I thank you all for posting your questions during ‘Ask Vivian Week’. I am really excited that the Save Our Bones community is so active and intelligently inquisitive.
There were no less than 925 questions submitted and I wish I could answer them all…
But I promise you that there will be other Ask Vivian weeks in the future. And remember this quote from Bernard Baruch: “Millions saw the apple fall, but Newton asked why” – so continue to ask ‘why’.
Till next time,
Question & Answer #1
I have the Osteoporosis Reversal Program and am keen to stop taking medication and calcium/vitamin D, prescribed a couple of years ago, after a bad fall led to a spinal fragility fracture. I have discussed this with my GP and also acupuncurist/nutritionalist.
I am 63 years of age and active and also practice yoga etc.
Is there any specific additional advice you are able to give, please, for someone in my position? My father had osteoporosis and his spine ‘crumbled’ badly towards the end of his life – (he died aged 92). I obviously wish to avoid following that possible ‘inherited pattern’. Thank you.
-Jill
Dear Jill,
It sounds as though you really are on the right path! To answer your question, I’d like to clarify that, contrary to what mainstream medicine would like us to believe, there isn’t a known genetic pattern for osteoporosis.
You surely know from the Osteoporosis Reversal Program that osteoporosis is not a disease, so this is actually not surprising. It makes sense that there isn’t a demonstrable inheritance pattern for quantitative bone loss. However, an inheritance pattern may exist for peak bone mass. Here’s a quote from an article published in Endocrine Reviews by M. Peacock. M.D. et al. (2002):
“There is evidence that there are several regions that harbor genes affecting both peak bone mass and femoral structure. As these studies expand and progress, they will confirm or refute the initial results.”
First of all, I find it fascinating that mainstream scientists actually acknowledge genes that may determine peak bone mass. Here’s why. The relatively new osteoporosis parameters compare the bone density of a middle-aged person to the average standardized bone density of a randomly selected group of women in their 20’s of which we know nothing about. Remember that we reach peak bone mass precisely within that age span. If peak bone mass is determined by genes, then the “standard” bone mass used to measure bone loss is flawed from the get-go. What if peak bone mass genes vary within geographical areas or inheritance patterns that may be recessive rather than dominant gene expressions? The answer is obvious.
So my additional advice to you is that you shouldn’t fall for scare tactics based on a mythical osteoporosis inheritance pattern. Continue to follow the Osteoporosis Reversal Program, knowing that you are not tampering with your bone metabolism.
I wish you and yours a long and healthy life.
-Vivian
Question & Answer #2
Dear Vivian,
As I am on Warfarin, I am not allowed to take any other medication for osteoporosis, so how can I improve my bone density? Please help.
Thank you,
-Nelson
Dear Nelson,
Consider it a blessing in disguise. Osteoporosis drugs are a short-sighted solution and may cause a slew of undesirable side-effects. So the Osteoporosis Reversal Program is a great way for you to have strong and healthy bones and to improve your bone density without ever risking dangerous and debilitating side effects.
Since you are currently taking the blood thinner Warfarin (Coumadin), I recommend you stick to the program as much as possible. Anticoagulant drugs have been linked to an increased risk of fractures. Here’s why: warfarin inhibits Vitamin K, best known as essential for the production of blood clotting factors. But Vitamin K is also related to osteocalcin, or bone Gla protein, which binds calcium and works with Vitamin D. Vitamin K is important to proper bone formation, and for that reason it is one of the Foundation Supplements in the Osteoporosis Reversal Program. So you should consult with your doctor before taking Vitamin K. He or she can adjust the warfarin dosage as needed.
In good health,
-Vivian
Question & Answer #3
Where I live the soil is very acidic, and my tap water has a pH of 4.0. You mentioned somewhere that you recommend distilled water for drinking and cooking. I would like to understand better the effect of water and its pH on my body, as it is such a basic part of what I ingest. Thank you!
