‘Vivian Answers Day’ #6 - Save Our Bones

Question & Answer #1

Vivian,

What are the natural sources like vegetables, etc. from which one can get calcium and vitamin D? Does yogurt and buttermilk have calcium besides milk?

Thank you for your help,

-Bakula

Dear Bakula,

Your question is very relevant because the best way to get bone healthy nutrients is from foods. Both calcium and vitamin D are Foundation Supplements, and in the Osteoporosis Reversal Program you can find a list of Foundation Foods, including these two very important nutrients.

Vegetables that contain the highest levels of calcium are cabbage, broccoli, and lima beans. Yogurt and buttermilk are a good source of calcium, but stay away from milk. You should read my blog post on milk titled “Debunking the Milk Myth: Why Milk is Bad for You and Your Bones”, in case you missed it.

Vitamin D is not found in any veggies; nothing beats the sun to get this essential bone-building vitamin!

Stay healthy,

Question & Answer #2

After having a colonoscopy my L2 was fractured. Then I bent over and fractured another, anyway for two weeks didn’t know what was wrong. My stomach is extended, like a pregnant belly. I am shorter than I was and weigh only 102 lbs. but all of my pants are tight because of my stomach. Have you ever heard of this before?

-Caryl E.

Dear Caryl,

I hope you are feeling better. The postural function of the spine depends on a physiological pattern of the spinal curvature. Therefore, a pathological change in the spine compromises posture and may cause compensatory curves.

That is most probably the reason why you are noticing an expanded abdomen. I recommend you consult with an orthopedist (if you haven't yet), and find out what are your options to correct the abdominal distention. Sometimes traction is recommended to straighten this out. An orthopedist can help you best.

Wishing you a quick recovery,

Question & Answer #3

You seem to be strongly against strontium supplementation. As many other alternative health advisors are in favor of strontium, can you give a detailed explanation why you do not agree?

-Maurice

Dear Maurice,

This is a rich and controversial topic, as you correctly mention in your question. For that reason, in the Osteoporosis Reversal Program I devote several pages to discuss the drug Protelos TM (strontium ranelate).

Here are the main points why strontium ranelate (and by extension, any form of strontium, such as strontium citrate, carbonate, or lactate) is not a good choice:

  • Strontium has its own long list of undesirable side-effects, commonly ranging from nausea to skin irritation, and less often (fortunately), blood clots and fainting.
  • Since strontium is denser than calcium, it is difficult to assess actual bone improvement in a DXA scan.
  • Several studies conclude that strontium causes the outer cortical bone to become thicker, actually reducing tensile strength. This increases the risk of fractures.
  • Strontium competes with calcium absorption.

Keep asking questions, always,

Question & Answer #4

Hi Vivian. Thank you for your great book.

I am wondering how to check if I am absorbing my calcium and other vitamins and minerals properly.

Thanks for your help.

-Sascha

Dear Sascha,

I really appreciate your kind words about my work. You can request a blood test to check many vitamins and minerals, so remember this next time you go for a check-up.

To your health!

Question & Answer #5

I was just diagnosed with osteopenia at age 55. When I was 36, I had a hysterectomy and left with one ovary. At age 39, I was diagnosed with a severe overactive thyroid and they used a radioactive treatment to stop my thyroid from making any natural hormones. I also suffer from cluster migraines about every six weeks since 1998.

I take synthroid and cytomel for my thyroid, and imitrex as needed for my migraines. I have been taking calcium chews for the past 3 years. I also started taking B12, D3 and iron this past March as my Dr. did blood work and found my levels on the low side but not out of range. I also take a natural product for menopause, remifemin. My menopause symptoms are mild now, some minor sleep disruptions and mini hot flashes occasionally but 5 years ago they were severe.

I lost 30 lbs in the past 12 months on a new eating regiment which is basically fruit, veggies and protein based. I drink 60 – 80 oz. of spring water a day. I am 5” 9’ and 155 lbs. I golf, walk and play tennis.I also recently quit smoking.

I feel that I am on the right track but I feel tired and have joint pain just about every day, e.g. hip, lower back, knee and elbow…

My questions is based on the aforementioned, do you have experience with other people that your Osteoporosis Reversal Program (I’ve read your book recently) may help reverse my osteopenia due to my imbalance of my thyroid and other health issues. I saw many stories about hypothyroid but not hyperthyroid.

