I've answered several questions about strontium as part of my Vivian Answers Day series. But I've noticed that more strontium related questions keep coming, so I've decided to compile all the information about strontium in one place to serve as a handy reference for you.
An Introduction to Strontium
Strontium is an element abundantly found in mineral compounds which has many uses in the metal industry. It is also utilized in medical imaging equipment, pyrotechnics, optics, and pottery glazes. One of the most notorious strontium isotopes is strontium-90, a highly radioactive component of nuclear fallout. Discovered in 1808 in the Scottish town Strontian – hence its name – it is only recently that strontium has come into the limelight as a bone health supplement and drug.
Because strontium is a highly reactive element, it is never found in a pure form in nature. Likewise, the most common over-the-counter supplements are chemically bound to different molecules, such as citrate, lactate, carbonate, and gluconate. Strontium ranelate is a prescription drug where the ranelate molecule is a patentable synthetic chemical. More on this later.
First, I'd like to address the concerns of those of you who are aware that I don't recommend strontium supplementation and wonder about the strontium that's included in some of the organic calcium formulas that I do like.
A Little Bit is Okay!
Here's why a little bit of strontium is harmless. Most of the algae-based calcium supplements do contain a small amount of naturally-occurring strontium (3-5 mg), but that's okay. We have a small amount of strontium circulating in our blood (around 350 mg). From a biological standpoint, the amounts in most algae-based calcium formulas are insignificant.
But Not More…
What I don’t recommend is a separate, additional strontium supplement. For example, some organic calcium formulas contain 5 mg of strontium. But there are also strontium supplements on the market that contain over 600 mg. That’s what you should stay away from.
So What's Wrong with Strontium?
In Vivian Answers Day #6, Maurice asked about this directly:
“You seem to be strongly against strontium supplementation. As many other alternative health advisors are in favor of strontium, can you give a detailed explanation why you do not agree?”
And my response to him was:
This is a rich and controversial topic, as you correctly mention in your question. For that reason, in the Osteoporosis Reversal Program I devote several pages to discuss the drug Protelos TM (strontium ranelate).
Here are the main reasons why strontium ranelate (and by extension, any form of strontium, such as strontium citrate, carbonate, or lactate) is not a good choice:
- Strontium has a long list of undesirable side-effects, commonly ranging from nausea to skin irritation, and less often (fortunately), blood clots and fainting.
- Since strontium is denser than calcium, it is difficult to assess actual bone improvement in a DXA scan.
- Several studies conclude that strontium causes the outer cortical bone to become thicker, actually reducing tensile strength. This increases the risk of fractures.
- Strontium competes with calcium absorption.
Strontium is a trace element very similar to calcium. In fact, it is so similar that it competes with the calcium protein carrier in the blood. The human skeleton is mostly made of calcium, which constitutes 1.5 to 2 percent of the body weight of an adult. On the other hand, our bodies only contain 320 to 400 mg of strontium.
Strontium acts as a bone thickener. In the Osteoporosis Reversal Program I mention a study suggesting that it does not affect the quality of the bone mineral, but rather the quantity. In other words, the outer cortical bone becomes thicker.
But If Strontium Thickens Bones, Isn't That Good?
Remember, there is a big difference between thick bones and strong bones. Just like dried-up thick tree branches, thick bones are more prone to fracture than healthy and renewed bones that have good levels of tensile strength. What is tensile strength? It's the bones' ability to resist stretching or pulling. Quoting from the Osteoporosis Reversal Program:
“Tensile strength is the ability of a material or member to resist stretching and pulling, and is different from compressive strength. The latter means that a material or member has the ability to resist compression or crushing. Bone compressive strength is always much greater than tensile strength; tensile strength must therefore be of primary concern.”
Strontium does increase density and both trabecular and cortical strength, therefore making bones denser and thicker. However, thicker and more densely packed bones lack ductility and tensile strength.
Fractures involve tensile strength and compressive strength as well. So while strontium hardens bones it also alters their tensile strength actually making them more prone to fracture. Also, as studies reveal, strontium mainly thickens the outer cortical bone and bones with a thicker (less tensile strength) outer cortex are more prone to breakage or fracture 1.
And as mentioned previously, strontium is denser than calcium and gives false bone density test results. Some even recommend reducing T-score numbers by 20% when taking strontium because of that.
In the Osteoporosis Reversal Program I reveal the best ways to boost your bones tensile strength so that they become more resistant fracture.
What about Strontium Ranelate?
In the USA, strontium is not an approved drug, but in Europe, Protelos (strontium ranelate) is on the market.
Protelos is one of the brand names for strontium ranelate, which differs from some of the other osteoporosis drugs 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
- Blood clots
And, as with naturally occurring strontium supplements, studies have shown that strontium ranelate mainly thickens the outer cortical portion of bones 2.