-Judith
Dear Judith,
Indeed, water is crucial to bone health and general health as well. There are several problems with tap water, besides its acidic pH: it contains many toxic and acidifying chemicals that we should not ingest. As I explain in great detail in the Osteoporosis Hydration Protocol, a book that is part of the Osteoporosis Reversal Program, besides chlorine, chloramines, and other undesirable chemicals used to disinfect tap water, fluoride is of great concern to your bone health.
Fluoride, a poison used mainly for pest control, is added for the purpose of preventing tooth decay. It not only has failed to show any clear benefits to dental health, many scientific studies confirm that fluoride increases the risk of fractures.
On the other hand, distilled water is obtained by collecting what has been turned into vapor, so that in effect all the impurities are left behind. Because distilled water is made of only two hydrogen atoms and one oxygen atom, it produces a negative ion reaction in the body, and is therefore alkaline forming.
There is misinformation about this as well: distilled water does test acidic for its pH. However – and this is what makes it so beneficial – because it is negatively charged, it attracts the positively charged acidic waste products and flushes them out of your body. Perhaps that is why another common myth about distilled water is that it causes essential minerals to leach out of the body.
To your bone health!
-Vivian
Question & Answer #4
I’m trying to eat 80% “alkaline-producing food and 20% acid-producing food but don’t seem to be able to eat that way yet. I eat about 70% alkaline-producing food. My urine pH is usually 6.5 to 7.0 first thing in the morning. Is this good enough to save my bones?
-Bonnie
Dear Bonnie,
Congratulations! Your pH is within the desirable range for optimal bone health. Here’s proof that even if you don’t follow everything in the Osteoporosis Reversal Program, you can (and will) “save your bones”.
Keep up with the program and relax knowing that you are building your bones naturally.
-Vivian
Question & Answer #5
1. Are your recommendations equally valid for men?
2. Is Protelos as different from the other bone building products as they say?
3. Does Glucosamine help or is still unproven?
-Richard
Dear Richard,
Even though women are more likely to be diagnosed with osteoporosis than men are, the recommendations in the Osteoporosis Reversal Program apply equally to both. Actually, there is a section titled Men and Osteoporosis in Chapter 1 of the manual.
Protelos is one of the brand names for Strontium Ranelate. It is different in that strontium is a naturally occurring element. However, Protelos is combined with ranelic acid, a purely synthetic molecule. Protelos has its own list of side effects, such as nausea, diarrhea, headaches, fainting, and blood clots. Studies have shown that strontium mainly thickens the outer cortical portion of bones.
Regarding your last question, glucosamine is typically recommended for joint aches as in the case of osteoarthritis. It is produced in the body by the combination of glucose with the amino acid glutamine. Studies have shown that glucosamine helps slow degeneration of cartilage and relieves pain. In addition, glucosamine has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant factors.
Stay healthy and curious,
-Vivian
Question & Answer #6
I am excited to try your program, however, I do take 50 mcg of synthyroid med. I read that it depletes calcium in the body. Do I take more calcium than what is recommended?? And, will this med affect any chance of overcoming osteoporosis?
-Allison I.
Dear Allison,
Synthroid is one of the most prescribed drugs in North America. Studies have shown that taking Synthroid with calcium supplements can decrease the drug’s absorption. All you have to do is take your calcium supplement four hours after you take Synthroid. You don’t need to increase the calcium supplementation.
Warm regards,
-Vivian
Question & Answer #7
My T -scores are bad. Why can I expect up to only a 20% improvement with a diet change…why not a 50% or 75% improvement?
-Donna W.
Dear Donna,
First of all, keep in mind that T-scores don’t provide the whole bone health picture. They only give an indication of density, and there’s a lot more to your bone health than just density. But of course, you want to increase your bone density as much as possible without tampering with your bone metabolism. That’s where the Osteoporosis Reversal Program can really help.
You can most certainly expect more than a 20% bone density score improvement. My own bone density scores increased by that much in one year, but many in the Save Our Bones community have experienced greater increases.
Here is one example, posted at Save Our Bones on June 16th, 2010:
“My mother was confronted by her doctor with evidence of decreasing bone density, and one of these drugs was recommended. I told her NO and we began the Osteoporosis Reversal Program. I have the density scans that verify we increased her bone density by 50% in TWO YEARS! Keep telling EVERYONE about this vital information.”
