I’m always working to listen to the needs of our community and to make your battle with osteoporosis as easy as possible. So I’m happy to announce that this week is the second “Ask Vivian Week”.
Here’s What ‘Ask Vivian Week’ is All About
Simply post your question by leaving a comment below before Thursday, June 21st. Please only post one question.
The questions I receive during ‘Ask Vivian Week’ will be answered throughout the year as part of our hugely popular ‘Vivian Answers Day’ series.
On June 28th, I will select five questions and will post my in-depth answers to them right here on the blog. Then throughout the year, I will continue answering five questions on a regular basis.
This is your chance to ask me your most pressing bone health related question.
It can be ANYTHING you’ve always wanted to know. Your question can range from a general bone health concern to a question relating to your specific situation, or even a question you may have regarding the Osteoporosis Reversal Program.
Don’t hold anything back…
I’m here to listen and to answer. Ask your question now.
I’m thrilled that so many of you enjoy and benefit from the past editions of ‘Vivian Answers Day’, and am excited to continue answering a brand new crop of your questions.
My warmest regards,
Recently I heard that taking Vitamin D and Calcium ( especially Calcium) supplements are harmful and that we should get them from foods that we eat. This can be very difficult especially Vitamin D and my understanding is that the older you are the more difficult it is to get enough Vitamin D from the sun also sun is damaging to the skin.
How much Calcium do you think is safe? What about Vitamin D?
I seem not to like any calcium but then i tried cal-mag caps and then it seem like i heard do not take any. trying to reread the -ultimate book info but have not got far enough to talk myself into anything. Is a calcium pill really worth taking at all. sometime yes and sometime no to me??
I recently bought a vibration machine-called Crazy Fit-in hopes of benefiting my bones. It is 112 in the desert now and it is almost impossible to walk outside. do you think this was a ghood idea?
Can you reccomend or know of company making the calcium formula you mention.,
Hi Vivian!
I already acquired your save our bones program and read it front to back. I am defintely giving it a try.
I am a 33 year old male, and was diagnosed with Osteopenia about 2 years ago. I am otherwise very healthy and have always been very active. In fact I came to know I had osteopenia after I broke my tibia while skateboarding, it healed and then a year after that I broke my knee while surfing. It was then when I asked the doctor to give me a Bone Scan which revealed I had Osteopenia. It was a real shocker.
I had numerous endocrine, blood, etc tests done and everything seems normal. My hormone levels are normal, calcium blood levels are normal, etc. The only thing that was not normal is that I had excess urinary excretion of calcium and I was also forming kidney stones. They really dont know why this is happening.
I was just given diuretics (diurace 12.5 https://www.clinicasanantoniosac.com.pe/web/medicamentos/PLM/productos/33536.htm) and took it for 1 year. Although it helped lower my calcium urine excretion -but still it didnt bring it all the way down to the normal levels- I had also a new DEXA scan done in the same place and it showed that my bone mass had deteriorated a bit more in a 1 year span.
Do you have any special suggestions for me other than following your program given I have this elevated calcium urine excretion? Is it common that people with Osteoporosis or Osteopenia to have excess clacium in the urine?
I have to say I used to ingest a lot of Dairy, plus I also had elevated animal protein on my diet.
Thanks and hope you can give me some pointers to help restore my bone health and be able to surf again without any worries.
Domingo
I am 60 years old and in pretty good health, except that I had a bone scan 2 years ago and showed Osteopenia so I started a program of daily following a diet rich in calcium, weight bearing exercises and walking, hoping that it will help me to reverse or at least maintain the level, but this week i had a bone scan, and doctor told me that now I have 3.2 Osteoporosis and need to start thinking about the last medicine which he said will help me to at least maintain this level of Osteoporosis. The medicine is Prolia and he said it is $800 for a 6 month injection. He gave me a brochure to read it, and i do not even know what to do now. I have been receiving your newsletter, and i am saving money to buy your books,please what is your advice, I am a petite latina, and many of my friends are already taking Actonel. Thanks for your reply.
On and off in the last 3 or so years, due to specific symptoms I’ve resorted to taking Nexium but take no other prescriptions, just some very good supplements. Diet and blood work are excellent but I am concerned about how this affects my bones. When I stop it for a couple of months, I am suddenly blindsided with symptoms similar to heart attack symptoms and have gone to emergency when it is at it’s worst but heart wise am okay. I then go back on the Nexium which tends to get everything fine again. Not sure how to get off it but will try again in the future. In the meantime how are my bones being affected by the Nexium? I am 62 years old, quite healthy otherwise, up ladders, bending, twisting, pushing/carrying weight etc. while working in our tomato greenhouse and have quite good energy.