The Final Word on Strontium
You may continue to hear strontium touted as a “miracle” drug or supplement. And as we just examined, it's because of strontium's unnatural “hardening” effect.
The bad news is that there is no such thing as a “miracle pill” for osteoporosis. The good news is that you can naturally rebuild your bones with the Osteoporosis Reversal Program.
References
1 Boivin, Deloffre, Perrat, et al.. Strontium distribution and interactions with bone mineral in monkey iliac bone after strontium salt administration” Journal of Bone and Mineral Research. 11:1302-1311. 1996.
2 Jiang, Arlot, Genant, et al.. “Histomorphometric and μCT analysis of bone biopsies from postmenopausal osteoporotic women treated with strontium ranelate.” Journal of Bone and Mineral Research.Feb; 23 (2): 215-22. 2008
I recently purchased AlgaCal and strontium taken together. After reading the articles I am reluctant to take the strontium. It was costly as well. I am confused. I was just trying to do the best thing for myself. Please help!!
Exercise. Attitude. Diet. Muscle testing eg energy response testing as my way of customizing for me. Lots of research.
Good article about Sr. I have her book, and she does give a lot of very useful information. I can’t find my copy on the very gentle exercises. And I cannot follow cookbooks. No bitter melon, liver pudding, pickle herring, cactus, dragonfruit etc. She is offering free the Bone Thieves. A great read.
As for offering a product for sale, so do MDs, NDs, every entrepreneur and professional. These comments are great too.
As for SrCit, I spent days reading blogs, studies and Amazon comments, also ton of info on Amazon. I purchased SrCitrate in 340 mg, size (227 mg as Sr). (other forms- citrate, lactate, carbonate, gluconate). Muscle testing results: My bones want 680 mg. False. My body is comfy with 340. True. Once a day. False. 2x a day. T. In 2 doses… T. slpit the capsuleWith calcium, magnesium, zinc, etc, yogurt, KEFIR etc. False.
Several studies conclude that strontium causes the outer cortical bone to become thicker, actually reducing tensile strength. This increases the risk of fractures.
while on the other side am reading just opposite studies or so ?
can one sort these out ?
Don
July 29, 2013, 7:37 pm
I am proof positive that bio-available calcium in combination with vitamins D and K along with strontium regenerates osteoporotic bone
My surgeon who inserted rods to set the fracture commented that the quality of my bones is excellent as he can accurately assess their condition when he drills through them to insert rods.
Carol
June 30, 2013, 4:52 pm
strontium safely strengthens bones, decreases fracture rates,
Anne
September 7, 2012, 12:14 am
I cannot praise the beneficial effects of strontium citrate enough! Six weeks ago I recommended strontium to a relative of mine who has severe osteoporosis. She is in her 70s and experienced unrelenting back pain from vertebral fractures. The old fractures were not healing and new fractures continued to occur. She was taking calcium, magnesium, etc, but nothing helped. Because I also have osteoporosis, and had researched the effects of strontium citrate, I suggested that she start taking strontium. Three weeks later, she was pain-free! Six weeks later she is still pain-free and is now able to clean house again, whereas formerly she was unable to use the vacuum cleaner or even dust the furniture without experiencing intensified pain. Needless to say,she is over-joyed and has developed a whole new outlook on life. As for side effects, they can occur from any over-the-counter product if you don’t use wisdom in taking them, including natural supplements, caffeine, sugar, etc. The key to taking strontium is to allow a least 2 hrs between it and your calcium product, so each of them will properly absorb. As a retired nurse, I have closely examined the research on strontium, and feel quite confident in adding it to my present regimen of natural supplements. Anne
and here two more people who find factual relief from their osteoporosis by taking strontium
https://forums.webmd.com/3/osteoporosis-exchange/forum/493/1
and more on positive for strontium
https://www.raysahelian.com/strontium.html
Hi, I just bought” Garden of Life Organic’s” Organic Plant Calcium that has 4mg of Strontium from organic Algae and 15mcg of Vanadium from organic Algae is this ok? I do not want to continue putting something in my body that is not good, Even a little bit not good. Thank you for the advice.
Vivian
Having spent 26 years in the USAF medical service specialties that included investigational chemistry, surgical, oncology, ICU, NICU, obstetrics, gynecology, aerospace medicine, space shuttle program, etc., I find that you do not mention that patients who need surgically implanted fusion plates (performed with drilling screws) need to be on a strontium citrate supplementation at least 14 weeks prior to surgery specifically for the reason that strontium boost helps harden/rigid the bones to keep the surgical screws in place. You are doing your readers a disservice therefore misleading them by not including this information.
Very Respectfully
Rod Garrido, MA, MSS, HSA, USAF Retired
I have been taking Strontium Citrate (Strontium Boost) along with other minerals to assist my bones. I would like to know your opionion on the Strontium Citrate which as far as I can ascertain is the best of all the Strontiums available.