– Claus
So believe in your bones, and believe in yourself!
-Vivian
Question & Answer #8
I’m 62, took a hard fall in June and broke my wrist. Bone Density test results are T-scores of 2.8 & 3.0 for hips and 4.6 for my spine. Dr. gave me instructions to take 2000 mg Calcium, 800 iu Vitamin D, limited exercise and Boniva. I have read your information, reviewed the Boniva warnings and now need to make the decision whether to take drugs or not. I asked the Dr if I can improve my T-score without Boniva. He said, “No, your 4.6 is too serious. Boniva is necessary to stop the bone loss and limit the risk of fracture, vitamins and exercise alone will not do it”. Are there any statistical results to indicate this statement is based on fact. Do you have any results from your clients with numbers as bad as mine, to share improvement results? Thank you for your work and focus on our challenge with osteoporsis.
-Nancy
Dear Nancy,
Your doctor is wrong in saying that 4.6 is too serious a T-score to improve it without taking drugs. Because no matter how much bone loss you may have, your bones can regenerate themselves (if you know what to do) and you can increase your bone density naturally. Dr. Karl Insogna, Director of the Bone Center at Yale School of Medicine says that
“We tend to think of the skeleton as an inert erector set that holds us up and doesn’t do much else. That’s not true. Every bit as dynamic as other tissues, bone responds to the pull of muscles and gravity, repairs itself, and constantly renews itself.”
Your doctor is also recommending too much calcium. If you haven’t yet, read my article on calcium and heart attacks to understand why 2000 mg of calcium is excessive.
Your doctor is right in that vitamins and exercise alone will not do it: you also need to apply the simple yet revolutionary nutritional guidelines of the Osteoporosis Reversal Program. Thousands are improving their T-scores with the program. Below is one example of many posted on April 30th, 2010. Notice the huge improvement in the spinal T-scores:
“I am 61. About 2 1/2 years ago I stopped Fosamax due to heart palpitations. Thankfully, I came across Vivian and ordered the program. I decided to a calcium supplement called Cal Apatite Forte. In one year my bone density results went from -3.1 in the spine to -1.9 and -1.9 in the hip to -1.4. I am in awe of this. Thanks, Vivian…”
In good health,
-Vivian
Question & Answer #9
Recently I paid a visit to my health care provider when I was questioned about what I am taking in the way of pharmaceuticals for my “osteoporosis”, I promptly told her I was following your recommendation of modifying my diet to cut out processed foods, and to eat a variety of fruits and vegetables which you recommended in your program.
Well, she just about came unglued – saying things such as “what credentials did this person you) have, what studies have been done, have I examined both sides of the argument, and finally giving me the standard warning that if I didn’t take bisphosphonates (such as Actonel or Reclast), that I was at very high risk for fractures which could result in my demise. My question to you now is, what studies can I point her to, so that she can see what else there is besides pharmaceutical companies claiming that they have the ultimate “cure” for osteoporosis? Thanks Vivian.
Sincerely,
- Carole K.
Dear Carole,
There are many studies that confirm alternative bone health solutions other than prescription drugs. In fact, the Osteoporosis Reversal Program has a bibliography of over 100 scientific studies published in mainstream journals. Here are some examples: Journal of Bone Mineral Research, Endocrinology, American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, New England Journal of Medicine… Indeed, the list is long. I think that your doctor should not only look at the studies; he or she should read the Osteoporosis Reversal Program.
Best regards,
-Vivian
Question & Answer #10
How long on your program diet will it take to get back to an acceptable level. I am currently -3.7 & have followed your program strictly since buying your book 18 months ago.
-Ken N.
Dear Ken,
There are many variables that can affect bone remodeling, so it is very difficult (if not impossible) to predict the time frame for a bone density improvement. The good news is that I’ve received emails from community members that have gotten rid of osteoporosis in as little as six months!