Also, the vitamins are quite expensive and I wonder if you have a recommendation as to special brand, where to purchase them in bulk or discounts and do they come bundled?

Please help and thank you in advance,

-Linda

Dear Linda,

Thanks for sharing your story with us. First and foremost, Imitrex (sumatriptan) can cause muscle aches and/or cramps, tiredness, and weakness. I recommend you first rule out the drug's possible side-effects.

Also, I recommend you stop drinking spring water. As I write in the Osteoporosis Hydration Protocol, which is part of the Osteoporosis Reversal Program, spring water contains inorganic minerals, which are poorly absorbed and can accumulate in the soft tissues and joints, mimicking arthritis symptoms.

The issue with excessive bone loss is present in hyperthyroidism, which is an overactive thyroid. You have the opposite, and I'm sure you check your thyroid levels often. I don't recommend a particular brand of vitamins. If you live in the US or Canada, you might want to try the retail discount warehouses such as Costco for bulk discounts.

So keep up with the program and enjoy life!

Question & Answer #6

What is the link between strong bones and hormones?

-Patsy B.

Dear Patsy,

While there are many hormones that can affect bone strength, I am assuming that your question is about female hormones. If you already got the Osteoporosis Reversal Program, you know that I am against any type of hormonal supplementation for osteoporosis. It is no secret that the cookie-cutter hormonal treatment of the past few decades is slowly tapering off because very serious side effects linked to hormone supplementation have been reported.

As it relates to osteoporotic fractures, researchers have found that estrogen treatment for bone strength is, at best, an “imperfect solution.” I am quoting from a study published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism titled “Does Estrogen Adequately Protect Postmenopausal Women Against Osteoporosis?”, by Orwoll and Nelson.

There is no need to tamper with our delicate hormonal balance. The Osteoporosis Reversal Program is designed to increase your bone density and improve your bone strength without any hormones or drugs.

So believe in yourself… and believe in your bones.

Question & Answer #7

I believe that the ingestion of Aluminium from cookware /foil /manufactured foods /cans and even things like indigestion remedies are one of the biggest causes of leaching calcium from the body and the bones but no one bothers to pull the research together because they are too frightened of the industry backlash.

-Pat

Dear Pat,

Indeed, studies demonstrate that aluminum accumulation in bone causes bone density loss. One such study, titled “Loss of bone resulting from accumulation of aluminum in bone of patients undergoing dialysis” by Faugere, M.C. et al. concludes that:

“Aluminum accumulation in bone is associated not only with disturbed mineralization but also with loss of cancellous bone mass, and that removal of aluminum from bone results in gain in bone volume. The mechanisms of this phenomenon are related to a disproportionately greater effect of aluminum on bone formation than on bone resorption. The negative effect on bone formation is caused by decreased number and activity of osteoblasts, which is reversed by removal of aluminum from bone. In addition, the data show that aluminum induces suppression of bone turnover, with uncoupling between bone formation and resorption whereby the effects on bone formation exceed those on bone resorption.”

Journal of Laboratory and Clinical Medicine. 107(6):481-7. June 1986.

Nothing beats natural unprocessed foods, as advocated in the Osteoporosis Reversal Program. And in the Osteoporosis Hydration Protocol I explain the importance of cooking with stainless steel cookware, and why to ditch the toxic non-stick pots and pans.

Be well,

Question & Answer #8

I tried buying the type of calcium you suggest, but can't find it anywhere.

I tried and can’t do the natural toothpaste due to sensitive teeth that need ProEnamel to be pain free. Any alternatives?

I am a meat girl. I know nothing about those alkalizing proteins or grains listed or what to do with them. How do I even get started making such a change?

If I have one cup of coffee and one cup of tea a day, do I need to drink 6 cups of water?

-Chris H.

Dear Chris,

There are several supplement brands like Algaecal, New Chapter and Vitamin Code that make excellent organic calcium supplements derived from algae. And Tom's of Maine makes a natural fluoride-free toothpaste for sensitive teeth.