Just wanted to know if taking whey protein powder would make my osteoporsis
worse since it is a milk product? I am trying to build body mass since we loose a lot as we age.
I just received a copy of my latest Bone Density Test.
B.M.D. STUDY
This study was performed on our new Lunar Prodigy machine. A direct comparison with patient’s previous examination of July 2010 is not possible.
This examination will serve as the new baseline for this patient.
It is noted that the patient is on a remineralization regime.
The T-score in the lumbar area from L1 to L4 is . The Z score is -1.0. The mineralization value of 0.800 gms/cm2 is seen. The above value shows an increase from the last study in the lumbar area.
The T-score in the femoral neck area i -2.4, the Z score is -0.2. The mineralization value of 0.707 gms/cm2 is seen. The mineralization in area also shows an increase from the last study.
Both values are in the osteoporotic range. A high risk fracture rate category is seen. A follow-up study in 1 year is suggested.
Can you please explain to me what that means? For the last two years I am following your advice. I do the things you recommend and I take no drugs. Of course, my doctor cries “foul” after each bone density test. Could you take a look at this one please? I just picked it up at my doctor’s office. It looks to me that I am improving. Am I correct in this? Should I worry about this or just go on with what I am doing?
I really would appreciate your opinion.
Thank you for doing an excellent job in helping us,
Inge
I’ve been taking calcium (blend of calcium carbonate, dicalcium phosphate, calcium citrate, calcium amino acid oligfructose complex) with vitamin D for years. I am vegetarian and do not drink milk and have only minimal dairy in my diet. In addition to trying to stay on an alkaline diet and exercise should I give up the calcium supplements? Thank you so much for all you are doing to help so many.
Do you have a recepi book? If not are you going to make one?
Thanks
Is strontium a safe and helpful supplement to take for osteoporosis? If the answer is no, please tell us why? I enjoy your news very much and have passed your website on to others. Blessings, Jean
I try to follow an alkaline diet as much as possible, walk several times a week, make sure I stay active, take calcium (recently switched to Ezorb). However, I have also been taking Evista for a number of years. My doctors encourage this because my sister and aunt had breast cancer. However, I know you recommend not taking any prescription for osteoporosis. I’d appreciate your comments about this situation. Thank you.
My husband, knowledgeable in chemistry, is very critical about the whole alkaline/acidic forming ability of food in the body. Can you lead me to a source that gives a scientific explanation of how the alkalinity or acidifying potential of food is determined? Thanks!
Dear Vivian,
On a recent Dr Oz show, he recommended taking Strontium 680mg per day to increase bone strength. He also went on to say that Strontium should not be taken at the same time as your calcium supplement. I believe you have said that you do not recommend more than 5mg of Strontium in a calcium supplement. I am confused if I should continue taking my calcium supplement that does contain 5 mg of Strontium or if I should take the 680mg that Dr Oz suggests at different times than my calcium. Could you please clarify?
I would like to see this question answered. Is the 5 mg in new chapter enough strontium and could you take more strontium by itself later on in the day. Is it stomach friendly? Thanks
Hi Vivian,
Please re-state your position on Strontium Citrate. I am taking only 5 mg in my vitamin supplement but am still unsure if I shouldn’t be taking more.
Hi Jeannette,
I couldn’t have asked that question better myself!
Does a vibrating machine help osteoporosis or osteopenia?
Is a glass of Pinot Noir ok around the same time as taking a calcium tablet?
I wouldlike to know about the vibration machine also-I just bought one because it is too hot-112-to walk in the desert. I love the machine-a Crazy Fit-and it feels good but am not sure it is beneficial
that might be so but noboddy is answering my plight thank you, Gerard
why ask questions that you never see an answer for it.
YEs—where and when can we see the answers to our questions–
You might have missed Vivian’s introduction to Ask Vivian Week, where she rights,
“The questions I receive during ‘Ask Vivian Week’ will be answered throughout the year as part of our hugely popular ‘Vivian Answers Day’ series.
On June 28th, I will select five questions and will post my in-depth answers to them right here on the blog. Then throughout the year, I will continue answering five questions on a regular basis.”
So keep asking questions 🙂
Dear Vivian, I am waiting for the arrival of your book “save ourbones” I have ordered and paid for however I have also been charged for a DVD which I did not order, good you please rectify this for me. I have read your e-book “the natural bonebuilding handbook and find it very interesting and informative, thank you very much kind regards Gerard.
Have you heard of the new progam to help your bones without medicine. It is called B.Strong4Life and uses Bio Density Bone Therapy.
which toods are acidic nd wgich are alksline?
which foods are acidic and which are alkaline?
I have numerous food intolerances, so I would like to know what I can eat before exercise to replace the whey protein, I am unable to have egg, dairy, gluten, soy. I started the exercise program you sell through e-book. I am enjoying, it but need some food help. Thanks!