In anticipation
Paul Ryan
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hi!
You had me listening to you until you brought something completely unrelated into the conversation?
In regards to Bill Pickersgill response
I actually wanted a reply from Vivian Goldschmidt 😉
Hi Vivian,
I was diagnosed with Myasthenia Gravis, an auto-immune disease, 5 years ago. I’ve been on cortisone (Prednisone), as my body rejected all other treatments for this disease. As a result of the long-term use of cortisone, I was diagnosed with osteopenia 3 years ago. The physician prescribed Protos, which I took for amlost two years, until I came across the Save our Bones program last year. I immediately stopped the Protos, ordered the program, modified my diet and started excercising. Despite the fact that my cortisone dosis was increased last year, the result of the bone densite test in June this year was the same as last year, which proves that your program works!
I am convinced that my osteopenia could have been reversed by following your program, but because of the cortisone there is no improvement, it just doesn’t get worse. What would you advise me to do?
I read through the chapter where you discuss the various medications again, and it seems that Protos is one of the ‘lesser evils’….
I also have been on doses of Prednisone for 30 years when needed for asthma,
I have been diagnosed with osteoporosis and last year with Paget’s disease. My legs and lower back are in pain most of the time, and just found out and purchased AlgaeCal Plus and Strontium. I have been very active my whole life (84) and now either in pain or taking pain over the counter meds. Just got my supply of the above and now not sure of the Strontium, I also get an intravenous once a year from my orthopedic MD.
Vivian,
I diagnose osteoprosis on my hips and spine ,I took Algeacal plus for a month ,but I found out that I got headache becuase of k2 ,so I stop taking them.then for one month I took strontium 680mg every night .right now I am dealing with so much pain on my shoulders ,spine ,my neck .i also stop tacking them also.i have super sensitive body ,I don’t know what supplement to take for my bones .????please help me ,,is my pain goes away becuse of side effect of strounium …???
Thanks
You need to take more calcium than strontium, so if you are taking 680 mg of strontium, I would take 1000 mg of calcium citrate or malate. Take your strontium separate from your calcium; at least 4 hours apart. Ideally, your supplement should also contain vitamin D3, vitamin K2 as menaquinone, magnesium glycinate or citrate, zinc, copper, boron, selenium, manganese, molybdenum, and silicon.
Another very effective way to battle osteoporosis is to supplement with BIOIDENTICAL (not horse urine derived) estrogen and progesterone.
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This article is pretty poorly argued. There are some potential side effects with strontium if you’ve got heart disease or kidney disease, but the same is true of calcium! After doing a bunch of research I think I’m going to do 340 mg of strontium daily. The science I’m reading is pretty clear that fracture risk is seriously reduced using this supplement, it’s cheap, the side effects are mostly theoretical and not at all well documented. So, in combination with other approaches I think it’s totally reasonable to include this until I see some persuasive evidence to the contrary. It has to make you wonder whether the big pharma might not be at least partly behind some of this attempt to dissuade people from taking this incredibly cheap and by most accounts effective supplement. If this site weren’t selling its own “solution” it might raise less concerns about a conflict of interest publishing what seems like a pretty weak argument against this supplement.
Thanks for an intelligent comment. I was coming to a similar conclusion and appreciate your succinct distillation.
I agree with you Steve. I am also going to try Strontium Citrate. I find it confusing that they constantly mix SR with SC. I want a clear review of SC.
I just don’t know what to believe anymore , should I take strontium citrate for my bones ? I will not take prolia like my dr wants me too no way . I have Virtigo it’s hard to walk lots and exercise but my bones are getting worse .just what do I do , sick and tired of everyone wanting money money and no help . I try to stay alkaline the best I can , I reckon what will be will be . Just tired .
It’s a” big lie” that whole dairy is bad , why do you think everyone is low in Vit D /. No one’s drinking” whole” milk but 2% , 1 % , and skim, which are useless , because you need the saturated fat to absorb fat soluble vitamins . How could something” whole” be bad for you ?, are not whole grains good then why wouldn’t whole dairy be good . Do you not see the correlation ?.
Go back 100 yrs ago or even 50 there was no disk and skeletal degeneration or osteoporosis , because everyone consumed whole dairy products regularly their whole lives and they were way healthier than we are now .
Think about it, since everyone quit consuming whole milk skeletal problems have skyrocketed . And if 2 %, 1 % , and skim are acceptable replacements for whole dairy from a goat or cow why the continuing skeletal problems ?. And if soy and almond and flax etc are acceptable replacements then why is everyone still low in Vit D ?.
And you” cannot” take Vit D supps it’s a fat soluble Vit which means it’s not excreted daily like Vit B, AND C . This means you can build up a toxcicity in the liver or arterial calcification which your seeing more and more .
