporosis of my spine in a natural way?
Thanks,
Jackie
August 20, 2010
I can identify with that. I have a similar problem, probably started in childhood when I had mild case of polio. I can see that my bellly button is not in the middle, but way off on my right side. Have had five compression fractures in the past five years. But they were fixwed by a radiologist who squirted a cement-like substance in them. I don’t know of a permanent solution to this problem. Maybe there is one if you’re still young. I’m already 82, don’t take any of the drugs, walk with a walker and just am careful. Hope to read more about this in these blogs.
August 16, 2010
Walking for 17 years, refuse to take drugs, eat and take calcium, but i still got mothers bones, who would know!
But I haven’t broken any bones, knock on wood!
August 6, 2010
Thank you very much for this much needed Informaton it is sooooo true i saffer so much morefrom Imagnitation then from pain
Thank You Vivian for all the Support you give
Karin
July 26, 2010
With regard to leaving or putting on bedroom lights at night, this is not feasible, if I were to put on a light it would wake my husband up, and similarly if he were to do likewise it would wake me up.
July 15, 2010
Received my copy of “save our bones” today. I am small boned, fair
,thin and athletic and 69 years old. I have been lifting weights, running 5-7 miles every other day, doing yoga and love to hike for many years and still after my last bone scan have osteoporosis! I take multiple vitamins and the only drug is Synthroid as I had half of my thyroid removed as it turned out for nothing!! Any way, water under the bridge. Thanks to you Vivian I am seeking even further info to find out what else I can do to keep my bones healthy and strong starting with your program. My mother has osteoporosis and is 90 and nothing broken, knock on wood! My doctor also tried to get me to take Reclast but after reading some of your information and hearing about others experience I said “no”. So here we all are hopefully making a difference for others and ourselves by taking control of our bodies (with help) to solve issues in a healthy manner.
July 9, 2010
i have been diagnoised with it i have 2 slipped discs in my back and am on morphine sulphate oramorph and diazapam and amertrytaline i take oestio tablets i do your exercises im 42 my daughter is 22 she has it in her hps we just never are out of pain what else can i do?
July 4, 2010
I have been taking Fosomax for 3 or more years, but hearing of all the ugly side effects, decided to quit, may 1st. I do not feel any different at this point but hope the end result will be better thanks Helene
June 25, 2010
HOW OFTEN CAN WE EAT A MEAL OF 80-20? Can we have chocolate?
June 24, 2010
Thank you Vivian for your fall prevention tips – some very wise ideas. Another thing that I have done in my home is to use non-slip mats, especially on smooth or ‘wet’ surfaces. Of course, this might be obvious, but something that some people might not know is that you can buy special non-slip material for putting under mats you already have, if need. I got mine from a warehouse department store, but you may also be able to get it at some hardware stores. Helen
June 22, 2010
I’ve gone off Actonel and am doing K,Strontium, boron, calcium and magnesium. But I am in a wheelchair and can’t weight-bear anymore. Bone density continues to decline. What can I do if I can’t do weight-bearing exercise? Help!!
June 22, 2010
thanks for your reassurance today. i do have fears eg medicines and fractures!!
June 10, 2010
You Are Right Vivian. People Should Take All The Steps To See That They Live A Long, Safe, And Healthy Life.
June 8, 2010
I ordered a book on May 20, 2010 and other info by check and to date I have not received it. How long will it take?
Bev
May 18, 2010
Hi Vivan, I have not spoked yet but maybe I’ll get lucky sometime. I have your book and have been reading it. I have applied as best I can of late. I think I mention once before in an e-mail that I went off med.Foxamacs before I heard about your book. My body was screaming at me long before the book,the side effects with that drugs was not good, however I have had some from coming off. However that is not stopping me. I also have depresstion along with ostero. I am dealing with that separatly. I an 75yrs. old. I lift weights and take vitamins and minerals,good cal.mag.etc.D3, and go for walks. Trying to get my emotions some professional attention for the first time. The reason why I am mentioning this is because I think all is intertwained to a positive approach to dealing with this condition we have. So glad it is not a desease as you have proclaimed. Thank you for your info. and time
April 29, 2010
My bones are so bad that I am getting compression fractures in my back and my rib cage hurts and feels so tender. I have fallen twice on my right ribs and broken there so now I feel like it keeps on over and over. For years I have hurt right under my right rib cage after I eat. After suffering so much i finally let them take my gallbladder out, but it didn’t help. Since my fractures, I feel crushed under my whole rib cage and my abdoman sticks out so there is a crease there and it is very hard to breath. Besides having severe osteoporosis (the Dr. says that he can hardly see any calcium in my bones and that he can hardly see any difference between my bones and my other tissue) I have severe sleep apnea. This is a real trial also.
