'Vivian Answers Day' #5 - Save Our Bones

Question & Answer #1

My back feels as though I have muscle strain upper, middle and lower. Is this typical of osteoporosis or is it possible I am over working my back muscles with exercise, painting rooms in the house, lifting grand children, etc?

-Suzanne K.

Dear Suzanne,

I hope your back has improved. It is not typical of osteoporosis to have back muscles strained and/or hurting. However most osteoporosis drugs can cause muscle and joint aches, but you did not specify in your question whether you are currently taking any osteoporosis drugs.

You might want to check with a physical therapist or chiropractor to insure that it is not a postural issue that could get worse. Also, keep in mind that the abdominal muscles support the back, so it is important to keep them strong.

Here's to your pain-free future,

Question & Answer #2

How often can we eat and is chocolate allowed?

-Joyce S.

Dear Joyce,

Delicious, decadent chocolate is chock-full of bone-healthy polyphenols. Unfortunately, it has an acid pH, so while you can most certainly eat it (try to get the dark chocolate), you should maintain the proper balance with other alkalizing treats such as dried fruits, almonds, yogurt, and many more that are listed in the Osteoporosis Reversal Program.

By the way, the same applies to all acid forming foods, and that's the beauty of the Osteoporosis Reversal Program. Unlike many “diets”, no foods or drinks are “banned”, so you don't have to give up your favorite snacks and/or foods.

Enjoy!

Question & Answer #3

Dear Vivian,

What is your opinion of taking Evista, or another type of estrogen if one has had a hysterectomy? I love your newsletter! thank you.

-Anne Kerr

Dear Anne,

I don't recommend any kind of hormone supplementation or taking Evista to reverse osteoporosis. Also known by its generic name, raloxifene hydrochloride is a selective estrogen receptor modulator (SERM). As such, it is supposed to have the selective ability to act like estrogen in some tissues but not in others.

While Evista is reportedly easier on patients' digestive systems than bisphosphonates, this drug has its own list of adverse side-effects. It can cause an increased risk of both venous thromboembolism (VTE; deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, and retinal vein thrombosis) commonly known as blood clots, and stroke, especially in women at high risk of having a heart attack. Besides the very serious combo of side-effects, hot flashes are commonly reported by women taking Evista.

Always seek natural health solutions,

Question & Answer #4

Hello Vivan – Thank you for the information you give. I have read lately – some articles about Vitmain K2 and how important it is in helping the body absorb calcium and getting it to the right places ( I think that is what they said ). Could you comment on Vitamin K2 and how important you may think it is regarding bone health and what the natural food sources are for it? Also – is there a test to measure Vit. K2 in your body like the Vit. D test ? Thank you and have a blessed day !

-Evans

Dear Evans,

You might have missed my blog post titled “Vitamin K: Your Osteoporosis Knight in Shining Armor”. In it I answer all your questions. Check it out.

Keep learning!

Question & Answer #5

Hi Vivian!

I bought some of your materials and was wondering if you have a weekly menu in your new book? There are some recipes in the materials that I purchase from you.

I was diagnosed with celiac disease which presented as osteoporosis about a year and a half ago. My bones are about 10 – 15 yrs older than they should be. I am 55 yrs. old.

I have been exercising and eating differently.

-Connie M.

Dear Connie,

The Osteoporosis Reversal Program manual (formerly The Bone Health Revolution) has some recipes and menu ideas, but not a set up fixed weekly menu. Here is my advice that will help you choose wisely and keep your bones in great shape. Try to eat a good variety of foods throughout the week. This will insure that you get a variety of bone-healthy nutrients from the Foundation Foods.

To your health!

Question & Answer #6

What are the simplest and easiest exercises to do daily that will save the bones of 60 plus folks?

-Sam O.

Dear Sam,

When it comes to bone health exercises, I recommend you focus on these three important types: weight-bearing, resistance, and postural. In other words, you should practice exercise techniques that help build bone strength and density, and some that enhance flexibility and good posture.