You want to drink whole milk it’s one of the healthiest foods you can put into your body , Isa 55 : 1 , Ex 3 : 8 , Ex 3 : 17 Ex 33 : 3[ Niv] bible . don’t listen to the lies there is no truth out there today as was predicted by a great prophet of God . Isa 59 : 15 [Niv] bible .
You’re using bible quotes to settle diet questions? What century is this?
…the Bible is timeless. We would do well to heed the truths God has contained in His Word to us. We are indeed a sick people in so many ways.
I get terrible sinus problems when using dairy products. So I am taking some Calcium with VitD3 and VitK. Not all of us can handle dairy.
I’ve been struggling with weakness into the muscles for the past years, I’m am 49 yrs old. I need your help please tell me what to do.I’ve been to my family doctor and he recommend therapy. But he did not like give me anything to take nd I did the therapy for awhile and stop cause they just don’t know what to do at the hospital. So I’m very much in need of your help please and thank you. I’m living in Jamaica.
I am sorry you’re having trouble finding the appropriate treatment for your health issues, Cavell. Is there a more holistic physician, chiropractor, or nutritionist in your area who might be more in tune with the approach you’re looking for?
Im grateful for the forum topic.Really thank you! Awesome.
Hello everyone! I read through all the comments here and noticed that no one has mentioned Caffiene intake or Smoking as being a cause of Osteoporosis. I take my Mom to an MD, ND, and a Chiropractor. It was the Chiropractor and the ND who recommended to eliminate Caffiene, and Smoking. Caffiene depletes the body of Magnesium also Smoking depletes the body of all Minerals and Vitamins. Caffiene is in Coffee, Chocolate, some Teas, and Soda. I’ve replaced her Coffee and Chocolate habit with Malt, Carob, and Coffee Substitutes made with Chicory usually found in the Coffee isle of stores, or the Tea section. Zinc also is commonly deficient in many people, since Zinc competes with Phylates found in Grains, and also Copper. A Zinc Supplement taken a few hours away from Grains and Supplements that may have Copper is important. I also added a Silica Supplement (from red algae). Vitamin B Complex and Boron is also good for the health of bones. Recent research has shown that Vitamin K-2 causes the Calcium to go straight to the bones and not to the arteries the ND prescribed her Vitamin K-2, along with Fish Oil gel caps, 3 Tablespoons of Coconut Oil and Chia Seeds day, and Ubiquinol (QH absorb). The Coconut Oil and Chia Seeds keep her cholesterol low, but may also be of interest here for those who are concerned about Calcium going to the Arteries, and Ubiquinol and Fish Oil. Besides these she takes Strontium Citrate, Calcium, Magnesium 1,000 mgs, an Osteo Supplement called Osteo Prime Forte, Bioplasma (a combination of 12 mineral cell salts vital to cellular health and function), a Whole Food Supplement, Vitamin C 4,000 mgs daily, and Vitamin D3. The amount of Vitamin C needed and / or tolerated varys from person to person. She quit smoking it’s been about 7 months that she started on most of the supplements but Strontium, Silica, and Boron, and Zinc were just added a couple months ago. Someone mentioned Biotin in the comments and I will be looking into adding that. I believe a lack of minerals causes Osteoporosis. It’s interesting someone commented here about the stomach not being Alkaline could cause Osteoporosis….the ND prescribed my Mom 1/2 a Teaspoon of Baking Soda and 1/2 Teaspoon of Salt in 40 ounces of Water a day, (along with 80 ounces of plain regular water) but this is to keep from dehydrating since the elderly dehydrate easily. The Baking Soda keeps the body Alkaline which also has shown a Non-Alkaline Body is a cause of cancer, but if you eat enough greens without lots of sugar daily then your body should be Alkaline. I wonder if Gelatin or Pectin may also help in the formation of bones and bone growth since it strenghthens and thickens nails? Thank you everyone for all your input! Take Care!
I am taking Garden of Life Vitamin Code Grow Bone system and on the box it reads 680mg Elemental Stronium. The amount per serving is 3.8. Is that okay then or should I go with another supplement? Thanks.
Hi Jen,
Most of the algae-based calcium supplements do contain a small amount of strontium that is actually part of the algae, but that’s ok. We have a small amount of strontium circulating in our blood (around 350 mg), and the amounts in most algae-based calcium formulas won’t make a difference. What I do not recommend is a separate, additional strontium supplement. The New Chapter product has 5 mg of strontium. As a comparison, AlgaeCal’s Strontium Boost contains a little more than 600 mg, which is too much.
I take True Osteo Calcium Tablets as directed. I also take Vitamin D 2000 IU. My question is what other supplements should I take? can you please advise.
Would like to get the free booklet offered in prior section. My name would not print in space provided. I am taking strontium and now I am worried that I am doing myself harm.