Remember, the Osteoporosis Reversal Program does not require you to eliminate any foods; you simply enjoy them in the correct balance. And to get started with the foods you are not so familiar with, you might want to search for recipes online, or the recipe sampler in the Save Our Bones manual. There are delicious pasta dishes to get you started.

In reference to how much water to drink, I don't recommend counting the number of cups, but it is a great habit, as I write in the Osteoporosis Hydration Protocol, to drink plenty of distilled water with a few drops of lemon juice.

So take it easy… and stay on track with these simple bone health solutions.

Question & Answer #9

Is taking coral calcium better than other calcium supplements? I was told that it is more absorbable. If not, what would you recommend? Thank you.

-Sheridan F.

Dear Sheridan,

Coral calcium is inorganic, so it can't be the most absorbable form of calcium. In fact, you can read about oceanic calcium in a blog post titled “What the Oceans Can Teach You About Your Bones”. As I write in the Osteoporosis Reversal Program, I recommend organic calcium, and as a second choice, amino acid chelated calcium.

Best wishes,

Question & Answer #10

Dear Vivian:

I have osteoporosis (8 years) in my lower spine – T score 3.3 this year (became worse from previous year of 2.8.) I have been on premarin for 15 years and then evista for past 3 years; fosamax for last 8 years … of which I took myself off this May. I was diagnosed with osteopenia in my hip but this year it was normal. I had been seeing a trainer 2xs a week this past year. Doctor wants to put me on Forteo, which I am declining and am treating it now with diet, bioidentical progesterone, and mineral/vitamin supplements. My diet is primarly fruits, vegetables, and grains … no animal products, caffeine, sugar.

What I need to know are safe exercises for my lower spine … I am at high risk for fracture in lower spine. I am currently doing back extensions (on floor with towel or exercise equip. under hip and raising upper and lower body). What else can I do to help this area.

Second question: Do I need to take strontinum. I am currently taking calcium tablets (highest dose 2xs/day) with vitamin D, womens daily vitamin for women over 50 and depending on diet for the other minerals/vitamins needed.

-Debbie

Dear Debbie,

My heart goes out to you: so many years of taking so many drugs… with no results!

You can check out an exercise video in the blog titled “The Spine Strengthener”, where I show how to strengthen the back muscles to support the spine and thus prevent fractures. And I devote an entire chapter to this topic in the Osteoporosis Reversal Program.

About your question on strontium, you can check out my answer to Maurice.

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Comments on this article are closed.

  1. Nancy Morton

    Hi Vivian,
    Thanks to you and your recommendations my DEXA scan showed significant improvement. The reason I am writing now is that due to an injury to a ligament in the thumb my doctor wants to give me a single cortico-steroid injection. Would one injection set me back? If so, do you have any reference material I could show him? This injury is quite painful so I’m hoping you could possibly respond quickly. Thanks so much for all you do!

  2. Nadoosh

    In our family we have creael with milk for breakfast and eat lots of the yummy Yoplait yogurt, my six year old loves the Boston Cream Pie flavor. And we definitely need another yoga mat, mine is getting a bit worn.

  3. bea

    hi vivian i would like to know if i am doing it right every morning i have a smoothie which i put 7 fruits in and i put plain yogurt and a little honey than i have either a piece of toast with peanut butter or i have a poached egg on toast is this the right way to do it please help me bea

  4. Monica Phillips

    Hi Vivian, Your questions and answers are very helpful. Thank you. Have a wonderful Christmas and all the best for the New Year. Monica

  5. margaret

    Doctor wants me to start taking disodium etidronate. What do you think?

  6. betty

    Thank you Vivian for your comments in answer to my questions,,,you encourage me to stay on the program each day,,,,I am now doing the exercises and eating the alkalizing/acid foods in balance,,,thanks again….no forteo for me,,,,I refuse!!! I feel so much better and have lost weight,,,I walk everyday for half an hour.Thanks to you!