Another very important aspect of bone health is preventing falls, so it is a great idea to do exercises that increase your balance. If you haven't yet, check out my blog post titled “Prevent Fractures with Simple Balance Exercises”. I think you'll love the easy exercises to improve your balance and prevent dangerous falls that could lead to fractures.

Namaste,

Question & Answer #7

I have not heard your comments on the prune study done by a doctor in Florida. It seems that eating 10-12 prunes a day will increase bone mass. There is some speculation that the same thing in prunes that promotes bone growth may encourage the growth of some cancers. I would like to know your thoughts on this.

-Tracy D.

Dear Tracy,

The studies found that prunes decreased the amount of bone loss in laboratory animals with artificially induced osteoporosis, and increased biomarkers related to bone formation in postmenopausal women.

The beneficial effects of prunes (which are dried plums) on bone formation is linked to prunes' high concentration of polyphenols that act as antioxidants to reduce bone loss. They contain large amounts of phenolic compounds and are also an good source of boron, and copper. Both trace minerals are listed in the Osteoporosis Reversal Program as Foundation Supplements, plus I devote an entire chapter in the manual to discuss bone-healthy antioxidants.

While the presence of antioxidants in prunes help reduce oxidation damage to cells, and thus the formation of harmful free-radicals, a surprising study published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute associates prunes with an elevated risk of colon cancer. More research needs to be conducted to elucidate this intriguing link.

Besides the possible (but doubtful, I should add) cancer link to prunes, there are two reasons to have them only occasionally, if at all. First and foremost, prunes are one of the few fruits (along with plums, cranberries, and blueberries) that have an acid ash residue. Secondly, they contain oxalates that could interfere with calcium absorption. So if you wish to eat prunes, I recommend you balance them with other alkalizing foods and chew them well, to diminish the effect of the oxalates. Also, avoid getting prunes treated with preservatives, such as sulfur dioxide.

Stay happy and alkaline,

Question & Answer #8

Dear Vivian, I have a sister who is in her eighty’s, was on Fosamax and lost 5 kg. with lots of esophagus problems. She stopped taking the medicine and gained 2 kg. The doctor told her she had to have medication because the osteoporosis was so bad and has given her intravenous treatment. One years supply. She has your book Save Our Bones but the doctor really frightened her. Would like to see more truth about these drugs in the media. Thank you,

-Margaret

Dear Margaret,

I hope your sister and you are well, and that your sister did not get attacked by the osteoporosis IV side-effects. Of course we would all like to see more truth about drugs in the mainstream media! But should we blame them for parroting the views of the medical establishment?

And so long as doctors continue to use scare tactics on their patients, only those who – like members of the Save Our Bones community – continue to educate themselves about natural solutions to get rid of osteoporosis, will be immune to these tactics.

Your sister, unfortunately, who as you write does have the Osteoporosis Reversal Program, has fallen prey to her doctor's (most likely well-intentioned) tactics.

I can't stress enough the importance of creating our own “bone health philosophy”. Once we analyze our options and understand that drugs can do more harm than good, the rest is as easy as sticking to the science-based knowledge and common sense natural solutions as portrayed in the Osteoporosis Reversal Program.

To our natural bone health philosophy and good health!

Question & Answer #9

I have decided to stop Fosamax after 3 and 1/2 months due to eye problems and palpitations. Will I suffer added bone loss due to the drug’s effect on the remodeling process, how long will this last, how long will the drug remain in the body -and what’s the best way of countering any ill effects?

-GR (didn't give name)

Dear GR,

I hope your palpitations and eye problems are gone or at least got better.

Great questions! In fact, your questions are critical. That's why I have addressed them in great detail in a blog post titled “Stop Taking Osteoporosis Drugs? It's Never too Late”. I strongly recommend you read it.

Be inquisitive, and always demand the truth,

Question & Answer #10

I have recently embarked on your program. I have had an underactive thyroid for 25 years and take synthroid every day. How does this affect bone density and is there anything special I need to do in addition to your program. I have osteoporosis according to my doctor and he gave me word for word the same speech you specified in your book!!! Surprise, surprise!!!! I am NOT taking the medication. Many thanks.

