The Whey To Bone Health - Save Our Bones

We have a tremendously smart and educated Save Our Bones community that's always interested in seeking out the latest research. As it turns out, some members wrote in about lactoferrin just as I was in the process of researching the latest findings to share with you. I love that kind of synchronicity!

So what is lactoferrin and why should you consider including it in your bone health regimen?

The Scoop on Lactoferrin

Lactoferrin is an iron-binding glycoprotein (a glycoprotein is a molecule that contains both carbohydrate and protein). One of its actions is to help  transport iron from the blood to the cells, thus controlling the iron levels in the blood.

It is most abundant in human colostrum (the milk produced just prior to giving birth) and in slightly lesser amounts in human breast milk. Other than human breast milk, the best source of lactoferrin is in cows' milk. 1

How Does Lactoferrin Help Bone Health?

Lactoferrin is rapidly emerging as a natural bone building factor. A recent study by researchers at the University of Auckland in New Zealand found that:

“At physiological concentrations, lactoferrin potently stimulates the proliferation and differentiation of primary osteoblasts and also acts as a survival factor inhibiting apoptosis induced by serum withdrawal. Lactoferrin also affects osteoclast formation and, in murine bone marrow culture, lactoferrin potently inhibits osteoclastogenesis. In vivo, local injection of lactoferrin above the hemicalvaria of adult mice results in substantial increases in the dynamic histomorphometric indices of bone formation and bone area.”

In other words, unlike bisphosphonate drugs, lactoferrin affects bone resorption and deposition in a natural way that works with bone metabolism rather than against it.

The Importance of Bone Remodeling

As I write in the Osteoporosis Reversal Program, the bone remodeling process is of prime importance. During this process, bone cells called osteoclasts move through bone tissue with the purpose of capturing old bone for its removal. Once this happens, small serrated spaces are left behind so that bone cells called osteoblasts can deposit new bone. This is how old bone is replaced with brand new bone, thus increasing tensile strength to prevent fractures. About 5 to 10% of all our bone tissue is replaced – or turned over -during one year.

For a lighthearted educational view of the bone remodeling process, check out my blog post starring Oscar the Osteoclast, “How Your Bones Renew Themselves: An Inside Look.”

I often mention the problems with the bisphophonate drugs that are all too commonly prescribed for osteoporosis and osteopenia. Not only do these drugs have potentially devastating side effects, they don't result in healthier bones!

Bisphosphonates alter the delicate bone remodeling process and thus affect bone chemistry in a way that ultimately results in weaker bones. Lactoferrin, on the other hand, affects these processes in a natural way and shows promise as a means of stimulating healthy bone growth.

Other Benefits of Lactoferrin

Lactoferrin has other desirable health properties. It boosts the immune system and protects against viruses, bacteria and other infectious organisms.2 And by inhibiting cytokine mediators that lead to inflammation, lactoferrin also helps reduce inflammation, both in the skin and in the digestive system.3

So, in addition to the bone health benefits, there are good reasons to add lactoferrin to your routine.

But I Thought You Said Not to Drink Milk

Indeed I did, and you can read all the reasons in ‘Debunking the Milk Myth: Why Milk is Bad for Your Bones'. But I have also said that whey, the watery substance that is left after milk is curdled, is alkalizing and healthy.

Milk has two main sources of protein: cassein and whey, and it's the alkalizing whey that contains lactoferrin. So you don't need to drink milk in order to get the benefits of lactoferrin.

In fact, the best  way to get lactoferrin is by drinking a whey protein shake with almond milk, another milk substitute, or even water. 

Whey Protein: An Issue of Purity

Some whey proteins have been found to be contaminated with heavy metals. That's why the one I use is Solgar’s Whey to Go. It's been certified clear of any heavy metals and other contaminants by Consumer Reports.4

My daily whey protein shake is one of my favorite pick-me-ups, and I look forward to its refreshing and invigorating boost. I especially enjoy it after exercising or after my walks.

Of course, Whey to Go is free of bovine growth hormone (rBGH) and is minimally processed at low temperatures to protect all the valuable nutrients. It's available in three delicious natural flavors: vanilla, chocolate, and strawberry. I always buy vanilla as it has the least amount of sugar, but they're all acceptable so choose your favorite!

Here’s to our healthy bones!

