Save Our Bones Bulletin: Bisphosphonate Use At An All-Time Low, Experimental Osteoporosis Drug Influences Gene Expression, Low Protein Diet Has Startling Health Benefits, And More! - Save Our Bones

By Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

Save Our Bones Bulletin: Bisphosphonate Use At An All-Time Low, Experimental Osteoporosis Drug Influences Gene Expression, Low Protein Diet Has Startling Health Benefits, And More!

This month’s Bulletin is full of eye-opening information that I am really excited to share with you.

The use of bisphosphonates is decreasing at a fast rate, as awareness of their dangers becomes widespread.

But the drive to treat osteoporosis with drugs is still alive and well – in fact, a new drug is already in the latter stages of development, and its mechanism of action is truly frightening.

And once again, Savers are ahead of the game in whole-body health – new research shows that a short-term dietary tweak boosts the health and function of many important body systems.

Let’s begin with…

1. Bisphosphonate Use At An All-Time Low

The word is getting out: bisphosphonates are harmful and dangerous, and useless against osteoporosis. Bisphosphonate use has decreased by over 50% in the United States over the last few years.

Relevant Excerpt:

“Following a decade of steady growth, use of bisphosphonates—medications that are effective for treating osteoporosis—declined in the United States by more than 50% from 2008 to 2012.

The sudden drop seemed to occur after media reports highlighted safety concerns, such as the development of certain fractures that occurred rarely in long-term users, despite the fact that the US Food and Drug Administration and the American Society of Bone and Mineral Research did not recommend any specific safety restrictions on bisphosphonates.”1

The lack of “specific safety restrictions” doesn’t mean the drugs are safe, as the experience of all too many proves. These drugs have been on the market for many years, and they have not suddenly become unsafe; they were always harmful at worst, useless at best. But the sudden drop in their use is largely due to increased awareness of the risks.

Once again, knowledge is empowering – it can even affect the sale and distribution of an entire class of drugs and help many osteoporosis patients avoid their awful side effects.

But of course, drug manufacturers are moving forward in their quest for the perfect osteoporosis drug. Their latest attempt is disturbing…

2. New Compound Alters Genetic Expression Of Stem Cells

In treating insulin resistance in Type 2 diabetics with drugs called thiazolidinediones, scientists began to notice a peculiar side effect: a reduction in the number of bone-producing cells. Thiazolidinediones work by stimulating a protein called Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma, or PPARy.

So researchers set out to develop a drug that suppresses PPARy with the intent of having the opposite effect: increasing bone-forming cells.

Relevant Excerpt:

“Peroxisome proliferator-activated receptor gamma (PPARγ) is a receptor present on stem cells, the immature cells from bone marrow that can become different types of cells.

Receptors are protein molecules that react to specific chemical signals, much in the way a lock can be opened by a key.
Stimulation of PPARγ causes the stem cells to turn into adipocytes (fat cells) rather than osteoblasts (the cells involved in bone formation).

A class of drugs called thiazolidinediones, or glitazones, target PPARγ to improve insulin sensitivity for people with type 2 diabetes. A side effect of this drug is that fewer osteoblasts are formed.

A chemical compound called SR1664…partially blocks the receptor, still improving the insulin sensitivity but without reducing the number of stem cells that turn into osteoblasts.

From this, the researchers have developed another chemical compound called SR2595, which stimulates the PPARγ receptor to have the opposite effect, causing the stem cells to turn into osteoblasts.”2

What SR2595 actually does is suppress PPARy’s activity in the body. This is a big red flag.

When you suppress a biologically active compound, you’re in dangerous territory. PPARy has various important roles in the body, regulating the genetic expression of nearly all body tissues, including the heart, colon, kidneys, muscles, pancreas, and spleen. If SR2595 is suppressed, then it stands to reason that these tissues and their attenuating biological processes will be affected.

Gene expression is naturally regulated by the body, and can be influenced by lifestyle choices such as exercise. But introducing a compound that will artificially alter gene expression is a frightening prospect. What other genetic expressions will be altered and skewed in the presence of SR2595?

3. 5-Day Low Calorie/Low Protein Diet Promotes Longevity

Periodic fasting has been shown to have various health benefits, but strict fasting can be challenging and even dangerous.

Professor Valter Longo of the University of Southern California Davis School of Gerontology and director of the USC Longevity Institute, along with his colleagues, did a 3-tiered study on the health effects of periodic fasting. Based on that research, they developed a diet that mimics fasting.

