When it comes to bone health, I never cease to be amazed at how the simplest thing can make the biggest difference.
Yet that seems to be the case more often than not, and it’s always fascinating to discover that something so important is easily within our grasp.
Today’s post is a perfect example, because you’ll discover the truly astonishing role of a simple molecule as it relates to the density and quality of your bones.
I’m quite sure you’ll be amazed at the scientifically-backed information on this new topic!
Water Plays A Major Role In Building Bone
Savers are aware of the importance of drinking plenty of water to keep bones healthy and strong – pure water flushes the system of impurities, helps transport minerals and vitamins to your bones, and a host of other benefits.
But you may not know that your bones are made of water. This astonishing fact was highlighted in a recent University of Michigan study which notes:
“The extraordinary toughness and stiffness of bone are associated with its three main constituents – apatite mineral, collagen protein and water.” 1
That sounds like a contradiction in terms – how can water be responsible for “the extraordinary toughness” of bone?
It Turns Out That It Has To Do With Bone Mineralization
Here is how this fascinating process works. When your bones undergo remodeling (which occurs daily), microscopic mineral crystals are deposited in the spaces between collagen fibers. (Collagen is a flexible protein matrix found in bone, skin, and other tissues.)
These crystals then grow into the areas where the collagen fibers overlap, adding “stiffness” to bone tissue. This combination of tough, flexible collagen and hard minerals creates an extremely strong tissue.
So Where Does Water Come In?
Interestingly, water is present on the surface of the crystals themselves, as well as within and between crystals and collagen fibers. Water facilitates the transport of soluble materials to and away from bone as well. In fact, “Water bridges contribute to chain stabilization.” 1
The water within your bones directly contributes to their strength, density, and their ability to renew themselves. Water is indeed one of the “three major components…associated into the basic building block of bone.” 1
Water Is One Of The Secrets To Younger Bones
The University of Michigan study notes what happens to bone tissue when it is deprived of water. When bone is dehydrated or the water is replaced with other polar solvents, it leads to disrupted chemical bonding patterns, and researchers observed tissue shrinkage and increased brittleness as a result. 1 (A polar solvent is simply a solvent that has molecular bonds with very different electronegativities, such as oxygen and hydrogen. Water itself is a polar solvent.)
Water is so important for rejuvenating bones that the Osteoporosis Reversal Program includes an entire report on the subject: The Osteoporosis Hydration Protocol. This report explains the importance of drinking pure water, and delves into the various additives – such as chlorine and fluoride – that literally pollute our drinking water.
That’s why I recommend drinking distilled water. I realize that this has become a point of controversy, but the bottom line is, distilled water is the purest form of this vital beverage that you can drink. As the research clearly shows, pure water does not leech minerals from your bones. In fact, the above research proves it’s quite the opposite!
How To Nourish Your Bones With Enough Water Each Day
We all know we should drink more water, especially in light of this astonishing research. Sometimes, it really helps to have some tips and suggestions for getting more of this vital beverage into your system every day.
I want to share some of the ideas and methods I have found particularly effective when it comes to getting more H2O.
- Set up reminders so you’ll remember to have a drink of water. You see, you need to drink even when you’re not thirsty if you want to be properly hydrated for optimal bone health. If you wait until your body reminds you, you’re already well on your way to being dehydrated.
- When you feel hungry, drink first. Surprisingly, you may be confusing your body’s thirst and hunger signals. Before reaching for a snack, drink a full glass of water and see if your food craving is satisfied.
Also, bear in mind is that juicy fruits and vegetables provide water, too. Try assuaging your hunger with a fresh apple, cucumber, tomato, peach, etc. Not only do these fruits contain a lot of water; they are alkalizing as well.
- Alternative beverages are better than nothing. Of course, drinking pure water is best, but drinking a cup of herbal tea, bone-healthy lemonade, or even coffee is better than drinking nothing at all. Coffee is acidifying and contains caffeine, and you should drink it in moderation; but if you are very thirsty and iced coffee is the only option, it’s certainly better than dehydration.