References

1 Sánchez L, Calvo M, Brock JH (1992). “Biological role of lactoferrin”. Arch. Dis. Child. 67 (5): 657–61.) 
2 Adamik, B and Walszczyk, A. (1996): [Lactoferrin: its role in defence against infection and immunotropic properties.] Postepy Higieny Medycyny Doswiadczalnej 50:33-41.
3 Bellamy, W., Yamauchi, K., Wakabayashi, H., Takakura, N., Shimamura, S. and Tomita, M (1994) Antifungal properties of lactoferricin B, a peptide derived from the N-terminal region of lactoferrin. Letters Appl. Microbiol. 18:230-233.
4 https://www.consumerreports.org/health/natural-health/protein-drinks/whats-in-your-protein-drink/index.htm

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    In the study that suggests milk is bad for bones it was thought that the real problem was galactose. Whey is mostly protein AND lactose. In the body, the lactose is broken down to glucose and galactose, the very thing believed to cause the increase in fractures.
    Based on this, it appears your logic and justification of whey drained from yogurt while condemning milk is flawed.

  4. Eva Spro

    I really don’t understand why people buy whey protein powders and other commercially produced products – what do you think people were eating before all these was made?
    I grew up on fermented curd and whey milk, so did my mother and grandmother and people for thousands of years before me.
    If you want a natural and organic whey – make your own by learning how to ferment milk, and use any milk you like, you can also use coconut or almond milk if you prefer. And you control what’s in it as it will not have any harmful additives.
    Make your own milk kefir or water kefir (for which you need to have a starter – but do not use a powdered kefir starter , use the real stuff), make kombucha, sauerkraut, kimchi, apple cider vinegar, whatever you like – rather than buying commercially produced expensive products – and it is much cheaper as well, to make sauerkraut you only need cabbage and unrefined salt!
    I never use any powdered starters and do not recommend them, our ancestors did not either, however they lived on fermented foods as a staple which enriches and makes the food easier to digest – that’s why whey is so good for you!
    Google the benefits of fermented products and how to make them, there are free recipes on internet.
    Don’t make someone else rich by eating their unhealthy products which do not give you any benefits.
    Here is your answer, enjoy!

    • morgan

      Any milk? What in the world are you talking about. Getting curds and whey from commercial is like getting eggs from chickens who spend their entire life in a tiny pen. Commercial milk rots, it doesn’t turn into curds and whey. I was looking for raw milk in Tennessee and was told there was a Monastery up in the hills. I went there and was given three gallons in glass jugs, the brother were amazingly kind and generous. We went through two of the jugs of raw milk and I forgot about the third. One day I opened the trunk and noted another container of milk was there but the top of the jug had been neatly separated without a hint of shattered glass and what remained was curds. I was on the verge of tossing the curds but something said, “Taste them.” I did and wiped out about a pint in less than minute, it was delicious but it needed air and the bounce of the car gave it added energy and the result was delicious. My kids and wife ate the rest during the day and I realized I would always have curds but mostly whey. What do now I make yogurt from raw milk, then in 24 hours after the yogurt is completely ready, I put the yogurt already separating some of the whey and put it in a cheese cloth. In about half a day, I have a pint from a quart o yogurt and the yogurt I now Greek yogurt, but it’s the whey that matters. Greek yogurt company toss the whey since don’t know what to do with it, though they try to make palatable whey protein but they use crap milk and such milk has pesticides, growth hormones and other nasty stuff., Make yogurt from certified raw milk on pasture and separate the curd portion from the mix and drink the whey liquid. Forget about whey protein, too much processing, go for the liquid whey.

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  7. rowena

    HI Vivian
    thanks so much for all your valuable information and support. I am totally committed to building my bones up naturally without drugs, and your articles are so important
    and give me hope when even my own husband thinks its impossible to cure osteo
    without drugs

  8. Mich

    I am very keen on bodybuilding. I am doing it for four years now. During these four years I realised that the best supplements you can find are here https://www.synthetek.com/products/synthepure-whey-protein-isolate/
    I use almost all of their products and I see bigger results that I have expected.

  9. Raymonde Savoie

    I’m extremely sensitive to MILK PROTEINS, not necessarily the lactose in milk, therefore both Casein and Whey are a super no-no for me. As well, casein is implicated in many health problems and I would not recommend it to anyone.