But what you need to keep in mind is that bone density is not the only bone health indicator. Mainstream medicine needs clear-cut numbers for the purpose of prescribing drugs, so the T-score is used as a guideline for this purpose. It is important to remember that the main goal is to prevent crippling fractures, and that thicker and “older” bone is more prone to fracture than renewed and younger bone.
So continue with the Osteoporosis Reversal Program and know that you are doing what’s right for your bones and your general health. I’m sure you’ll get outstanding results!
Hi Vivian,,,,thank you for your great work!
If yogurt is ok, how’s frozen yogurt if it is natural and contains the yogurt properties such as Edy’s or Publix brand?
Why is yogurt okay? It is a dairy product made from milk which
is tabu if one is to follow a dairy free diet.
My GP has sent me for x rays and told me my lower back and leg pain is due to wear and tear,apart from painkillers what can I do to help this? I feel some days I am going to end up in a wheelchair. Would be grateful for any advice. Thanks.
Hallo Vivian
I take a calcified seaweed supplement. Now I am wondering – is this organic calcium or is it calcium adhering to the seaweed?
Many thanks, Christine
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.
Is taking coral calcium better than other calciuum supplements? I was told that it is more absorbable. If not, what would you recommend? Thank you.
My doctor recently told me that my Creatine Kinase has been elevated, and that there is muscle damage. I have been taking several vitamins including D3, calcium aspartate. He wants me to do a blood work and return to him early September. Would you know what caused this damage?
I am having very little success in this program. I tried buying the type of calcium you suggest, but find it anywhere.
I also need a daily chart to check how I am doing, once a week is too hard to remember and keep me on track. I have changed your wkly chart to a daily chart.
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?
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 cos they are too frightened of the industry backlash
What is the link between strong bones and hormones?
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 imitex as needed for my migraines. I have been taking calcium chews for the past 3 years. I also started taking b-12, 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 Save Our Bones 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 extensive 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
P.S. I live in South Florida (West Palm Beach) and I see your just south of me….
dear Vivian ………….. I’m wondering if you have an opinion about the Powerplate being a helpful additional method to increase bone density. I hear that the vibration has a positive effect on boke growth by stimulating the process. Thank you for your time and comment. SASCHA
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.
Christine
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?
Vivian,
What are the natural sources like food, veg etc from which one can get Calcium and vitamin D.
Does yogart and butter milk have calcium besides milk.
Thankyou for your help,
Bakula
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.
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 remodelling 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?
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 intervenious 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
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.
After being diagnosed with severe osteoporosis 2 years ago and encouraged to begin Forteo injections, I made 3 changes and decided NOT to take any drugs. I changed my calcium supplement from calcium carbonate to calcium citrate and spread it throughout the day for better absorption, ate a more alkaline diet (I didn’t eliminate all protein because it’s required to maintain muscle), and ate 10 prunes daily after reading about the prune study. The bone density in my spine increased by 26.3 percent!!!! The dr.s are amazed by this significant change. There are many opinions on what is beneficial to bone health and I don’t know if what I did would work for you. But these 3 changes along with continued exercise (which alone did nothing for my bones) have made a huge difference for me.
What are the simplest and easiest exercises to do daily that will save the bones of 60 plus folks?
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.
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 absorp 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 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
WHAT ARE THE BEST EXERCISES FOR LEGS – KNEES ESPECIALLY TO AVOID REPLACEMENTS WOULD RATHER BUILD MYSELF UP AND AVOID REPLACEMENTS.
HAVE PHSORATIC ARTHRITIS. 5THANK YU FOR ANY HELP,
How often can we eat and is chocolate allowed.
Hi Vivian,
I just sent you a long message and it was cut off by the advertisement to your new book. Very annoying that I must re-write my question.
Please tell me exactly what type of vitamin D must be used when taking it for low vitamin D levels in the body and also to help the absorption of calcium into my bones since I am taking reflux medication. I am on 50,000 units presently, but am not sure if it is the type you had mentioned is necessary. This is a shorter version, as I don’t have the time to go again into detail about my osteoporosis and reflux problem.