I am sorry you had trouble! Check your inbox – you should have a copy of the free ebook, Stop the Bone Thieves, waiting in your inbox ready to download. 🙂
There seems to be a lot of unanswered questions and lack of replies on these comments on the article about Strontium. However, when someone can’t access the free book, the customer service department is all over it. Why are most questions not being answered on this site?
Vivian,
After reading your wonderful article about strontium,I was wondering;to what extent can strontium thicken our bones?Are we talking about milimeters,a small difference which can be observed only through X-rays,or centimeters or even inches of thickness,which can be observed with the bare eye?For how long and in what doses should strontium be taken to observe a change in thickness?And last but not least,any kind of strontium will do the trick?
Hi Amira,
The actual amount of thickening would vary from individual to individual. The point is that thickening bone by adding quantity alone is not healthy, whereas increasing bone quality is. Strontium increases thickness (quantity) but not tensile strength (quality), and it’s the latter that is the key to preventing fractures.
Hi Vivian and the team
Does OSTPO fall into the same group as Strontium?
I have been following the ‘Save Our Bones’ programme now for over a year, and although my bone density hasn’t improved (aged 59 years with borderline Osteoporosis in spine and wrists, Osteopenia in hips), neither has it gotten much worse (a good thing I guess…)
It was suggested that I try this supplement (which I have been told is plant based)
Your input would be appreciated..
Thanks again for all your support, I’ve enjoyed your reports and encouragement….
Warm regards
Zara
I have been looking for something for almost an hour now, for a school project, and I have to say. I am very thankful I found my answer on this website. Thank you, so, very much!
While all of this is great idea for most likely the majority of people, my own research shows me that there are those whose osteoporosis is the result of the bones leaching the nutrients required to keep them strong, rather than lack of those nutrients in the first place. I was diagnosed at 37 and, like Vivienne, refused the fosomax, more out of instinct than anything else. I have embarked upon every natural solution ever publicized, form homeopathy to other remedies and all of the things outlined in this treatment. Today at 54 I sit with a still deteriorating bone density – each year I have a scan with hope that there has been a change and each year I am devastated at the results. It is crucial to point out that regimes such as this one are not necessarily the answer for everyone.
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What is the real cause of low bone density on adolescents.
Vivian
I have been reading about strontium citrate and today discovered information about your research. What seems puzzling to me is that I have not been able to find any details regarding what your recommendations are for good bone health.
All I see is a commercial to buy your book…..is this a scam…..if it is not, why not freely share the information.
Sincerely…..Dave
I Am very concerned and confuse about the all thing, I have osteoporosis but no fractures yet !!– I am scare to death about those injection the Dr, suggested like
Prolia !!— I am tired of every one trying to sell vitamin or other stuff I just want to safe
my bone, I don’t know who I can believe to many do this do that— what is the right and safe way to go and the right amount of vitamin and the right exercise I don’t want a fracture I want to feel better and live without fear !!!— Please help me, tell me what to do !!!
Thank you
I’m with you. Just trying to find an answer from someone not trying to sell me something. I tried Prolia twice, bones ached. Just tried Fosomax once, in terrible pain. I’m active, no broken bones, except for one auto accident. I’m active, horses, etc.
If you find a common sense way to help, please let me know.
I understand that strontium (any form) should be taken at least a few hours away from taking calcium supplements. However, I have a wonderful calcium supplement (plant-based) that has both magnesium, K2, and a small amount of strontium in it. Is this a problem? I hate to try to find a new calcium supplement because this is one I can actually swallow, and it doesn’t give me any problems like heartburn or stomach upset. Also, I’ve been reading that more magnesium should be taken with calcium so that less calcium is needed. What should I do?
I read the same advice. I have just ordered Strontium Citrate. I will take my Calcium with Vitd3 and Vitk a few hours away from taking the Strontium. And yes, I take Magnesium as well when I take my Calcium.
I understand that strontium (any form) should be taken at least a few hours away from taking calcium supplements. However, I have a wonderful calcium supplement (plant-based) that has both magnesium, K2, and a small amount of strontium in it. Is this a problem? I hate to try to find a new calcium supplement because this is one I can actually swallow, and it doesn’t give me any problems like heartburn or stomach upset. Also, I’ve been reading that more magnesium should be taken with calcium so that less calcium is needed. What do I do?
The doses of strontium ranelate is much higher in strontium than most strontium citrate plus their additives may cause side effects separate from the strontium itself.
I did notice that strontium citrate manufacturers do NOT say how much actual strontium is in each 340 mg tablet. Maybe there is one that does specify. I haven’t look extensively.
Your question is a couple of years old now, but still thought a reply here could help someone. From what I had read, when it comes to strontium citrate a bit over a 1/3 by weight is strontium. So 340mg should yield approx 120-140mg of Sr. This is just an approximate answer, a bit of research will give you an exact %.