I am taking a supplement called Pro Bono by Ortho Molecular Products. Can you tell me if you think this is a good supplement for the bones. It is expensive.
Have been unable, so far, to track down marine algae calcium in Britain, I’ve been told it’s no different than the calcium tablets with have been proven to block arteries etc. However, I have stopped taking them but how do I know if I am getting enough calcium? I am following your Osteoporosis Reversal Programme but still not sure as I have been told I need to take 1600 mg a day. Dexa Scan shows I have Osteoporosis and osteopenia and widespread osteoarthritis.
A bit of a mess! I can’t have another scan for 3 years. Help!
I have had bypass on my heart and do have serious vascular disease and worry about the calcium making it worse-I have osteoporousis and am using Viviens program.
1. What is the name of a healthy toothpaste not having fluoride? My dentists all recomment toothpaste having fluoride. I have had implants from
bad gums.
2. What is the name of a health sunscreen?
Thank you
Hi Vivian and readers, My last bone density test shows that I have reversed my osteoporosis to osteopenia.. However I recently developed a disease called Polymyalgia and the only cure for it is prednessone. Prednesone like other steriods causes thining of the bones.How canI keep from getting worse. If you should select my comment why not combine it with others who have to take steriods for other conditions such as R.A. etc?
Please comment on the NYT article of 6/13/12 regarding the non-benefit of low doses of vit. D & calcium in healthy adults. This is getting wide reporting in the media. Does this have implications for those with osteoporosis? I’m sure you’re getting many queries from your website about the article!
Thank you.
I am wondering what the alternative is if ones bone density worsens after discontinuing actonel and following save our bones. Is there ever a time to reconsider taking medication?
I would like to hear a definitive to this legitimate question
I purchased your program and followed it…until I began experiencing more severe episodes of Kidney Stones requiring emergency surgery. What diet recommendations do you propose to those of us suffering from chronic Kidney stones who want to protect our bones & refuse to take drugs?
Hi Vivian,
Your thoughts on Braggs Apple Cider Vinegar for
nutrition, reducing acidity in the joints as
well as aiding heartburn acidity. Thank YOu.
I have the same question
did you know that heartburn is actually cause from lack of stomach acid–google it. I used the water and salt program for its benefits for 6 weeks and then quit because I found out that senior citizens are usually lacking hydrochloric acid any way and being too alkaline can be another problem–what are we to do?
Greetings Vivian;
Please explain the current media and medical reports regarding the negative side effects of taking calcium. There have been several reports including one this week in USA Today. The reports do not specify the type of calcium (carbonate, citrate or vegetarian) and the information is confusing.
Thank you for the Save Our Bones program and best wishes!
I was diagnosed with osteoporosis. Do I need to continue the calcium and Vitamin D supplements? I drink lots of milk, eat cheese and yogurt and several foods that have calcium. Since I am taking Coumadin and lanoxin for A-Fib, I have to leave off the dark green vegetables which supply Vitamin K. In readings, I learned that Vitamin K helps my bones. What can I substitute for the dark greens/Vitamin K?
Looking forward to hearing from you.
Bernice
i too am worried about getting enough Vit K as I take Warfarin for A Fib. I have osteoporosis in spine.
Hola Vivian,
Can your sale products be ordered over the phone??? If they do, I would like to have a phone number. Thank you for all you do for healthy bones! Hasta la vista!
“Mickey”
Can you explain why there is such a discrepancy in alkaline vs acidic food charts? For example, in some, grapefruit is alkaline and in others it is acidic. Same with spelt, apples, peaches, cantaloupe, brazil nuts,honey and many other foods. It’s a little confusing when you’re trying very hard to achieve the 80/20.
excellent question…
Vivian, I always wanted to know why is there so little calcium in fresh cheese, like cottage or pot. Does the calcium stay in whey after separation. If so, whey can be used for drinking (chilled) or cooking. I make my own pot cheese sometimes and used whey as a base for vegetable soup.It tastes a little tangy, but definitely tolerable, especially if it is a good source of Ca. Is it?
I have bad reflux – everything I eat causes heartburn. I have osteoporosis and would like to know what can I take besides the prescribed PPI’s since they contribute to osteoporosis. The also seem to be the only thing that stops the acid reflux.
Thanks,
Deborah
I have been following a gluten free diet for the last 2 yrs. As long as I follow that diet I am relatively free of gastrointestinal problems.
I was recently diagnosed with osteoporosis in my back. I found your program that day on the Internet. Should I be doing anything differently when following your recommendations? Do you think your program will help me.
Thanks from someone who doesn’t want to take ProLira,
Barbara
What other nutrients besides strontium and Vitamin K2 are needed for bone health? Is there a supplement that contains all of them?