Thanks. Janice
Vivian,
Do you know anything about the success in using Total Vibration Therapy i
Dear Vivian: My back feels as though I have muscle strain upper, middle and lower. Is this typical of Osteoperosis or is it possible I am over working my back muscles with exercise, painting rooms in the house, lifting grand children etc? Also we could use more back strengthening exercises. I hope to hear from you.
Why not answer all questions over time to individuals — they need answers not spin.
Hi Vivian
I have recently ordered my package and anxiously waiting for my book to arrive so I can start this program.
After seeing the specialist a few weeks ago, I googled a bit of my own research when I came across your program. My specialist wants to follow up with me in a couple months a few weeks after I have blood test and another x-ray done so she can see if my prescribed daily increase of Vit D and calcium has made a difference yet!?
If not, she would like to start me on MEDS which I don’t want to do
(and I won’t if I can help it).
I lost an inch in 10 years – I am now only 52.
My question is:
With a daily increase of Vitamin D and Calcium, is 2 months enough time to actually make that much of a difference be apparent?
One way or another, I do plan on postponing this follow up appointment so when I do go for my tests, I will be absolutely sure I show a positive results. I can’t wait to see the look on specialist’s face because she sounded pretty convinced that going on medication is my last and only option. I overheard her say she doesn’t have time to see a patient 10 times so her decisions would be hard-pressed.
Here’s another quick question..
Do you know if having too many x-rays are bad for your bones?
Looking forward to your comments and my package….
Sincerely,
Linda
I declined the invasive treatment for osteoporosis and went instead for ‘ADCAL’ – 1 large round tablet morning and evening. I have been taking these for probably a couple of years now. I’m suddenly worried that the calcium in the tablet is the sort derived from washing powder. Can you let me know if I’m doing the right thing by taking these. I do have a good diet – don’t eat meat but do eat plenty of veg, nuts, oats etc. I live in the UK so maybe you haven’t heard of ADCAL???? Incidentally, thinking back, I have had tummy problems for a couple of years, including bouts of diarohhea (however you spell it!). Would love to hear your take on these tablets.
Best wishes Angela
HAVE YOU ANY INFORMATION ON A MINERAL CALLED
STRONTIUM
I am urged to include Vitamin K in my diet to help strengthen bones. Yet because I take blood thinners Vitamin K is not recommended. What am I to do? Thanks for all the good you do for us. Elan.
Hi Vivian,
Although I know how very important managing our diet is to bone health, I wondered if you are aware of any organic supplement to balance pH on those days (or sometimes weeks) where watching our diet is overwhelming?
Thanks,
Diane
Hi Vivian I have asked many times without a reply.
How long on your program diet will it take to get back to an acceptable level. I am currently -3.7 & have followed your program strictly since buying your book 18 months ago.
I have been prescribed Adcal D3 (equivalent to 600mg calcium and 400iu vit D3) x twice daily and due to the latest scare re the increased incidence of heart/stroke problems in relation to calcium intake, I have decided to stop taking them forthwith.
I have a varied fresh diet and walk/exercise frequently.
My question:
Would substituting calcium tablets with a good teaspoonful of Tahini night and morning offer sufficient calcium in natural form along with plenty of fresh fruit/veg and soya milk.
Irene Weller
Dear Vivian,
I have 5 kidney stones which have never posed a pain or a problem, and have been diagnosed with 42% bone loss in my spine. I have recently been told by my urologist to take a calcium supplement that was especially formulated for people with bone loss and kidney stones. It contains Calcium citrate, magnesium stearate, D3, K1, stontium and boron.
He also advised me to eat a calcium rich diet but to eat things like spinach, chard and okra
in moderation. He also advised me to drink at least 2 litres of filtered water with lemon each day. What are your thoughts?
Respectfully submitted,
Krista
Good Morning, Vivian. I have been “consulting” you for over a year now since I was diagnosed with osteopenia and my doctor, whom I trust very much, wanted to start me on Fossamax. After reading all the info about this drug and others, naturally I wanted to search out alternative treatments that don’t carry the risks that these medicines do. As a nurse and fitness instructor, I’m quite in tune with my body and have been so very fortunate to learn more about osteoporosis from you. My question: what are the heredity risks for osteoporosis? My 15 year old daughter has been started on Calcium with D 600 mg QD per her pediatrician to supplement a weight loss program. Is there something else at her age that I should have her do to prevent this disease?