-Sue G.

Dear Sue,

Well done, and thanks for joining the thousands that are following the program!

What hurts bones is an overactive thyroid; you have the exact opposite, and what I recommend you do (in addition to following the Osteoporosis Reversal Program) is to make sure that you check your blood T4 and TSH often enough. By keeping close tab on these thyroid activity blood values, your doctor will be able to make sure that you are not taking too much Synthroid, which could lead to an overactive thyroid.

By the way, hypothyroidism has reached epidemic proportions, and could – at least in part – be attributed to municipal water fluoridation.

As I write in the Osteoporosis Hydration Protocol, which is part of the Osteoporosis Reversal Program, fluoride has deleterious bone health effects because it accumulates in the body. Relating to thyroid problems, fluoride was used in the 1950's as a drug to slow down overactive thyroid conditions. It had to be phased out due to terrible side-effects. This is not surprising, because to this day, fluoride is a widely used active ingredient in rodent and insect pest control. Yet it is added to most municipal waters with the questionable benefit of tooth decay prevention.

So to stay on top of your bone health and your general health, follow as many of the recommendations in the Osteoporosis Reversal Program, including the Osteoporosis Hydration Protocol, as strictly as possible.

Stay bone-smart and healthy,

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Comments on this article are closed.

  1. DeDe

    I’ve had a complete hysterectomy. My doctor put me on Premarin until I discovered a tiny malignant tumor in one breast. I promptly took myself off the hormone therapy, had a lumpectomy, and was prescribed Arimidex to prevent any possibility of estrogen in my body. I’ve been cancer free for 7 years, and I no longer take Arimidex.
    I’ve been diagnosed with osteopenia. I have your book and started on the Osteoporosis Reversal Program. My question is about soy products. Are they beneficial to help change pH and thus get more healthy bones? I’ve heard some people say it’s great and some people say it’s dangerous. Does this have to do with genetically modified soy beans or all soy beans?

  2. Virginia

    Dear Vivian:
    I was wondering if you could recommend a bone building supplement that does not contain sterates or titanium Iam 51 yrs. old and have osteoarthritis in both knees… I had athroscopic knee surgery to realign my left knee last December and the doctor cut away a lot of arthritis from that knee … He said, I would probably need a knee replacement in 10 – 15 years from now which hopefully, God willing and with your know how will never come to pass… I am supposed to be having arthroscopic knee surgery to realign my right knee this December 2012. I was taking Jarrows bone building supplement which has all of the good things you suggested , the only problem is it contains magnesium sterates which Dr. Mercola says blocks your Tcells, which I REALLY DONT WANT TO DO… I would appreciate any suggestions you could give me.. Thank you

  3. Rosemarie

    I need HELP! I’m entirely at a loss on what to eat for breakfast. Lately, I have relied on low sugar protien bars. In June I fractured my left hip, fell off a ladder down to the driveway, they were able to pin it. I have the program but moved a year ago and haven’t found the box it’s packed in. Dah

    • bonnie

      FLYLADY.net for the box comment you made. GOD BLESS t

  4. Lynn

    I am waiting receipt of the save our bones program. I like many have taken alendronic acid for 3 years and have just stopped taking it. My question is, without yet reading the program, will I gain weight following the program? I really hope that I can lose weight as i cannot afford to gain anymore weight.

  5. carol

    I was diagnosed with borderline osteoporosis 6 weeks ago it was a complete shock to me as I am otherwise a healthy 50 year old and have a reasonably good diet. I do have celiac disease and an underactive thyroid. My T scores were -2.4 in the hip and -2.3 in the spine. Two doctors told me to take fosamax but I am frightened of the side effects, but I am also frightenet not to take them. I have already cut out sugar from my diet and caffeine and I take fruit or veg with every meal. Also started exercising more and have started taking osteoprime and urticalcin. Am I doing the right thing going against doctors advice? Please advise me.