Called the FMD, this new approach has shown startling health benefits, including reduced bone mineral loss.

Relevant Excerpt:

“In a new study, Longo and his colleagues show that cycles of a four-day low-calorie diet that mimics fasting (FMD) cut visceral belly fat and elevated the number of progenitor and stem cells in several organs of old mice—including the brain, where it boosted neural regeneration and improved learning and memory.

The mouse tests were part of a three-tiered study on periodic fasting's effects—testing yeast, mice and humans—set to be published by Cell Metabolism on June 18. …

Bimonthly cycles that lasted four days of an FMD which started at middle age extended life span, reduced the incidence of cancer, boosted the immune system, reduced inflammatory diseases, slowed bone mineral density loss and improved the cognitive abilities of older mice tracked in the study. The total monthly calorie intake was the same for the FMD and control diet groups, indicating that the effects were not the result of an overall dietary restriction.

In a pilot human trial, three cycles of a similar diet given to 19 subjects once a month for five days decreased risk factors and biomarkers for aging, diabetes, cardiovascular disease and cancer with no major adverse side effects, according to Longo.”3 (emphasis added)

The FMD is composed primarily of vegetable soups and chamomile tea; participants follow this diet for 5 days a month, and eat normally the rest of the time. On the first day, dieters eat 1,090 calories composed of 10% protein, 56% fat, and 34% carbs. Days 2 through 5 involve just 725 calories and 9% protein, 44 % fat, and 47% carbs.

This Should Sound Very Familiar To Savers

If you have followed the Osteoporosis Fresh Start Cleanse: the 7-Day Bone Building Accelerator, the FMD will sound familiar. While complete fasting is not a part of the Osteoporosis Reversal Program or of the Osteoporosis Fresh Start Cleanse, the pH-balanced nutritional plan described in the Program emphasizes fruits and vegetables and is low in animal protein, and the Osteoporosis Fresh Start Cleanse diet is very similar to the FMD.

Accelerated Bone Remodeling In Just 7 Days!

Discover how the Osteoporosis Fresh Start Cleanse can flush osteoporosis drugs and other bone-damaging toxins from your system – in just seven days.

Learn More Now →

The research is promising – with the Osteoporosis Fresh Start Cleanse, you can rejuvenate your bones and enjoy all the incredible health benefits of fasting described above. It’s no wonder that after completing the 7-day Osteoporosis Fresh Start Cleanse, you feel more energetic and focused. Your whole body reaps the benefits!

Please share your thoughts about today’s topics with the community by leaving a comment below.

Till next time,

References:

1 “Following Media Reports of Safety Concerns, Use of Osteoporosis Drugs Down.” Science Codex. June 17, 2015. Web. https://www.sciencecodex.com/following_media_reports_of_safety_concerns_use_of_osteoporosis_drugs_down-159496

2 “Potential breakthrough for osteoporosis announced.” Nursing Times. June 17, 2015. Web. https://www.nursingtimes.net/home/behind-the-headlines/-potential-breakthrough-for-osteoporosis-announced/5086940.article

3 “Diet that mimics fasting appears to slow aging.” Medical Xpress. June 18, 2015. Web. https://medicalxpress.com/news/2015-06-diet-mimics-fasting-aging.html

You May Also Like These Related Articles:

The Top 14 Things You’re Doing That Are Damaging Your Bones... And More!

  • Stop The Bone Thieves! report
  • Email course on how to prevent and reverse bone loss
  • Free vital osteoporosis news and updates.
Get It Free Now

Comments on this article are closed.

  1. Chitreakha

    Dear Vivian- I read saveourbones Program and it enlightened me so much. I have been on osteoporosis drugs for 18 years now and I am on med. for acid reflux – blocking my calcium absorption. I am due for my next aclasta infusion in August and I
    will not be taking. I will try to follow your program to the best of my ability. I have been
    practicing yoga for 40 years now followed by walking and light weights because they
    said I have severe osteoporosis 18 years now and all my discs beginning of advance deterioration . I am very happy making the decision to discontinue taking aclasta
    infusion and follow your program. Thank you so much.

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Dear Chitreakha,

      Thank you for sharing your decision to go drug-free in managing your osteoporosis. You’ll find so much support here in the Saver community, and you can have peace of mind knowing you are capable of taking your health into your own hands. Best of luck on your bone-health journey!