I am proof positive that bio-available calcium in combination with vitamins D and K along with strontium regenerates osteoporotic bone. Four years ago I was diagnosed as having severe osteoporosis in the lumbar spine and femoral neck. I have been on a regimen of the supplements named above for four years. I recently experienced a serious mountain bike accident in which I fell, with all of the impact concentrated on my left hip causing it to fracture. My surgeon who inserted rods to set the fracture commented that the quality of my bones is excellent as he can accurately assess their condition when he drills through them to insert rods. He requested that I provide him with a detailed description of my regimen so he can pass the information along to his other patients. I have experienced no side effects, whatsoever. The strontium regimen has been used for years to treat osteoporosis.
By the way, I am now six weeks post-surgery, and I am able to walk, climb stairs without crutches or a cane. X- rays taken this morning showed excellent healing. I am a believer in my regimen, and no one can convince me otherwise. I am an active 65 year old. .
Hello Don
You wrote in your comment here that “I am proof positive that bio-available calcium in combination with vitamins D and K along with strontium regenerates osteoporotic bone”.
Can you please provide specific information on what you are taking??
1. What kind of calcium, how many mg, how many times per day?
2. I assume you take vitamin D3, again how much, how many IU and how many times per day?
3. Same question regarding the K vitamin and the specific strontium you take, how many capsules and how many mg???
I too am 65 year old female and I am also very active. In a recent bone scan it was found that there was a significant reduction in my lumbar spine as well.
Thank you very much, hope to hear back from you soon.
Batia
Don, I like to know too. I am wondering why people who bought the book on this website have not offer any information on this program.
Any one case is not proof positive. My husband broke his femur in a bike accident five years ago when he was 70 years old. He was already diagnoses with Osteoporosis and had just starting on Forteo. Since he was very active the doctor predicted a full recovery and he did in a short time and now walks as well as ever. With Forteo there was a dramatic increase in his bone density. There still is no panacea, as he gets scans yearly, blood tests, and calcium, D-3 and a yearly infusion of Reclast. He was not able to tolerate Stontium Citrate. His sister is the same. Without Reclast yearly there was loss of bone seen on the scan. We see an International Specialist for Osteoporosis. My husband has always been very active. His daughter, in her 40’s, a weight lifter, is now see low bone density issues and take strontium. My mother had Osteoporosis and never broke any bones until 89 years old and made of full recovery. She became much shorter. I am so far ok. I took all the drugs my doctors recommended and have tried strontium citrate. I am not sure about it.
Don, please share what form of strontium did you take and at what dosage? I will read further down to see if you have said more.
Hello Don,
Yes, would appreciate you sharing with us what you said your doctor requested:
“He requested that I provide him with a detailed description of my regimen so he can pass the information along to his other patients. I have experienced no side effects, whatsoever.”
Thank you!
I would like a detail copy of your regimen
Don
i am very interested in how much you take and what brands of supplements
you are using. I believe in your regimen and want to start immediately.
thank you so much look forward to hearing from you
Karen
Don – would you send me your regimen as well…..I presently take trueosteo and would really appreciate help….I have significant osteoperosis….I just turned 68…thank you
Hi Don
I hope you are still in great health. I have osteoporosis too and have been taking Vit K2, D3 and magnesium for about 4 yrs. I would love to know your regimen as hopefully I can adjust my supplement intake accordingly. Thanks.
Why are you not using the best form of D3?
Thanks sending me e mails about save bones I am reading yours mails I have
Osteoporosis I stop my media in following u send me regularly if do u know
Some body knows blood pressure and sugar I need that too thanks for mails
Continue please
Vivian:
I applaud your efforts to provide important information for all women!
But I am confused: I just read in full both citations listed (above) as your references upon which you base your criticism of strontium. Unless I’m missing something, both of these articles conclude that strontium safely strengthens bones, decreases fracture rates, and does all this without damaging the underlying, normal molecular structure of the bone. Could you please tell us what part of these articles spoke badly of strontium? Appreciate your guidance on this!
I started taking Strontium citrate almost a year now, 3-4 hrs after my calcium, and I recently started experiencing heartburn, acid reflux and now diagnosed with stomach ulcers. Just a few days ago, I was having severe stomach pain which comes and goes all day and all night. It seems to be easing up now, but I am afraid to eat and can’t eat much. I am wondering if all this is a side effect of the strontium. I have osteoporosis and osteopenia for years and was on fosamax for a long time but stopped 2 years ago.
Hi Vivian
I already have your Save our Bones Program which is working very well for me, but I need to ask you a question.
I now have an overactive thyroid caused by Graves disease, which is affecting my eyes badly with swelling.
My doctor has therefore put me on declining doses of steroids, but with the steroids he has given me Alendronic Acid 70g to be taken once a week, I have looked this up and found it is Fosimax to protect my bones while I’m on the steroids which I obviously Dont want to take.