  7. Irma

    Vivian; I found very helpful every answer.
    Thank you again for the wonderful job you do; God bless you,
    Irma

  8. terry

    Hello a friend talked to me about your program.I live in Mexico City and would like to ask you if you ship the book and what would the cost be?
    I have had ospeopenia,now I have osteoporosis,I am a celiac, 57 years old and 8 weeks ago while dancing at a wedding, slipped on the dance floor and fractured my pelvis and left wrist.I am walking now,no more pain,but still uncomfortable.Waiting for your kind reply.Of course my doctor ordered FOSAMAX!!!!!Years ago I took Fosamax and Actonel.Waitng for your kind response, TERRY

  9. Cora

    I am following your program.
    What is your take on recent reports showing there is an increased risk of heart attacks for calcium supplement users?
    Thank you
    Cora

    • Elaine H. NJ

      First, I want to thank you for all the valuable information you have shared and all the encouragement you give.

      I was wondering about sipping a “green drink” during the day to increase alkalinity?

      Also, I react to oxalate foods and calcium citrate helps me so that I can eat some oxalate foods without a problem. Will the E-Zorb calcium bind with the oxalate and remove it from the body as well? If not, could one take some of each to benefit the body for both concerns?

      Thank you so much Vivian.

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Hi Cora,

      I addressed this issue in a recent blog post. Please take a look at Calcium and Heart Attack Alert: My Take

  10. Peg M.

    My question to Vivian was what does she know about EZorb’s Calcium
    Aspartate Anhydrous … a new generation calcium supplement. They claim their calcium compound has achieved the highest rate of absorption
    and is guaranteed to be bio-available for healthy bone and joint metabolism. I have not heard back yet … so is anyone else using it? I have taken the product for about 6 months now and it seems to be good.
    I just want to take the very best product out there!

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Hi Peg,

      Ezorb calcium (aspartate anhydrous), is a combination of a calcium atom and l-aspartic molecules bound by chelation. The makers of ezorb don’t say where they get the calcium molecules from. According to Vivian, she suspects they are inorganic, but can’t find out for sure. Ezorb basically is a highly absorbable (which is good) laboratory made calcium in chelated form (w/ l-aspartic molecules). The makers of ezorb call it an “organic compound”. I don’t recommend any particular brands, so this applies to Ezorb as well, but since it’s so absorbable, chances are it would not cause damage.

  11. Roma

    I saw one comment about Soy milk. I used to have a cereal in the morning with skim milk, but since Vivian recommended taking no milk, started to use soy milk instead. Must say I really like it so much better than cows’ milk but would like to know if this milk is OK for one’s bones.

    Roma
    Australia

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Hi Roma,

      I don’t recommend soy, due to its phytoestrogens. Almond milk would be a better choice.

  12. Monica

    Hi Vivian,
    Besides osteoporosis I also am having a good deal of pain from osteoarthritis, mostly in my feet and hips. I am supplementing with Hyaluronic Acid, 100 mg a day. Does this form of acid affect the pH balance in the blood? I am really trying to keep a good pH balance with dietary changes but am having difficulty.
    Thanks very much,
    Monica

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Hi Monica,

      Hyaluronic acid naturally exists in the body, and it is not acidifying.

  13. Jeanne Krueger

    Do you have a cook book on correct balance recipes for morning, lunch and dinner to prevent more bone loss?

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Hi Jeanne,

      I’m just putting the finishing touches on my cookbook, and it should be ready early next year.

  14. Deb F.

    Have just received your book and have also refused drs advice to take Fosamax and/or Evista for osteopenia.

    Would adopting a gluten free diet assist in keeping the proper alakaine/acid ratio?

    Many thanks on confirming my suspicions that drugs are NOT the way to fight this.

    Sincerely,
    Deb F

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Hi Deb,

      Osteoporosis and sensitivity to gluten are not connected. Many alkaline foods are naturally gluten-free, but a gluten-free diet on its own wouldn’t help with your acid/alkaline balance.

  15. Tilya Helfield

    Question #2 from Caryl E. asks about her distended stomach. This can be a symptom of ovarian cancer and should be checked out by a gynecologist immediately. I urge you to get in touch with this woman and give her this information. It could save her life.

  16. sylvia aminu

    hi,i am taking kapake 500/30mg for pain for osteoporosis,in bad pain at moment,taking carbimazole 5mg for thyroid,have started taking honey every morning,rose hip capsules, fish oil capsules, i drink pomegranit juice 100 per pure, and plenty of water to try to help myself, am i doing right or wrong, i am thinking of having some yogurt organic , need help and suggestions please.