  6. Bea Justice-Salyers

    Vivian, once again I thank you for your informative information. I honor you opinions on most everything I’ve heard from you. I did have a question, but after reading all the questions and comments, I acturally forgot what I meant to ask. Nevertheless, I’m sure I will think of that question soon, and will ask for your advice. Keep up the good work! You help so many people who are willing to take your advise concerning healthy bones. Regards, Bea

  7. Brenda Mastrodonato

    I was diagnoised with osteoporosis about 5 yrs ago and was put on Fosamax. I was on it for 2 yrs and went off it when there was no increase in my bone density. I was put back on it last year but when I had my bone density this year it had not improved and had also moved to my spine. I started having leg pain and had an x-ray taken of my hip and back, The Dr said I had arthritis in my hip joint and spine and my spine had started to show some collapse. He insists I start back on Boniva or Fosamax again or my condition will only worsen. Is natural still my best option considering my spine is now involved?

  8. patti booher

    I was wondering the same thing. Can the 80/20 split be in a 12 hour period or does it have to be at every meal? Also, what kind of fruit juices and/or orange juice do you recommend? What name brand, does it have to be fresh squeezed , that proves to be a hassle. What does the label need to say?

  9. Irina Korzhenevich

    Dear Vivian,

    I read your answers with a great interest. It is very useful for me. Now can I ask a question? What do you think about calcium-magnesium balance? I have osteoporosis and also calcified arteries in my heart. I took 1 g of Calcium daily with vitamin D and magnesium for several years. I’ve read in the internet that my condition may be caused by an incorrect calcium-magnesium balance and that it is possible to reverse my condition by taking only magnesium and vitamin D without Calcium for 3 months. What do you think?

    Thank you very much,
    Irina

  10. Faigy

    Dear Vivian,

    I was diagnosed with osteoporosis many years ago. I took the nasal spray Calcitonin for many years. I also had injections of Aridia – until I had surgery to remove a parathyroid adenoma in 2008. My doctors now want me to take Reclast and I do not want to do it.
    I took Fosamax for six months when first diagnosed. It gave me severe reflux which I still have. I take Sucralfate twice a day and Ranitidine at bedtime to control the reflux. Even with these medications, I still suffer with reflux. I am not presently taking any medication for osteoporosis.

    I am 71 years young, 5′ 2″ and weigh 102 lbs. My doctor wants me to try to gain weight so that I will not become frail. It seems that only acidic foods will help me retain my present weight or gain weight. In the past, I have only been able to gain weight by increasing carbohydrates. I also need to eat some fish (salmon), chicken and beef. On a diet made up mostly of vegetables I am hungry and miserable. How can I gain weight and feel satisfied on the Save Our Bones 80/20 diet?

    Prior to the parathyroid surgery, I had an upper body cat scan that showed calcium deposits in my lungs, kidneys and liver. Would Vitamin-K remove these calcium deposits? I am unable to tolerate magnesium as an ingredient in my calcium pills due to digestive difficulties. The only kosher calcium supplement with Vitamin K also contains 750 mg. magnesium. The only kosher algae-based calcium supplement – called Silica – only contains 30 mg. calcium.

    What are your suggestions?

    Thank you

  11. June McGough

    Dear Vivian,
    I have followed your program and had stopped the Actonel (which made my bone density come out worse) I get to have another one in March 2011. Take my calcium and vitaim D3, twice a day.
    Will let you know my new density turns out.It will be 2 years.
    June

  12. Betty Evans

    I am wondering if bulgar wheat is acidic or alkaline. Same question with agave nectar. Also, with the 80/20 split, should each individual meal be balanced in this way or could I have a mainly acidic lunch as long as I had an alkaline dinner? Thanks to anyone who can help.