Would I be OK just continuing to follow your program even while taking steroids. Thank you so much
MAGNESIUM. It seems t be suggested in some amount to assist in the reformation of bone. However, when I was placed on Magnesium, the Endocrinologist also felt that I needed to take Potassium Chloride, for the sake of my heart. Now that I am off of both, I hesitate to add magnesium back o without knowing that I don’t need to take KCl to balance it out. Any information on that? Thanks, Randy
Perhaps you should do further lit. reviews (even refer to a Cochrane review!!!) before professing the pros and cons of osteoporotic therapy.
In regard to EZorbonline, when I experienced pain in my heels, x-rays showed bone spurs. The doctor recommended over the counter orthotic heel inserts. Went online to research bone spurs and discovered the EZorb website. Ordered the capsules and after both using heel inserts and Ezorb, the pain disappeared. The doctor said it was because of the inserts, but my gut says EZorb had a lot to do with it. I continue to use EZorb to this day (currently taking six capsules) and the pain has vanished completely.
I have been taking Strontium Citrate 2230 MG for about 3 years now. I make sure not to take it with the calcium. Do you suggest I just stop? I also take 400 mg of extra Vitamin K & 10,000 of Vit D3 plus a whole host of other Vitamins, minerals, Omega 3’s etc from a very good absorbable source. I am also on natural hormone cream, Biest 1.5, Progesterone 20, Testosterone 2 and DHEA 10 Mg.
I am not on any drugs for osteoporosis but up to 7 yrs ago was on Fosamax for 2.5 years. I am 68 yrs. My bone density has improved but is it a false reading from Strontium?
I cannot praise the beneficial effects of strontium citrate enough! Six weeks ago I recommended strontium to a relative of mine who has severe osteoporosis. She is in her 70s and experienced unrelenting back pain from vertebral fractures. The old fractures were not healing and new fractures continued to occur. She was taking calcium, magnesium, etc, but nothing helped. Because I also have osteoporosis, and had researched the effects of strontium citrate, I suggested that she start taking strontium. Three weeks later, she was pain-free! Six weeks later she is still pain-free and is now able to clean house again, whereas formerly she was unable to use the vacuum cleaner or even dust the furniture without experiencing intensified pain. Needless to say,she is over-joyed and has developed a whole new outlook on life. As for side effects, they can occur from any over-the-counter product if you don’t use wisdom in taking them, including natural supplements, caffeine, sugar, etc. The key to taking strontium is to allow a least 2 hrs between it and your calcium product, so each of them will properly absorb. As a retired nurse, I have closely examined the research on strontium, and feel quite confident in adding it to my present regimen of natural supplements. Anne
I agree with your positive opinion on Strontium Citrate. I also am a registered nurse. I have read extensively on Strontium. According to a study published in the New England Journal of Medicine, strontium causes the osteoblasts to increase the production of new bone. The only other osteoporosis drug that does this is forteo, and it can only be taken for two years due to the chance of osteosarcoma. The study found no indication that calcium uptake is inhibited from taking Strontium.
From what I have read, it is essential that strontium be taken about 2 hours away from taking any calcium supplements or foods high in calcium.
Strontium is heavier than calcium.
I would like to clarify things a bit about Fosomax, it does not build bone in any real sense, IT SLOWS THE LOSS OF OLD BONE, NOT THE SAME THING. The result is you are not turning over old bone (natual process) and replacing with quality strong bone, therefore, you have more low quality hard bone that is actually more proen to fracture like china even though the DEXA scans give results of improved density (score) which is not the same as or as important as quality of bone. Note: my doctor told me it can take 50 years to rid your body of the damage from Fosomax (or any of the other drugs in the same catagory). Forteo on the other hand is injected daily and limited to 2 years as testing in rats has produced bone cancer and testing on humans was just to two years. Once you stop taking it, the increase you gained begins to reverse again. Also RX is very expensive to the tune of 600.00+ mo and insurance co’s are relunctant to approve. Opt for increased quality of new bone over increased shored up old bone.
If forteo can cause osteosarcoma after two yrs and it works the same way as strontium, is it then possible for strontium to also cause osteosarcoma?
I would like to start a program with vitamins and minerals. I have osteoporosis, osteoartritis, secondary hyperparathyroidism (control with Vitamin D2 and D3) malabsorption, lactose, fructose, sensitive to wheat, rye, barley, and sometimes oats. I also have Sjogrens. I take vitamin d2, d3, jarrow MK-7, vitamin e, selenium, folate 400mcg, manganese, Solgar calcium mag. Carlson ACES, Jarrow CoQ10 200mg and glutahione 250mg cream. Im I on the right track? I do get very tired after I eat. I am very active and in very good shape.
Hello Deborah,
Noticed your Email on this Save Our Bones site. I am a Licensed Clinical Social Worker/Psychotherapist.