  17. Elizabeth Kelly

    Hi Vivian!
    I have just listened to a talk on magnetic therapy which claims to neutralize the acidity in the body. I would be very interested in your comments on this and if you would recommend the use. I have been diagnosed with osteoporosis but have refused treatment with Actonel. I have sent for your programme and working hard to eat and drink the right things. My doctor says I can have another scan in 10 years time by which time I will be 81!! Is it worth me having a private scan sooner if I can manage to afford it?
    Really enjoy all your emails – they are so informative! Keep up the good work and god bless

    Liz

  18. bonnie wisdorf

    For the woman who has sensitive teeth, I suffered with sensitive teeth for years and about a year ago I read about brushing with baking soda and it has worked wonderfully. I hope this message gets to the lady with the sensitive teeth and anyone else suffering from this.

    • debb h

      I haven’t tried baking soda, but I had sensitive teeth for a time until I took vitamin D(3)and now my teeth are stronger and look denser also. Anyone else noticed this or had these same results?

  19. Shula

    Thank you, Vivian for continuing to answer the various questions. Each answer adds another piece of information, and makes it clearer in my brain.
    Shula

  20. Veronica

    Thank you so much, Vivian.
    Blessings to you!!!
    Veronica

  21. CONNIE

    I am reading the book save our bones, so I am just learning.I love milk but I am trying to cut way back . do I need to take an otc calcium supplement forteo foxomax boniva all of that I have learned personally is bad for you

  22. Kate

    Hi Vivian,

    You mention drinking distilled water. I have read many resources that state distilled water is very acidic. In order to neutralize the acid from distilled water, the body leaches calcium and magnesium from the bones. Thus distilled water is probably not the best for drinking.

    • virginia

      Drink alkaline water. It helps the whole body

  23. Elsie

    Thanks for all your timely info re bone health.
    What is your answer to bioidentical progesterone use which was the last person’s question?
    Very useful manual especially re acid/base food charts.

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Hi Elsie (and you too Claudia!),

      I’m not in favor of any hormonal therapy, whether bioidentical or not. I believe that nature knows best, and that it’s unnatural to supplement hormones that normally dwindle with age. As mammals, we were created so that we can maintain our health without interfering with the normal biological cycles.

    • CLAUDIA DODGE

      WHAT IS YOUR ANSWER TO THE QUESTIONS ON BIOIDENTICALS

      • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

        Please see my response to Elsie.

    • Nancy Perna

      I have just been prescribed bio identical progesterone. I have been told it has not effect on breast cancer, which I had about 32 years ago. I see several questions about this but I do not see an answer and would greatly appreciate know what you think about this. Thanks, Nancy

  24. Anne

    I have been told that I should get braces to correct an overbite/overjet. I tooked 35 mg. of Actonel once a week for 2 years and have been off of it for 2 years and do not plan to take it again. I am dealing with osteopenia through food and supplementation. The problem is that some orthodontist say that my teeth will not move with the use of braces if I’ve taken Actonel for 18 months or more. The research I find seems to be inconclusive. The other scary thing I have read is that necrosis of the jaw is quite common in people who have taken bone meds and especially if they need an extraction, an operation of the jaw or other invasive treatments. So more reasons not to take bone medication.

    Has anyone gotten braces after having taken bone medication for a period of 18 months or more? Did your braces move your teeth as desired?

    Anne

    • Peggy Nadin

      I took Fosamax for several years. Had braces put on while taking it. Teeth straightened fine. Guess I was lucky that I had no jaw problems.

  25. Carol Cook

    I have been using Tom’s of Maine sensitive toothpaste for some time but the formula seems to have changed and now I find sodium lauryl sulfate listed as an inactive ingredient. Is this still acceptable?

  26. irene

    My Doctor order Celebrex for the arthritis in my R hand Is this a safe drug? Thanks

  27. Debbie Moore

    Can you make your own almond milk? I can’t get it locally but can get the almonds. Rice milk is kind of tasteless & I am trying to avoid too much soy. I can get very good organic milk locally but don’t tolerate it very well. Debbie, Australia

    • Jessie Nodwell

      I’m glad a friend directed me to your work, Vivian
      I shall purchase your book.