  13. Anna Marie

    I have been staying away from acid food i.e. oranges, grapefruit, etc. and use alkaline foods like prunes, raisens (?), etc., as I am prone to UTIs and the alkaline foods have been listed as creating an acid environment in the bladder…am I incorrect here and how do you balance acid foods with Alkaline…do you have a columized chart that compares the items side by side? Enjoy all you do…will have time soon to read more…anna marie

    • Stew

      That’s the best answer by far! Thanks for cnotrbiutnig.

  14. Celestina Marie

    HI Vivian,
    Once again great info and question and answer.
    Thank you so much!

  15. dorothy sinson

    I own the Bone Health Revolution (published 2008-09). How is the book, Osteoporosis Reversal Program different?This is the first time I have asked this question. I need an answer.

    • Veronica

      Vivian, you are doing such a tremendous service to us with osteoporosis.
      Many blessings to you!!!!
      Veronica

    • Customer Support

      Hi Dorothy,

      The Osteoporosis Reversal Program contains essentially the same information as The Bone Health Revolution, with the addition of an introduction and one new chapter.

  16. Dee

    Hi All, I am reluctant to give up my 6 to 8 daily prunes as my bone density vastly improved and my endocrinoligist was amazed.I also am hyperthyroid and suspected of hyperparathyroidism. I am allowed 500 mg of calcium daily as a supplement and not woorry about calcium in my diet.

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Dee,

      You don’t need to give up prunes; simply balance them with other alkalizing foods.

  17. Annie McAteer

    Dear
    Vivian, I eat an apple a day and had read that you should eat the pips as they contained a very important ingredient, then I read they had arsnic in them ! Is this true please, I am following your book as best I can.

  18. Michael

    Hi Vivian,
    I found in your book few valuable suggestions, thank you for them. Since I have MS along with ostopenia, I am on certain diet which eliminates many recipes (no gluten, no dairy, no beans etc).
    I am wondering if you could help me to understand if your way of dividing food into 2 groups (alkali and acid) can be used with some other system like one below:
    From 1956 until 1992 the United States Department of Agriculture recommended its Basic Four Food Groups.
    The government’s Basic Four involved
    (1) meats, poultry, fish, dry beans and peas, eggs, and nuts;
    (2) dairy products, such as milk, cheese, and yogurt;
    (3) grains and wheat products
    (4) fruits and vegetables.
    The main idea is do not mix together certain categories, for example fruits should be eaten with fruits, meat should be eaten with vegetables etc. It is probably not an easy question but what is your opinion on this? Your book guides us to think about acid and alkali. From this perspective we can eat meat or fish with not-peeled potato. It should NOT be eaten together from the mentioned 4 groups division.

    Thank you,
    Michael

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Hi Michael,

      Not mixing starches with proteins, or dairy with other animal proteins, and eating fruit all by itself can aid certain digestive disorders. In fact, a major bestseller (dating back to the early 80’s) titled “Fit for Life” explains this type of eating in great detail. The book is mainly geared to weight loss and feeling better overall. Those who do have digestion issues can greatly benefit from the guidelines explained in that book. It is also very easy to follow them along with the acid/alkaline balance; they do not conflict.

  19. Michael

    Hi Vivian,
    Buckwheat is not mentioned in your book. Is it alkalizing product? This site says it is:
    https://www.liferesearchuniversal.com/acid.html.
    I am not sure though can I trust the site or not because it also states that milk, butter, veg oils are neutral as oppose your book which relates them to either alkalizing or acidifying categories.

    Thank you,
    Michael

  20. Gretchen Feldmeyer

    Vivan,

    I have read your book and took note about the water issue and fluoride. I also have an underactive thyroid issue along with osteopenia.

    My question has to do with swimming pools and natatoriums, my son swims and I am always in these environments. Anything I need to be aware of??

    Thank you,

    Gretchen

  21. Kathy D

    DearVivian,
    Iam taking advacal with Genestein VitaminD3 it isAaaca Calcium1200mg
    Vitamin D3 1700IU Genistein 54mg. Please let me know what you think
    about this product. I have Osteoporis Iam 69 years old I have taken Forteo
    for two years about 5years ago.I have not taken any of the Osteoprosis.
    Can you please let me know what you think about thisAdvacal Calcium Iam more concern about theGenistein it comes from the natural isoflavone from the
    Pagoda tree not from soy.A clinically tested mineral blend of Zinc,copper ,
    Manganese.Thank you .