  2. Jan Toohey

    Vivian, I have been commited to the “Save Our Bones” since May of 2012. I love reading your emails & comments because I am still learning so many new things from you about our bones. I don’t mean to boast, but I feel like the queen of your program. After I got off Boniva, Reclast, & Fosamax after 14 years I was depressed & frightened, but I have done everything in your program & this is what has transpired. I swim 5 days a week with the Mission Viejo Nadadores Master’s team.(I couldn’t do 5 laps in the beginning.) I ride hunter/jumpers every afternoon except Sundays I Nordic cross country freestyle all winter & have done 2 master’s world cups. I am 71. Keep moving & live the alkaline/acid diet. Don’t worry too much & be happy. Thank you for all you have done for so many thousands of women. I’m going to order the cleanse now. The knowledge you deliver to us is incredible. I am still dating that spinal orthopedic surgeon & he doesn’t prescribe bisphosphates anymore. You are the greatest gift to all of us. Jan

  3. Susan F

    I have read studies that show older folks do better with more protein to support muscle mass. Whey was supposed to be good as I recall.

  4. Jan

    Dear Vivian- I have been following your PH balanced nutritional plan for about 6 months. I also test my urine each day just to make sure I’m keeping the 20% protein (acid part) in line-versus the 80% fruit & veggies( alkaline part). When testing with the strips although I got to wondering just how much alkaline daily is safe to use- for the long term. Generally Im at the highest point on the test strip scale which is good for my bones-but to much alkaline I heard was not good either. I would like your thoughts please. Thank you, Sincerely Jan

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Hi Jan,
      I don’t recommend checking your pH regularly because it fluctuates greatly depending on the time of the day and other factors such as stress, level of physical activity, even sweating. However, should you wish to check it every once in a while, a pH of around 6.2 to 6.4 measured first thing in the morning from saliva and/or urine is considered a good level. 🙂

  5. Nicole

    The FMD formula includes chamomile tea. I am under the impression chamomile is a blood thinner. Shouldn’t it be avoided or at least used in moderation? What do you think?

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      I believe all foods and beverages should be consumed in moderation! 🙂 And the FMD diet is not a part of the Save Our Bones nutritional plan per se.

  6. Leonore Alaniz

    Vivian, please introduce the topic of WILD GREENS here. They are pranan-packed. Eating them in lieu, or in addition with other foods, acts like a “fast”. Best: Their nutrition can be stored for the leaner seasons. Eat their tips, young leaves, before they go into seed. Eating wild greens, from uncontaminated aeras, such as young Lambsquarters, steamed or sauteed, then scrambled with eggs or added to other main dishes, or salalds does wonders. Include a few Dandelion leaves raw, Nettle leaves (steep in boiled water), Wheat grass too is power food, goes into blood stream, is the closets green to human hemoglobin. Chew or juice it, while rediucing carbs and animal protein. These Greens raise the pH within hours. Test it with paper strips, you’ll be amazed! Eating wild , potent greens, acts like a fast, and is effective because it is cumulative, into the cold months. Reg. MILK: It is the processed milk, that is dangerous. pleae Vivian, it is not true that raw milk damages, unless one has a genetic marker that does not accept milk. My Bavarian relatives live(d) into ripe old age, (incl my own mother and my God mother, who raised cows all her life and drank daily from their raw milk. They live into their 90s, with strong bones). Thanks for you work, Vivian. The wild edible movement groes in leaps and bounds. Pl consider including it in your research. Leonore, W Mass.

    • Elle

      Lenore, I love your comments about raw milk. I was driving last summer to the country to buy raw milk but wasn’t sure it was good for my bones . It’s so excellent in summer smoothies! Thank You for your feedback

  7. Rita Clemans

    Yes me too, is it possible to get hard copy instead of Digital.

  8. Donna

    I am so grateful to have your ongoing emails that inform & encourage us, and ultimately save us from putting harmful things into our bodies.

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      You’re very welcome, Donna!

  9. Roxane Price

    The bisphosphonate drugs are very dangerous! I’m glad to hear that the use of them is down. What concerns me is the damage that is already done by the time you realize there is a problem. I took “Boniva” for 26 months stopping after a tooth fell out! My dentist knew what the problem was immediately! I lost a total of 6 teeth and then had to have the rest pulled. It was very traumatic for me. They couldn’t get me fitted right in dentures because of the shape my mouth/jaw are in. I had implants put in 2 months ago, they are doing great. I can eat gain! Those drugs are terrible and should all be pulled. There should be help for those of us who have been affected by these poisonous drugs! They can do a lot of damage to a lot of body parts.