Once you change your diet how long will it take to rebuild the bones so your no longer at risk?
What is the best calcium to take and amount for a person 5′ tall and weighs 108 pounds?
Hello Vivian,
Since being diagnosed with Osteoporosis at the age of 52, the MD wanted to write a scrip for Fosomax, but I refused. I upped the amount of Citrical I took. A year later, my bone density showed a no change on the femoral neck, but a decrease in the lumbar. He then suggested Boniva and scared me into taking the scrip. After reading all the indications researching the side effects I decided not to take it. I researched extensively on the Web and found EZorb, an anhydrous calcium aspartate. The reviews were astounding. I’ve been using EZorb for 3 years now. My femoral neck improved from -3.8 to -2.7. Lumbar stayed the same. Have you done any research to the pros and cons of EZorb?
I’m taking calcium aspartate anhydrous
and marvlix.
any comments.
Mike
What kind of calcium suppliment do you suggest? Lately I have heard that plant based is the best. How do you get a plant based calcium and which brand would that be? I have gastritis so can’t take one with citrate or digestive enzymes.
I am a 77 year old female. Have been on Fosamax for 5+ years & have shown no improvement in bone density (I’m now at -3.5).
Doctor has recommended Reclast but I’m reluctant to substitute one drug for another.
Saw your Save Our Bones program & am interested in starting it. Are there cases in which even that won’t work??? Still want to try it.
Hi I am very confusead now take calcium or not?
Vivian-
Have you heard of vibration plate therapy for osteoporosis? NASA had done some work with this, but I would like to hear your opinion. I don’t want to take Fosomax, etc., although my MD would like me to do so. Do you have any idea if a vibration plate is good therapy for bones?
Thanks so much,
Gerry
I have M.S. and one of the therapies that helps me stay upright is an iv of 1gm of SOLUMEDROL every 28 days. This has caused my bones to start to deteriorate. Is there any thing over and above your recommendations that I should consider? Thanks, Wayne Mann
This is not a question, just a thank you. Most people I know think I am crazy for embracing your theories – however, I feel it is the best thing for me to do. Only time will prove them wrong. Your encouragement and insights are quite helpful to me in what seems to be an otherwise lonely battle against “the establishment’s” idea of how I should live my life.
Vivian – my doctors are pushing Prolia! Am 72; 5’5″;weigh 105; blood pressure 120/75; don’t exercise much but am trying your regime; have been on Fosomax 2-1/2 yrs; reclast last year; and am being pressured by everyone to follow my Doctors advice. Broke both rists; pins in rt hip; and recently a bone in my back from stretching. Obvious the biophosonates don’t work! (Was told took them too late in life). What about strontium renelade? Is Prolia another name for Alendronate? Am always “stiff”, hve balance issues – am taking 2000 VitD + 1000 Calcium + numerous vitamins per your suggestions. Have read a lot about Prolia including the successful results for fractures. The other effects are troubling – jaw, immune system degradation;loss of calcium; dizziness, etc. I need your help? Barbara
I’ve recently read that taking Prilosec for acid reflux increases your loss of bone density. What’s one to do if they suffer from acid reflux?
Hi Vivian, I have rheumatoid and osteo arthritis. 2 days ago I was diagnosed with arrythmia (a very high heartbeat 210 instead of 60. Do you know if arrythmia has any effect on these arthritis’s or even the reverse. I’ve read your book and am eating more healthy. I also have access to Better Balance website. I’m still on arava and methotextrate but 3 months ago all the rheumatoid factors were down to normal. I’m taking Natural Joint and Ultimate Bone Support. I’m also going to get another bone densoty san in a couple of months. Is there anything else I should be doing. I’ve lent your book to someone so I can’t refer to it any more. Thanks, Kay Mulholland.