  10. Mary

    I am excited for an alternative to the drug I was on. I have bought your program and am just starting it. I thought whey protein would be especially good for my bones as I also have rheumatoid arthritis. However my doctor (not the one who prescribed Reclast) said that as Americans we consume way too much protein, which actually hurts our bodies and health. He talks about kidney problems when we consume too much protein. (The RA drugs are also hard on the kidneys.) In addition, I already consume lots of protein through meats and other dietary foods. Do I need whey protein in addition to my diet?

    • Vilma

      I enjoy every day reading your articles. Thank you.

  11. Philomina Gwanfogbe

    Vivian,

    I observed that you have not answered the question regarding the Solgar’s Whey to Go contents. Why is that?

  12. Linda Sullivan

    Vivian, I read a lot of your blogs and emails, and have stopped the bisphosphonates. I am eating better and taking supplements that make sense. One thing I am starting to realize is that the cost of various senisble supplements can be as much or more per month than the $108 I spent every 4 weeks for the meds. I am on a tight budget with the economy the way it is right now and this is as big of a burden as the meds were financially. I would like to find the most optimal all inclusive (as possible) supplement that is cost effective. I would like to see a blog addressing this topic as I am sure there are others like me who need to get the best benefit at a reasonable cost. Would you consider doing one?

    • Aranya

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  13. jdial

    Unfortunately, not everyone digests whey well. If you cramp and swell up with gas after drinking it, those are signs!

    However there is good protein available in high quality, low-carbohydrate rice protein. The one I have is made from enzymatically processed whole-grain, sprouted brown rice. One heaping tablespoon (15 grams) of the brand I’m using contains 12 grams of protein and total carbohydrate of 2 grams with 1 gram of dietary fiber. Sweetened (by me) with pure cacao and xylitol, the taste is equivalent to that of the whey, but the effects on my body are so much better!

    • jdial

      Also, my source of rice protein is vegan. The brand is NutriBiotic.

  14. Marie

    Always look forward to reading your articles and your book on bone health.
    I’m for sure going to head to the health store for the Solgar Whey to go.

    Thank you again for all you educational material

  15. Frances Maxwell

    I use on a daily basis Triotein™. This is a high-quality, lactose-free Whey Protein powder that also provides that amino acid substrates needed to stimulate the body’s production of intracellular glutathione peroxidase (GSH)*. Which is the bodies master intracellular anti-oxidant. There are no contra indications to this product except for the following; you should not take this product if you have a milk protein allergy as you will have a reaction, and any one who has had an organ transplant and is receiving immunosuppressant therapy should not take the product.

  16. Donna

    Vivian,
    Can you tell me if you use a brand of Almond Milk that doesn’t contain carrageenan? There is controversy regarding its safety and i cannot seem to find any Almond Milk that doesn’t have it in it. Thanks for all the information you provide! Love it!
    Donna

    • Sally

      Whole Foods brand of unsweetened almond milk has no carrageenan

  17. Donna

    I AM CONFUSED ABOUT WHEY DRINKS. DR MERCOLA’S PRODUCT IS NOT HEAT PROCESSED AND ACCORDING TO HIM A MORE HEALTHY PRODUCT. I WANT TO BE AS HEALTHY AS I POSSIBLY CAN. HOW DO I KNOW WHAT IS REALLY TRUE? PLEASE COMMENT

  18. joan

    I recently bought yogurt with added whey protein. Yotastic! all natural plain nonfat yogurt distributed by Supervalu, Inc.

  19. Frannie Weber

    Is whey protein isolate the same as whey protein?
    Thanks.

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Frannie, whey protein isolate and whey protein concentrate are both whey protein, just obtained by different methods.

      • Paula

        I found this answer regarding which Whey Protien to use on Mercola’s Newsletter. Maybe it will help the person who ask about the difference about the whey protien and whey isolate.
        Hope it can help.
        https://proteinpowder.mercola.com/Miracle-Whey-Protein.html

        I use his and it makes a nice drink and easy to mix.

  20. Joan Sandlin

    Please comment on the use of Ultimate Bone Support, recommended by Dr. Nan Fuchs containing Strontium.
    Thanks,Joan S

  21. Gillian Ward

    Hi Vivian Thanks for the articles.Vivian do you have a list of alkaline foods that alternate for the whey protien. Cause I am allergic to milk.