I ordered your program so am anxious to talk with you.
Back in 1995 I did start to take Fosamax, but I hate to take medicine so after a few weeks or months I did not take it.
I didn’t take all the other meds the Dr. wanted me to take for bones and hormones.
About two years ago I finally started on that other bone drug, but this past month I wanted to see how I would feel by not taking it. On the first of may I am suppose to take it (monthly) and I am scared to take it and scared not to.
Is there any hope for me?
Thank you, Shirley
April 29, 2010
Hi Vivian,
My mother , at the age of 90 had 8 fractures. She was bed ridden in her final years and passed away in 95. Where as I am 62 and realized the seriousness of this disease very lately.
These simple tips are of great help to tackle the problems with out the physician’s help.
Thank you for your tips
April 26, 2010
I have osteopenia and GERD, and the meds for one condition worsen the other condition. I would like to believe that Vivian Goldsmith has the answers for osteopenia, but I need hard scientific evidence to convince me. Is it available?
April 22, 2010
I was on Prednison for 2 years, and tried to go off of them. My Dr. said to decrease to 2 then 1 then 0. I tried but was in so much pain all night.
Now I’m taking 2 a day. I was put on Fosamax because the Bone Density showed I have Osteopenia. I took Fosamax but did not like the side effects so I quit. I read that it builds the bone, but then causes the bone to become brittle and then break. No sense to that drug. I won’t take it again.
I plan to do physio therapy and walk, and pray that I will get off Prednison. Nancy
April 20, 2010
How long should it take for the program to arrive by post to Australia?
April 20, 2010
I have been off Fosamax for several years but
have results of the side affects. My bone density test was not good and the Dr. recommended Forteo. I read the side effects and
dediced that there had to be other options.
Nutrition and exercise seemed more sensible for
me. Exercise at this time is walking a mile each day with the addition of a weighted vest with a gradual increase in amount of weight and
time of wearing. I am interested in additional
exercises that will benefit my exercise program.
Madelyn Guthrie
May 18, 2010
Yoga is another option along that is stress relieving and good for the absoption of calcium and etc.
April 14, 2010
I have been taking Fosamax but was told today that Actonel has another ingredient that is not as harmful as the alendronate sodium 70mg tablets. Is this true? I appreciate your feedback. Thanks. Vivian Mc
June 22, 2010
If you have read the website of Vivan’s she does not believe in prescription drugs. I also don’t agree on taking drugs and that is why I am thankful I have found this website. I ordered the book. I would never take drugs when you can change bone density around the healthy way that being supplementing your diet with vitamins its all about living healthy.
April 11, 2010
I was feeling very hopeful about your program. However, after reading the comment section I need to know if your program is a sure fire way to increase bone density. It appears that for some they are breaking bones regardless. Can you please explain or at least share your thoughts. PS_ since I have been using the 80/20 I no longer have a need to take Zantac for heartburn. Every now and again if I eat too much asidiying foods I take a Tum. Also when I do eat 80/20 I feel better in general. Thanks Vivian!
June 22, 2010
Vivian is not God, she cannot predict your future. Prescription drugs cause more harm. Do your research and don’t expect others to fix your problems. There are no guarantees in life. You don’t wait until your body is in such bad shape to make the change. You do research and take the more natural approach. To put your health in bone density drugs is a bad choice but each to their own.
April 11, 2010
I am totally confused now at this stage and dont know which way to go . My mom had oesteoporosis and fractured her hip and immediately after her hip operation suffered a stroke and thereafter downhill. I was told a stroke was common after hip operation can you tell me why as it has since been proven to me .