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Hi Kathy,

      Advacal, as they say on their website, is processed calcium that originates with oyster shells, an inorganic source of calcium. You would be better off with products containing Algaecal, a patented organic, plant-based calcium.

  22. INES

    DEAR VIVIAN:

    YOU HAD BEEN A GREAT HELP TO ME. I FOLLOW YOUR
    ADVICE ABOUT GOOD NUTRITION, EXERCISE, AND NOT OSTEOPOROSIS MEDICATIONS. EXCELENT, BUT I
    TAKE CALCIUM CITRATE PLUS VITAMIN D3,ZINC,
    COPPER,MAGNESIUM,MANGANESE,BORON,GENISTEIN.
    HOPING THAT MY NEXT BONE DENSITY TEST WILL BE
    RIGHT. THANK YOU.

  23. Kathy D

    I started taking advacal calcium with natural genistein not from soy or estrogen
    I want to know if Gnistein is safe thanks

  24. Dianne

    Dear Vivian
    I appreciate very much the information you have been sending me via email. Thank you.
    Can I buy your program from Australia without having to use a Credit Card?
    I stopped taking Fosamax two years ago, much to my Doctor’s horror. Please tell me what you know about wild yam cream as a treatment for osteoporis. I have a copy of “what your doctor may not tell you about menopause” by John R. Lee.
    Thank you in anaticipation.

    • Customer Support

      Hi Dianne-

      You can order the Save Our Bones program by mail with a check or money order from anywhere in the world. For instructions and shipping charges, just go to https://saveourbones.com/mail

  25. Dulce

    Hello Vivian

    I tried several times to order the scratch & dent program with no success. I am 81yrs young & have stopped Fosamax because of severe reflux & it has worked wonders.So now I am following your information & flying free.
    I myself have tried Evista, Actonel plus Fosamax. All have terrible side effects so thanks to you we are informed.

    Thanks Vivian

  26. Ms. L.

    Hi! Vivian,

    You Give VERY GOOD Advice To The People You Answer. Thank You For Be Sincere With Them, And With Me As Well!
    You Are A Very Kind-Hearted And Caring Person!
    And I Wish You THE BEST!

    LOVE, MS. L.

  27. Eter Favis- FILART

    Truly educational n inspiring. Very helpful 2 osteoporotics like us.

  28. Adele

    Can anyone tell me if drinking Redbush tea (Roobios Tea) naturally caffiene free is ok to drink, as I enjoy drinking hot tea with milk, and folowing the ‘save our bones’ programme advises not to drink too much. I have been looking for a substitute drink and came across this, it is ok to drink with or without milk.
    Thanks

  29. Thuan Phan

    Vivian,
    I have been diagnosed with osteoporosis and hyperthyroidism. After joining Saveourbones program, I stopped taking weekly actonel (since beginning of October). My hyperthyroidism is now under controlled with a daily dose of 10mg of anti-thyroid medicine (methimazole). My TSH, T3, T4 readings have been perfect for the last 18 months and I see my Endo every six months. Am I making the right decision to stop Actonel? Any extra advices that you can give me?

    Thanks,
    Thuan

    • Sanjay

      Nova Scotia has the ‘TAR PONDS- a man made lake like which in it contains chmaciel waste. No sign of Elizabeth May or the media or any protesters hovering around demanding that the provincial government do something about it.The oilsands a natural made source of the ground from fossils is contantly under attack.If oilsands was located in Quebec or Nova Scotia where the tar-ponds is located, I don’t think for one minute that Liz May or any other would make the mistake of humilating either province in the international scene.

  30. julie yuhas

    i don’t recall anything about lemon juice being harmful to the bones. i put 4 prunes in my smoothie. will this harm the bones. thank you for your help.