- Hydrate before working out by making water-drinking part of your workout preparation routine. Sip on a bottle of water before exercising, for example, or while you’re changing into your workout clothes. It’s a good idea to continue drinking water throughout your workout as well, but it’s easy to get involved in your workout and forget. I know I’ve done that!
- Be in the know about how much water you need. You’ve probably heard the advice to “drink 8 glasses of water a day.” That’s not a bad place to start, but everyone’s water needs are different. In fact, the same person’s need for hydration will be different on different days, depending on humidity, heat, exercise level, and so forth.
Interestingly, the Institute of Medicine recommends 91 ounces (that’s a little over 11 cups) each day for women, and 125 ounces (or around 15.5 cups) daily for men. This water can come from fruits and vegetables, too, not just from distilled water.
The Missing Link: Water
The research is undeniable: water is absolutely crucial for building strong, youthful bones that resist fracture. In fact, water is actually intermingled with the bone minerals and collagen that make up your bone tissue.
Drinking pure, distilled water is one of many easy, simple, but extremely effective steps in the Osteoporosis Reversal Program that you can take to turn back the clock on your bone health. But you may be wondering about the best source of distilled water, how much to drink, and more.
If you already have the Program, you know that I address all that and a lot more in the ‘Osteoporosis Hydration Protocol' which comes free with the Osteoporosis Reversal Program.
Inside, you’ll discover how water is the missing link to your bone health. The water you drink can make or break your bone health… that’s why I was surprised to discover that mainstream medicine doesn’t address this issue. Join me as together we explore the missing link to your bone health. You’ll also discover…
- The chemical lurking in your water that increases bone fractures – especially hip fractures.
- The simple way to check if your water contains this chemical.
- The inexpensive way to filter out this and other dreaded chemicals from your water. Don’t waste your money on other filters, pitchers, etc.
- Stay away from this type of tea if you want to build healthy bones and keep them that way. Don’t worry, there are plenty of bone-healthy teas you can drink.
- Simple solutions to minimize your exposure to toxic chemicals while in the shower.
- And a lot more.
If you don't have the Program yet, learn more and get yours here. Your bones will thank you.
Till next time,
References
1 Raghaven, Mekhala. “Investigation of Mineral and Collagen Organization in Bone Using Raman Spectroscopy.” University of Michigan. 2011. PDF. https://deepblue.lib.umich.edu/bitstream/handle/2027.42/84443/mekhala_1.pdf
You May Also Like These Related Articles:
Science Says This Is The Best Way To Stay Hydrated (And Why It Really Matters For Your Bones)
Solve These 3 Bone Health Issues By Simply Drinking More Water
Why Dr. Weil Is Dead Wrong About FluorideComments on this article are closed.
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I have a small rainwater tank, which collects off just 1 small shed, which is washed down before a good rain with the pipe closed and then connected up when a good shower comes. It is then sealed off again when full and we do this every year.
Is rainwater good for us?-
Air has a lot of pollution and rain collects that pollution when its in cloud form and when it travels through the air.
short answer: no
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I think Kangen Water can help…
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One of the websites listed distilled water as acidic:
http://www.pHreshproducts.com
Any comment?-
Indeed, the pH of distilled water is acidic (5.4) – but it is negatively charged, and in nature, opposites attract. Toxic acidic waste is positively charged (and so are cancerous cells). Distilled water drags out the acids that can wreak havoc in your body. With a few drops of lemon juice, it’s even more effective.