I have a slight curvature of the spine which causes very tight muscles in my right shoulder and neck if they are used a lot, like in exercising. Also, I have a limited diet due intestinal difficulties, which means I can not eat a number of vegetables nor fruits–I am really limited on which ones and how much. So, in trying to follow the food plan and exercise plan I feel I may not be doing all that is necessary to improve my bones. I am in my mid 60’s, my T-Score a couple years ago was -1.9. I am tall and thin and the Dr. wanted me on one of the supplements which I refused. Any advice on how to stay with your program but adjust it to my problems? I have never had any fractures and otherwise am in good health. Thank you for your help.
Is there a way to check a person’s alkaline levels with saliva or urine tests? I found a test strip for swimming pools, and I’m in the alkaline level, but I don’t know if that is a valid test. Any suggestions? I would like an idea of how I am doing as I wait to get my next bone density test.
Thanks – Pam
You can look for the test strips on the net-I found them but dont remember where. Not too expensive. good luck-we sure do need present answers from Viv.
Try amazon
Dear Vivian,A year ago you wrote about Sherry Brescia’s books on food combining. I sent for them and have had wonderful results. No need to go into the horrible symptoms that plagued me for years. When I first began the program my nails began to crack and chip until it became a real problem for me. When I asked my dermatologist what to do for it he suggested eating more meat. I am not a meat eater as a rule; I eat a vegetarian diet and prefer it, but even when I increased meat in my diet the problem persisted. I reasearched and found a suggestion for one gram of Biotin a day. This has solved the problem and after six months my nails are once again growing and are free of chipping, etc. I am curious about why it began in the first place. Any answers for me? Please know that I am very grateful for what you do for all of us. Your books have helped me to understand a great deal. I gave up the dreadful drugs for osteoporosis and feel much better. I am glad I did not take them for a long period of time, but, in spite of that, I did develop problems and reflux–gone now. I am 85 and both my husband and I take good care of ourselves…it pays off!
F.B.
What is your opinion og the calcium supplement Ezorb. I began using it about 2 years ago but could find little information on the product other than that posted by the manufacturer. I changed to another organic based calcium but recently went back to Ezorb. I use the powder form and dissolve it in water. It requires no concomitant use of magnesium or vitamin D for absorption. I would appreciate any feedback you have to offer.
Thank you.
Nancy C.
Which is better, Ezorb or Raw Calcium by Garden of Life? Thank you.
How does a person who is 71 and diagnosed with Stenosis and degenerating discs in the neck reverse these conditions and improve range of motion and decrease pain in the neck?
Any advice you give will be greatly appreciated
Thanks
Paul
Can algae-based calcium or other supplements contribute to a rise in cholesterol, especially LDL? Other medications?
Does adding ph drops to milk negate the negative effect on my bones?
Recently I read that Vitamin K2 of sub type MK-7 was an effective means to shuttle calcium plaque from the circulatory system to our skeletal system.
Do you concur? Is this part of a useful supplementation program?
Sometimes I feel some raised bumps on my legs (calf muscles, thighs)or arms (deltoid or biceps or triceps)& one time also on my scalp with no history of trauma or bruises & they last from a few days to a week or 2 & the tenderness or soreness is felt only when I press or massage the spot. Are these caused by calcium deposits? I have osteopenia but I don’t take any prescribed medicines. I used to take calcium with magnesium & vit D3 combined supplements & other multivitamins & minerals for more than 10 years but stopped taking the cal-mag-D3 for about 2 years now & am just taking some green powder mix or making my own vitamix vegetable & fruit drink for breakfast. I also added regular aerobics & stretching 2-3X a week. My bone density scans remain stable for the past 5 years. Do I need to add Ipriflavone to my regimen? Thanks!
I am confused about calcium supplements since I recently learned of a study that says they are harmful.
I am so grateful for all the information you post and feel confident that I am improving my bones by following your programme.
Dear Vivian:
The thumbnails of both hands are bumpy and wavy. I showed them to a nutritionist at the health food store and she said that it may be because of the distilled water and that it has no minerals in it. I have been on distilled water for about a year. What do you think it could be? Frances
Hi Vivian –
Would like to know your comments on calcitonin nasal spray that my doctor prescribed recently. He suggested this when I asked him about strontium supplementation. I do have a history of thyroid problem and have been told I must take calcium supplements for life so I include calcium/magnesium in my vitamin regimen. I am 84 – and except for nodal arthritis on some fingers and some stiffness in them do not have any other problem with arthritis.
I would like what do you think of a calcium that is call EZ calcium???
I ask again, is a vibration machine good for your bones. Please answer.
good question… please answer
very good question-please answer soon. I bought the machine lst week.