  28. catherine smith

    Dear Vivian,

    I enjoy all the tips and info, that you give us.Also, the comments from other people, are helpful.Thank you, for all you do.It is a blessing to us.

  29. Genevieve Marcus

    Just a personal word on strontium. I have severe
    osteoporosis. I took Fosamax for about 10 years.
    My scans remained the same or got slightly worse over the years. Then I read about strontium. I have been taking it for about 5-6 years now.

    For the first time, my bone density has improved by 10%. I feel fine. I take only about 1,000 mg of calcium, mostly in green food; plus magnesium and boron. I go to the gym at least 3-4 times a week. I am 78 years old and osteoporosis runs in my family.

  30. Ms. L.

    Hi! Vivian,

    Keep Up Your Good Advice. You Are A Good Kindhearted Person.
    Take Care, And Stay Well.

    WARMEST REGARDS, MS. L.

  31. Mary McCloskey

    I must have missed something in my reading of the Osteoporosis Reversal Program. I started taking Vitamin Code Raw Calcium from Garden of Life (algae form of calcium). They were selling a bone strengthening package that I thought I would start with. In addition to the calcium, in the evening, on an empty stomach, you are supposed to take 3 Growth Factor S capsules (one of the ingredients is strontium). Should I continue with this supplement. I bought enough for 60 days, then I was going to just take the raw calcium. What do you suggest?

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Hi Mary,

      The Vitamin Code formula contains only 3.8 mg of strontium, a naturally-occurring amount that’s acceptable. What I don’t recommend is separate strontium supplements, which often contain hundreds of times that amount.

  32. Babs

    You tell us not to take strontium, but you recommend New Chapter and Vitamin Code…both of which have strontium in them.

    This is confusing.

    Thanks,
    Barbara

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Hi Babs,

      Please see my reply to Mary. The small amount of strontium in the formulas is just fine.

  33. kay

    Hi Vivina
    you say Algecal is good but it has strontium, in which you say is not good.whats your take on this.

    regards Kay

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Hi Kay,

      Please see my responses to Babs and Mary.

  34. Gerri D.

    Hi Vivian,
    Your answers are so informing and interesting,as is everyones input concerning their own experiences with osteoporosis. I have learned so much from you, which helps me make the right decisions concerning supplements to take and diet intake.
    I really look forward to your e-mails.
    Thank you so much. Gerri D.

  35. Shirley L.

    In response to Caryl E. I was diagnosed with spinal stenosis in 2001 and have been able to keep it ‘at bay’ until this year. Had a flare up in Jan. and now have been in excruciating pain since Oct. 16th. I was receiving traction (up to 90lbs), and I really think that exacerbated my problem. Recently had a spinal block and will receive another next month. Such pain, I have NEVER known. Will eventually have to have surgery.
    Since 1986, every 5 years I have had a colonoscopy, since my Dad and brother both died with colon cancer. (So far, no polyps.) However, after hearing your problem, I think I’ll pass on further colonoscopies.
    Thanks for sharing your problems/concerns.

    • Anne

      Colonoscopies are a great life saver. Don’t skip them.

  36. Jackie Waite

    I’ve recently started taking a tablespoon of Black Strap Molassas first thing in the morning. Tastes quite good. Is there any real benefit you see to doing that.

  37. Earlene from Georgia

    I just wanted to pass along an article I read in the August edition of Good Housekeeping. On page 42 in an article entitled “GOT BEER?” and I quote “It does a body good, at least when it comes to strengthening bones, says a study from the University of California, Davis, which analyzed 100 varieties of the thirst-quencher. Beer contains silicon – a mineral that, like calcium, promotes bone-mineral density. Best of the brews: Pale ales and their amber-hued cousins, India pale ales, which, as a group, had the most silicon. Lowest levels: Wheat beers, light varieties, and nonalcoholic formulas.”

    • Judy VanMeter

      Can you give me some input on Soy Milk. I drink a lot of it and need to know if that is a good source of Calcium?

      • Jessi

        Hey I know this is off topic but I was wondering if you knew of any wtedgis I could add to my blog that automatically tweet my newest twitter updates. I’ve been looking for a plug-in like this for quite some time and was hoping maybe you would have some experience with something like this. Please let me know if you run into anything. I truly enjoy reading your blog and I look forward to your new updates.

      • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

        Hi Judy,

        I don’t recommend soy, especially since approximately 75% of soy crops are GMO (genetically modified), and GMO products are often not labeled as such. Also, the calcium in soy milk is often calcium carbonate, which is poorly absorbed.

  38. Barbara Schmidlin

    Vivian: Writing again. Always lose this before I can submit. I am 71 been dealing with fractures since 1997 or 98 due to lifting heavy boxes in Jewelry business daily I had 7 now 8 fractures in my back..this one between shoulder blades. Getting up rolling over hurts.
    Took Foreto 18mo. They wanted me to take Relcast. I declined. I discovered I have Hyper active Thyroid. Read book Adrenal Fatigue, Dr. James Wilson. Have Hypoglycemia
    I take Calcium, Vit D3, Vit D. Having spasms
    presently. Getting Xray Nov.19 to see if the back fracture is right at spine. Was not spotted in Xray Nov 12 on side and front view. Back has been hurting since Nov 2.
    I bought your book (It is Great). He has given
    pain Tramodol HCL 50 mg supposed to take 1 4 x day. I took as precribed -did not work. Could this be leaching Calcium??? Also, daily I take 300 Mg Allopurinol for Gout. That started about 1 year ago. Which is under control. Could this product be leaching Calcium??? With gout the Rhuemotologist said, I’m not supposed to eat meat,chicken,fish, beans, spinach, and I rarely eat beef. I have to have protein because of Hypoglycemia. So I do eat salmon, chicken, beans, spinach. Also,for about 2 years I have not slept well. Do no like to take Sleeping pills..but was exhausted and gave in to Temazepam 15 Mg. Could this be leaching Calcium???. I stay active, perhaps not enough exercise as I am busy a lot. I do not wish to be an invalid and be put in a wheel chair. Could any of these be the problem because of taking them together???
    I’m reading your book. But hope you can give me answers regarding why I have another fracture. Barbara S.

  39. Arlene Stevens

    Your wisdom and foresight are beyond reproach. Thank to you and many others I am no longer on the medication cycle. I feel great exercise weekly and use strengthening exercises to assist my bones along with your video that is revisited many times. Thank you for caring. Arlene

    • Farzet

      Yogurt, cheese both naatrul sources of calcium. I don’t know how well the calcium in things with added calcium absorb into the body, so I tend to stick with the naatrul sources of calcium.

  40. Bernard Pepper

    I must thank you for the “Save Our Bones” book I purchased recently.

    I notice one person mentioned Ezorb in one of the comments. I first came across Ezorb in a recent UK publication. However I cannot find anyone here in the UK who stocks. I have to watch my expenses. When I asked My GP about it, all he could say is that the Calcium Carbonate will do the job just as well, and that was the only prescrption he cold supply, even though Ezorb is far better. What a situation!

    I must give you my thanks for the help you giving us. I am suffering from mild osteoperosis.

  41. Joyce Fortson

    Because of my aggresive form of opteoporis, I take forte shorts every day for 2 years.

    What are your thoughts.

  42. Sally Peters

    I wondered if you would have any comments on EZorb, an organic form of calcium. I was diagnosed with fairly severe osteoporosis about six months ago and took it for a while and liked it. I then have been on AlgaeCal, which I also like, but it seems to me the EZorb made my fingernails so much stronger right away and was being absorbed really well. Right now I’m boing to start taking both products at different times during the day. Any thoughts about it?

    Thanks much,

    Sally Peters

  43. Denise

    You recommend several raw calcium supplements. All three have some stronthium listed as part of the ingredients. Yet you also write not to take any stronthium. I am confused.

  44. Glenna

    Hi, Vivian,
    Thanks for your research and the Osteoporosis Reversal Program. I am using it. I have osteopenia.

    Question: You do not recommend taking Strontium. However, you do recommend the New Chapter brand of calcium/ magnesium which does contain strontium from algae. Is there a difference in this strontium from others?

    I am presently taking the New Chapter Bone Strength Take Care product.

    Thank you for your response!