It is not usual to get very tired after eating. I went through the same thing, and finally a doctor figured out the cause. Please Email me if you wish some feedback.
mn**@***oo.com
Deborah – My understanding is that hyperparathyroidism is caused by a benign tumor on one or more of the four parathyroid glands, and can only be resolved by a short surgery to remove the tumor. Please see http://www.parathyroid.com. Dr. norman of Tampa seems to be a leading expert on parathyroid issues and I believe I’ve read here that hyperparathyroidism cannot be fixed with vitamin d, although many docs are under that incorrect impression I hope you’re ok, as I see your post was from some time ago,
I would like to add that removal of all four parathyroid glands will elimate your body’s ability to assimilate calcium and result in severe bone loss. Beware. Before excepting anyone’s opinion on this site, make sure you do your homework and research and talk to a Dr. I know everyone means well, but you must be carefull of misinformation.
My blood calcium went up to 10.7 and alarmed my doctor enough that she was going to send me to an endocrinologist to check my parathyroid. I had a gut feeling it was the Vit D3 she had me on at 8,000 IU a day for several years. I cut back on the D3 to2,000 IU most days with occasional days taking 3,000 IU and my next bloodwork came back with the blood calcium back to normal where it had been for years before. Every one is different. What works for some can be harmful for others.
I have been advised by my Dr. to have a aclasta injection or medication I was diagnoised with Osteoporosis two yeats ago I would not have the needle or medication. My T scores are worse than before I still do not want to take the course the Dr. would like me too. I had tried weights and exercise however did not stick to a goood routine.
I ordered four books and audio tape from the save our bones program and only ever recieved one book I did call but had no response I never recieved the other three books and audio tape I paid for.
I thought I would give this program one more go as I am afraid to take the Dr. advice. Any advice for me I do not feel like buying the books again as they probably will not arrive.
What are your thoughts and recommendations concerning the consumption of water from a water purification system that is said to produce alkaline water as being a great health benefit.
Vivian,
I would be interested in your reaction to Lara Pizzorno’s comments posted in her blog (see link below). She disputes many of your claims as does my naturopath who is recommending I take 320 mg strontium citrate every second day. Sure is confusing and makes it difficult to know what to do.
https://www.algaecal.com/Blog/the-truth-about-strontium-supplements-side-effects-dexa-results-efficacy-and-more/11333
Lorraine
Lorraine,
If you ever check back with this blog…..thank you do much for your informative link.
Sandy
Many doctors continue to recommend strontium. In fact, when it first came out on the market, my doctor was ecstatic. Then it seemed to disappear for a while, and then make a dramatic comeback. You will note, Vivian, that some doctors do not agree with you that Strontium makes bones thicker but more brittle. In fact, they indicate the opposing view, that it makes bones both thicker and more flexible. One doctor, in particular, has an advertising flyer she sends out, praising Strontium to the skies. So who does a vulnerable person believe, when there are so many different points of view? I know your motives are pure and I, personally, trust what you say. However, there are some women who are gung-ho about strontium and it would be difficult to change their minds in view of the favorable advertising today.
Hi Gloria,
I reluctantly took strontium 3 years ago after diagnosed with osteoporosis when I had triple fracture in my ankle. Luckily, after only 6 days I developped bad skin rash on my chest and immediatelly stopped taking it. Why I say luckilly, since I don´t ever take any drugs, I only use natural things, my smart body warned me. My doctor offered some different drugs which I politely refused and told him that I was going to do it my way, naturally. Last year I had 5 percent improvement and now with Vivian´s help I am sure I can do even better. I am 64 years young.
Maria
Hi Vivian,
Would you please give us the citation for research upon which you base your assertions regarding Strontium?
Thank you for all your work toward helping us strengthen bones without drugs.
Pam
Hi Pam – You’ll find the citations at the end of the article. 🙂
Vivian:
I applaud your efforts to provide important information for all women!
But I am confused: I just read in full both citations listed (above) as your references upon which you base your criticism of strontium. Unless I’m missing something, both of these articles conclude that strontium safely strengthens bones, decreases fracture rates, and does all this without damaging the underlying, normal molecular structure of the bone. Could you please tell us what part of these articles spoke badly of strontium? Appreciate your guidance on this!
Thank you for all of the work you have put in to help those of us with ostioporosis. Without you and your book, I would have found myself on possibly devasting medication. My first scan shows definite improvement.
However, more improvement would be good, so I’ve been researching vibration therapy. Do you have any thoughts on this?
Hi Leith,
First, congratulations on your improvement! The vibrating plates are still shrouded with controversy. For example, people with spinal injuries, such as slipped discs or pinched nerves may increase damage by using the machine. I have not researched it in great detail because there are so many other ways to increase density without the added expense of this equipment.
I tried vibration machine and it increased my back pain.