  31. Dorothy

    After being on prednisone for 8 months for polymyalgia I had a bone density test. I had been exercising my back and hip muscles at the fitness club, taking my nutrients and trying to eat an alkaline diet. Much to my surprise, where I had osteopenia I am now normal and where I had osteoporosis it has improved. So osteoporosis can be reversed. Just hang in there everybody.

  32. Betty Eichenberger

    I would like your comments on the use of the accelation (vibration) machine, one under the brand name, Power Plate, on increasing bone density as well as muscle tone.

  33. Shula

    The prune research is very interesting.

    My question is about Chile and Cayenne Pepper. Do they have any effect, either positive or negative, on the bones? They’re supposed to have medicinal qualities, and are also considered any-cancerous.

    Thank you
    Shula

  34. Jean

    Regarding the comments on Evista above – I just had my annual checkup, and since I am a breast cancer survivor (5 yrs) I will soon be finished with my 5 years of taking Femara. My medical oncologist says, go off cold turkey, no further anti-estrogen drugs needed. My primary doc would like to see me take Evista, since I refuse Actonel. So I appreciate the info you provide here, Vivian. (I wasn’t going to take it anyway, but it’s always nice to have backup!) I’m waiting for my “scratch and dent” copy of your program, and have already been using many of your ideas regarding exercise and diet; my next bone density will not be scheduled til next October, so I’m hoping I can show my doc some improvement with the program by that time, and make her a believer, too. Thanks, Vivian,

    • Sandy

      I was reading about what you said concerning Evista and your doctor wanted you to take it. I am a 5 year breast cancer survivor who recently went off tamoxiphen. My gynecologist recommended that I take Evista and told me that the side effects were only hot flashes. I read about it before starting to take it and saw that it could cause blood clots and since I work at a desk all day sitting I was afraid to take it, especially since my gyn said to take it forever. I am curious to know if you started to take it or not. I’m not sure what to do so I have done nothing. Any advice? Thank you..Sandy

  35. julie

    I do posture exercises because of mild kyphosis. Are my postural issues related to osteoporisis? I was diagnosed with osteoporosis. Will these exercises prevent my back from getting worse?

  36. LAURA

    Hi Vivian – Do you have any comments on the product Citracal Bone Density Builder with Genistein? It is marketed as ‘clinically proven to Significantly increase Bone Density up to 5%’. Thank you for all of your helpful information.

    • Kathy D

      Vivian,
      Is genistein safe

  37. linda

    Vivian,
    after years of being diagnosis with osteroprosis, i have been diaganosed with hyperparthyroism and taking calcicum increases my symptoms. i had the surgery and it was not successful and i am waiting to have another surgery. what can i do for my bones while i wait for the next surgery?

    • Salita

      I too have hyperparathyroidism & I am not taking calcium supplementation. Other than following the Save Our Bones program, which I do, is there anything else I can do to protect my bones?

  38. Jane Byard

    Vivian, are you familiar with the Kangen water system that produces highly alkaline water for drinking? Please send your thoughts on this.
    Thank you.
    Jane Byard

  39. Karen Gerstman

    Hello Vivian I first want to say I l♥ve your book. I have been on 3 different bisphophonates in the past 5 yrs & 5 months, after reading your book I informed my doctor I was done taking any more osteoporosis bisphosphonates. I informed her about your book I was reading, & wanted to try your method for two years & have another bone density done at that time, she agreed with me. I did want to ask you if taking 3000 Ius was too much. My blood work showed I was low on vit. D I was taking 1000, then 1800, & now 3000. I see him again next Oct.I am taking 1160 mgs. of calcium too. It’s very hard to accumalate the exact amount of calcium that is purchased in drug stores without being under or going over. Thank you

    • Andressa

      im assuming she’s going qkiucly to get her heart rate up and burn calories and her form isn;t fantastic but its okay.. her knees stayed over her ankles which is god

  40. virginia

    You mentioned avoiding prunes with such preservatives as sulfur dioxide. Most have potassium sorbate as a preservative. Are there any out there without preservatives?