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Hi,
How about Kangen Water?…
1. Super Cellular Hydration – Assist the body to rebuild itself
2. Micro-Clustered Water – Hydrates the body 6 times faster
3. High Negative ORP – Very high Anti-Oxidant
4. Powerful Anti-Oxidant – Slows down aging
5. Eliminates Free Radicals – Restores the body to its “Original State”
6. Powerful Anti-Inflammatory – Reduces swelling
7. Optimum Delivery of Nutrients – Enhances absorption
8. Detoxifies & Neutralizes Acidity – Disease can’t exist in an alkaline body
9. Very Alkaline PH 9.5-
Love this blog hoping to reverse my ostioperosis. Vivian you are my biggest insperation !!!
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The ORP of Kangen Water is around -435 up
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Dear Vivian.
I bought the Osteoporosis Reversal Program a few years ago. My edition does not have a chapter on “The Missing Link.” Is it possible to buy a copy as a supplement to my old SOB program?
On another matter, my local pharmacist had recently recommended collagen powder to a couple of friends who have joint problems. Would it be helpful to someone with mild osteoporosis?
Thanks for all your ongoing information and marvelous web site.
Maureen -
Dear Vivian
I would like to buy the book on how to save your bones and revers
Osteoporosis doctors said they cant do anything for me as none of the drugs have. I would like to know how much the book costs in English
money so I can order it.
marion.-
Hi Marion,
We’re glad you’re here! You can learn all about Vivian’s Osteoporosis Reversal Program and other materials at this link:
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Well my mother would have applauded your remarks as she was the greatest advocate of drinking water I ever heard
Thanks for all your great works
Very best Marion -
can you please advise if boiled water can replaced distilled water. thank you
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Hi Lilette,
Boiling water is not the same as distilling, although the Waterwise does boil the water. 🙂 Here’s how it works. If you simply boil tap water on the stove, that will kill pathogens and remove some of the chlorine. But boiling decreases water volume, so you’re left with higher concentrations of toxins like lead and fluoride.
On the other hand, steam distilling boils the water but collects the steam, leaving the impurities behind. The collected steam is the distilled water that you drink. 🙂
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Hi Vivian, Thank you for the continuing information. You have just reminded me to drink more water. I keep forgetting.
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You’re welcome, Micky. It is easy to forget, especially when the weather cools off and we don’t feel hot and thirsty so often!
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Thank you Vivian for all your advice and emails,
I am trying my best with the Program but have not embarked on changing the water I drink yet! I am due to have another Dexa scan soon and an half terrified of not improving though I feel a lot stronger now than 18 months ago after breaking my hip.
A note to Susan:
I was interested to hear your bone density changed a lot over a two year period and that you attribute this to drinking Reverse Osmosis water. Could you please tell us the amount of change to your bones?-
I went from osteopenia to the normal range. But I cheated a LOT on the program. I can’t prove it was the water obviously, but that’s what I think it is. I’ll know soon if I stayed in the normal range as another Dexa is coming up. I carry a water bottle everywhere I go. I’m thinking if you don’t make any other changes, change your water some kind of way. Got to get rid of the fluoride. I think that’s a big part of it along with diet.. In the beginning I used to haul distilled water from Whole Foods, a hassle. Then got the RO system. Worth every penny.
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11 glasses of water a day? I’m a 97 lb. 74 year old small woman and it’s as much as I can do to get 6 glasses without feeling almost ill .
Please comment. -
I appreciate your passion for bone health. I bought the Osteoporosis Reversal Program a few years ago. It has copyright 2008-20010 and includes the endorsement by Dr Robert Bruce Salter. This edition does not have a chapter on “The Missing Link.” Is there a link on your website where I could download that chapter?
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I purchased your water distiller about 2 years ago. I feel really good about not getting the chlorine, fluoride, medicinal residue and other thing ‘not good for you’.
I do have concerns though, in that some doctors consider distilled water ‘dead water’, in that it no longer has any minerals, and the other things the body needs. I’ve read adding a small amount of baking soda to the water is a good thing or adding a little bit of pink salt. I’ve also heard that we can easily add some minerals to the water before we drink it.
What is your opinion of this?