  10. Callie

    ditto about the hard copy

  11. Caroline

    Were they specific about the protein that they reduced in participants’ diets? Was it mostly from animal products, or a mix of animal and vegetable proteins? Many studies suggest that animal products (and the associated antibiotics, growth hormones, etc.) are largely responsible for the increasing rates of diabetes, cancer, and heart disease we’ve seen over the last twenty-plus years. If so, then it makes sense that a reduction in animal protein would be associated with improvements in health.

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Great question, Caroline! Quoting from the study, the diet was comprised of “proprietary vegetable-based soups, energy bars, energy drinks, chip snacks, chamomile flower tea, and a vegetable supplement formula tablet.”

      • Caroline

        Thank you for this information, Vivian. Some of these items sound like processed foods! Imagine if they had fed people fresh fruits and vegetables, nuts and seeds!

      • Leonore Alaniz

        Friends, wild plants i listed in my post above, are loaded with protein. These must not be eliinated, they complenent the minerals and vitamins that are also present in plants. Green smoothies (Book: “Green for Life”), are a surefire way to consume such greens with JOY and definite results. The unfamiliar green taste can be masked with banana or other pulpy fruit, and honey or stevia. Yoghurt gives fermented milk protein and the fat content necessary to absorb the minerals and vitamins of the plants. For example, carotene, (Vit A) can only be absorbed when taken with fat/oil. (fish oil, cocnut butter, ghee). Avocado is perfect for green smoothies, because they have healthy fats and are a complete food that compliments the “wild ones”. Since Jan 2015, my now tiny 92 yr old mothers drinks one smoothie every day, with one raw fresh egg in it (from Farmer’s hens). Her metabolism is accepting this food, after intestinal problems for months. She is becoming stronger, walks even taller! The author / cook Victoria Boutenko would chime in with Vivian’s work, and vica versa. May be affiliation is possible between you? To the power of many: Leonore.

  12. Connie Smith

    Vivian, I want very much to order this cleanse, but I have very difficult time keeping on weight. I can’t afford to lose a single pound. I try to follow the Saver program, but I must include spelt bread and lots of little red potatoes and avocados to keep the weight on. Do you think it would be OK for me to follow the cleansing program for a week?

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Hi Connie,
      If your is not to a point where you feel comfortable doing OsteoCleanse, then you might want to wait until your body weight is more stabilized. If you have any doubts, it’s a good idea to check with your doctor who is familiar with your health history and can advise you about the cleanse.

  13. Celeste

    Forgot to mention in my comment that The only medication I am on is thyroid.
    Celeste

  14. Celeste

    Thank you, thank you Vivian for all that you do to keep us informed!!
    I have learned to be in control of any medications I put into my body ,I stretch & exercise and work at eating sensibly. So far it seems to be working well for me. I will be 83yrs old this year and am very active.
    Vivian, thank you again .
    Celeste

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Wonderful, Celeste! Thank you for sharing that with the community to encourage others.

  15. Rosemary

    it’s our ongoing mentality that a pill can fix everything. The doctors are the worst for believing everything they’re prescribing will do what the brochure says.

    Every time we go to a Doctor for my husbands Parkinson’s disease, they up his meds. He became useless. I took it upon myself to lower his drugs and he can walk and talk now.

    It really is up to us to do our own thinking. Not every prescription needs to be filled. Especially the bone meds.

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Very well said, Rosemary. And that is fantastic news about your husband!

    • Christie

      You’re really thinking and observing and acting on it, and now you’re husband is walking and shows improvement because of you!
      Good job!

      • EsterH

        Rosemary, congrats for taking a bold step in your husband’s health!! We should never have to be forced to medicate ourselves with pharmaceuticals to the point where we become helpless. We have information available and knowledgeable people like Vivian who are willing to share to help us, we just need to keep searching for what will work for us.

  16. Pamela Thompson

    An excellent idea and on the same lines as I’m beginning to realise.
    I’m slim built so everyone thinks I’m thin but it couldn’t be further from the truth as I have a swollen stomach and have had 2 hip replacements due to AVN and I know I need to reduce the fat around my stomach to help me.

  17. Jean

    Is it possible to get the hard copy of Osteo-Cleanse instead of the digital one.

Get Started With Your FREE
Natural Bone Building Kit.

Get a free copy of our ‘Stop The Bone Thieves’ eBook, exclusive content that you can’t find anywhere else, plus vital osteoporosis news and updates.

Get It Free

Get Your Free Bone-Building Kit

FREE

‘Stop The Bone Thieves’ guide, exclusive info, plus vital osteoporosis news and updates.