  41. Adele Brett

    I was diagnosed with borderline osteoporosis in my hip and osteopenia in my back. I am 73.
    My holistic doctor recommended I take 500 mg of strontium along with vitamin D3, calcium, vitamin K. After reading on your blog that strontium affects the outer bone and can become easily fractured, I stopped taking it. My question to you is does the mineral nutrient affect the bones the same as the presciption form. Thank you for your response.

    • Grace

      Adele,
      I too have stopped taking Fosomax and am taking 1000 mg of Strontium…
      Could you please send me Vivan’s reply when she addresses the use of Strontium.
      Thanks,
      Grace

      • Marlene

        The answer you are looking for is Vivian Answers Day #3 question 3. The short answer is she does not recommend using strontium. Take a good organic source of calcium like AlgaCal. Good Luck.

  42. blima horwitz

    Thanks for all the great info! Regarding thyroid medicine…I now take Nature-thyroid instead of synthyroid. This was recommended to me by a compounding pharmacist. Also…I was wondering if acid foods can be made less acidic by the cooking or soaking method used. Thanks again! Blima

    • Ardi

      Where do you get the Nature Thyroid? I am very interested in switching from the Synthroid.

      • Hildegard

        kai Posted on Hey Chris, Being outside the filneeg of flow is a great way to describe it. Checking in with your flow is a great way to know when it’s time to take a break.Thanks for stopping by.

    • LIse

      I would like to know where I can get the Nature-thyroid, because
      my level is high and I refused to take the Syntroid. I am looking
      for a natural form. I went to the health food store and got
      Iodine drops which were recommended by the health food store.
      Do you find it effective?
      I would appreciate a comment from you and Vivian.
      Lise

  43. jo

    Vivian,
    You mentioned cranberries have an acidic effect. What about taking cranberry pills to help with numerous UTIs? Are those extracts just as harmful as the fruit?

    Thank you!
    Jo

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Jo,

      Acidifying foods are not harmful; they just need to be consumed in the right proportion to alkalizing foods. So if you take cranberry supplements, make sure you keep the balance.

  44. shirley thacker

    I am Celiac, so I do a lot of my own cooking. I am exercising and trying to add the foods to my diet that Vivian is sharing with us.I try to get my rest, even tho I do keep busy.
    Shirley

  45. monica forster

    Hello Vivian,
    I find your communication via the internet/email absolutely invaluable. I have stopped taking Alendronic acid after 1 year as I became increasingly concerned about the side effects. Indeed, I started suffering from aching muscles in my neck and shoulders, and my throat had an uncomfortable burning sensation.
    I am at present trying to use a healthy diet for my calcium intake and I do a lot of exercise including Salsa dancing, Yoga and Pilates.
    I do, however feel very isolated as consultants, doctors and even the Osteoporosis society just reproduce information about mainstream drugs with no alternatives in sight.
    It would be wonderful if there were some support network like yours here in the UK!
    Do you see this happening in the near future?
    Yours gratefully!,
    Monica

    • Sandra

      I would also like to link up with a UK based support group. I have been diagised with osteoporosis and refused bisphosphonates when I read the side effects. I found th Save our Bones programme and am now following it but a UK support group would be great and the USA products are not available in UK.
      Has anyone any idea how we could start a UK Support group.

      Sandra

      • Uflon

        I like this–I am challenging msyelf to actually have “school time” with my 4 yr old at home while older sis is at school, but I need to apply to me too. Good Luck!! Have fun at the ZOO.

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Monica,

      We are all here for you. Save Our Bones is worldwide… and I can tell you that “it’s a small world, after all!” 🙂

  46. Susan Beidelschies

    To the women who is taking evista, I was on it for just a couple of months and ended up with a blood clot, the first thing the doctor in the hospital said , stop taking Evista. I am not on any kind of medication for osteoporosis , just trying to eat heathy.

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