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Hi Christine,
I prefer to get minerals from foods and keep drinking pure H2O. 🙂 There are plenty of opportunities to get vitamins, minerals, and nutrients from the foods we eat and, when necessary, from bioavailable supplements.
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My reverse osmosis tech says he can install an alkaline filter on the system. Would this be an improvement for bones, since it adds calcium and magnesium to the purified water? Also, what is your take on Kangen water, which is also alkaline water, or alkaline drops or lemon in water?
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I read a while back that the amount of water you should drink also depends on your weight (half your weight in ounces) For instance if you weigh 100 lbs you need 50 ounces of water daily. Do you agree?
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Again, I think that’s a great place to start. But I am not a fan of “cookie cutter” recommendations when it comes to health. 😉
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I googled the difference between RO and distilled water. Someone said that distilled water can leach out of the body alkaline minerals. What has your research said about that? Thank you.
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My massage therapist has the water system that makes Alkaline water. Are you familiar with this system. Others advise against distilled water as having adverse affects on the body. I appreciate your messages, I recommend some of you exercises to our Silver Sneakers instructors.
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Dear Vivian,
Thank you very much for this excellent information
regarding water.
Have a wonderful day. Marlene -
I would like to see the studies done proving the theory of 8 glasses of water a day. I was shocked!! Readers should Google for “Research studies proving 8 glasses of water” or “Benefits of drinking 8 glasses of water Research”. WHERE ARE THE STUDIES?? I found pages of articles calling this the URBAN MYTH or WATER MYTH. How did North Americans reach this conclusion?? There’s many articles: Check this onefrom Geisel School of Medicine: https://geiselmed.dartmouth.edu/news/2002_h2/08aug2002_water.shtml/ Please print the studies proving benefits, and the years the studies were done.
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I absolutely agree, Skippyrosa. As I noted in the article, it’s basically an “old saying” and there are other recommendations out there. Eight glasses a day is a good place to start, but the most important thing is to listen to your body, like Raymonde did. Do you feel better when you drink 8 glasses a day? How do you feel when you drink more or less? What’s the weather like, and what’s your activity level? If you listen to your own body, you can learn the optimal water intake for you. 🙂
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I have a countertop water steam distiller and I love it! Since I started drinking only distilled water and using it in my coffee and cooking, I’ve felt a tremendous decrease in joint pain and inflammation, more ease of movement all around and I just Feel Better!
I have known about the benefits of distilled water for a long time, but when I moved and had to leave my old distiller behind, I had adopted drinking fresh spring water (from a neighbour’s overflow pipe in the country) but had noticed more stiffness and pain in my joints. But your program, Vivian, has brought me back to wanting my distilled water again. I got a new H2OLabs Model #200 from Canada Water Distillers last Christmas and I’ve been enjoying it ever since.
Thank you, once again, Vivian for pointing us all in the right direction where drinking the best water is concerned. I feel so much better for it, and now there is scientific proof that it’s been the right thing to do all along.
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You are wise to listen to your body, Raymonde! That’s the first and most important step in bone health (and overall health). You know your body and its needs better than anyone else!
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Is reverse osmosis water a good substitute for distilled?
Thanks-
Reverse osmosis water is a good second choice, Carla. 🙂
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Drinking distilled water during the day isn’t always practical and bottled spring water is readily available. Is this a good alternative? I also have a good filter system at home that removes all chemicals except flouride which requires a reverse osmosis cylinder that would take up most of the storage space under the sink. Is this water suitable?
I have your Save Your Bones book and am enjoying and absorbing all the info. Thank you-
I have a RO system and have been real pleased with it. For whatever reason my bone density changed a lot in two years drinking this, because I wasn’t always faithful to the SOB plan, and this is the only thing I can attribute it to, losing the fluoride in the drinking water. Even hooked it up to the refrigerator for ice and water. I think RO water tastes better than distilled, personally. Still put the lemon in it.
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Kangen does not filter out Fluoride, unless you purchase an additional specific filter that does.