    Glenna

  45. Ann Dietrich

    My doctor said I have osteo and it is serious. He prescribed Actonel, Calcium w/Vitamin D and a one a day vitamin pill. I refused the Actonel but he said I have too take it, but I won’t.

    I’d like to know how the scoring is measured (mine is 2.4.1). What is good and what is bad?

    From what I’ve be reading and hearing and your excellent updates, the bio drugs are harmful.

  46. Kathy D

    DearVivian,
    I have osteoporosis in both hips and spine.I started taking Advacal intensive
    1200 milligrams and 1000 vitamin D,also 54 milligrams of Genistein and 15
    Mg zinc,Copper5 mg.Manganese2.6 mg Boron 4 mg , andHAI Amino Acid Extract I Mg. The genistein is from the Pagoda Plant. Please let me know
    About this calcium . Thank you Kathy D.

  47. Ken

    I think the most worrisome source of aluminum is certain antacid medications.

  48. mary t ball

    Vivien,

    Such a wealth of good health advice. Thank you so much for all your wisdom.

    mary.

  49. jean

    Have found the above information helpful. Am puzzled so may I ask how may I obtain the information on strengthning the back muscles please. I have a lot of trouble with back muscles so much so I often can scarcily move for hours or days because of spasm. I do not have the video to which you refer on my lap top. Thank you in advance. Keep helping me on my journey. Jean

  50. Anna Marie

    Please clarify the relationship of ‘distilled water to regular water…is there not an osmotic effect that would cause distilled water to leach out body fluids leading to dehydration…it’s been a while since I studied physiology…so I would enjoy an update here…in the meantime I will get out my physiology book…Keep up the good work… Anna Marie

  51. Veronica

    Vivian ,you are a blessing in disgis your letters keep me going .

  52. Hester

    Hi Vivian

    Just to let uou know I find the questions and answers very helpful.

    Just this past week I spoke to my fitness trainer at the gym. He told me his Mom was
    on the osteoporosis drug. The side effects was so bad that she stop to take it. I am so glad she didn’t take it and referred her to “save our bones”

  53. Marilyn

    Love your answers Vivian. thanks so much.

  54. Liz Cairney

    Thoughts for Caryl ?2.

    I am a Body Control Pilates Teacher in the UK with training in Pilates for people with osteoporosis.
    Lower spine wedge fracturesa do tend to make the aabdominals hang forward but you may also have an anterior tilt of your pelvis which will also make your abdominals hang forward. This is soft tissue so gravity is not kind to this kind of posture. You have lots of good Pilates teachers in the US. Check one out see if they can help.

    • Lena Larsen

      Thoughts for Carol E
      Vivian said “consult with an orthopedist… sometimes traction is recommended to straighten this out”.
      A warning from me: be sure to tell the orthopedist if you have or suspect that you have osteoporosis! The orthopedist I went to didn´t bother to check (my back pain and loss of height) with X-ray or Dexa before he twitched my back. I had an even worse pain after he had done that and an X-ray the next week showed “decalcified bone and compression of the top cover of all lumbar vertebrae” and my dexa result came back: Spine T-score -3,6. I will always wonder if something bad happened in my back when he twiched me, especially since I later read somewhere that you should NOT twitch people with osteoporosis.
      Has anybody else knowledge & experience of this?

  55. Janet

    I’d really like to know what organic calcium supplements we can get on prescription in the UK – does anyone know? Otherwise what brands should we buy?

  56. Lenore Hodgkinson

    I am finding the Save our Bones program very helpful. I enjoy eating more lima beans and more vegetables. I miss drinking my milk as I have always been a huge milk drinker but it did not save my bones! Thus I am willing to change my eating and drinking if it is likely to benefit my bones. I have not had any bone tests since I started the program but not sure I have confidence in the bone scans anyway so maybe best to do exercise and healthy balanced eating and not worry about the bone scans.

    • Sue W.

      Hi Lenore,

      I was always a huge milk drinker also but now only drink almond milk and love it. Give it a try!

      Sue

    • Char Wilcox

      Lenore,

      I am like you I enjoy eating more veggies and I loved drinking my milk, but because I am trying to be healthier, I have started drinking Almond Milk. I find it very pleasant and better for me, so that is what matters.

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