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Hi Gillian- If you’re allergic to milk products, you don’t have to eat whey. As is the case with all of the individual foods I discuss, whey/lactoferrin is just one option among many, and no one food is required. With the Osteoporosis Reversal Program you have everything you need. Thousands of people regained their bone health through the program before I ever mentioned whey or lactoferrin. 🙂

  22. Judy

    Vivian,
    The GYN just put my sister on something called Fosteum (Geniston). She has good bone density, so I’m wondering what is this medication all about. We have the same doctor, but he never mentioned this product to me.
    Judy

  23. M.E.

    Interesting article, so I checked into the Solgar whey product and found that it is not vegetarian (essential for me) and contains soy (unspecified if it is from fermented or raw soy) – which also makes a difference as I am in menopause and my Dr. recommends only taking fermented soy; which means no soy milk either.

    I agree with a previous post regarding the ethics of consuming animal products (as it is done in our culture). Food is much more than the physical nutrition that it contains – we must consider the energetic properties of what we put into our bodies. Animals used as commodities suffer greatly and it is my belief that their suffering is passed on energetically via the animal-based product consumed. It is no coincidence that many people who eat an animal-based diet are exceedingly unhealthy.

  24. Rachel De Rienzo

    Hi Vivian, thank you for this interesting information. I have ordered some colostrum lactoferin capsules a few days ago. It was recommended to protect against swine flu a few years ago and I thought would be good to protect from the winter flu viruses around the corner. I’m very pleased to hear that it’s also good for improving bone density too:-) Rachel

  25. Nu Ly

    I’m very interested in your article today-whey
    Protein, I’ll try it. Thank you

  26. irene karas

    I am concerned about this whey drink. The reason is this sounds very muck like the Beneprotien drink my mother thad to drink when she had a stage 4 wound. The home health care nurses asked us to stop it because it can damage your kidneys. Until i hear this is not
    possible we are not doing it.

  27. Patricia Simcoe

    Thanks for so much useful info. I have been using Bluebonnet’s whey protein isolate with good results…..sweetened with stevia only, tastes great.

  28. Amanda cassidy

    Thanks for all your information. Does the save our bones eating program help with arthritis. I am developing it in my hands. Many thanks

  29. Carolyn Cash

    I tried a milk or rice whey product and it caused my coumadin to completely
    stop working. It was as if I weren’t even taking the coumadin according
    to my INR blood test. I think there was an enzyme responsible for
    that. Could that be the cause? Is there a whey product that will not
    block my Coumadin?
    Thanks for your help,
    Carolyn

  30. Cathy

    Thanks Vivian. I’m happy to hear I’m doing the right thing. I have been drinking smoothies using Whey Protein Isolate (no sugar), fruit, and almond milk (no sugar) for a couple of years now; along with many other healthy habits for good bone health. So thanks for confirming I’m on the right track. I read all of your emails and they do keep me in line for sure as far as my health goes.

    Cathy

  31. Barbara

    Vivian,
    I appreciate your continuous education to the community; however, you said: “A recent study by researchers at the University of Auckland in New Zealand found that…..”. How recent? Your references are from 1992, 1994, and 1996.

  32. Linda

    Thanks for the info on whey to go. iHerb.com also carries is now and is in stock. I check with Vitacost and they are out of stock. Almond milk can be purchased at any grocery store. I would think that trying to make it would be a ton of work.

  33. Sandy

    I’m confused. Is greek yogurt ok or not. I eat a lot of Fage Total 0% Greek yogurt but am now wondering if I’m doing the wrong thing. Should I switch to just plain non fat yogurt? Am if I eat it in combination with fruits does that destroy the alkalinization effect?
    Also do the soy and almond milk need to be plain. I really don’t like the favor of any except vanilla. Is it really bad to drink those?

  34. bea

    hi vivian is it safe to take the flu shot it is about that time and i would really like to know thank you bea

  35. Rosemary Lambert

    It seems there are many whey products on the market, and some like “anyway” do not contain sweetners of any kind. From reading comments posted here, it looks like we should look for whey that is undenatured and from grass fed cows. I think Vivian could comment further on her Solgar choice and why she cooses that over these other brands. She says nothing about whether it is undenatured or from concentrate, so we are left a little confused reading all the other commnents about which to choose. One person said get Dr. Mercola’s whey as it is the best?

    • Donna

      APPRECIATE YOUR COMMENTS. YOUR CONCERNS ARE MINE. I HAVE READ DR MERCOLA’S COMMENTS ALSO. MY OTHER CONCERN ABOUT THE SOLGAR IS THE SOY CONTENT. DO WE USE SOY OR NOT/

      • Kim

        Donna, turn your caps key off, please. It’s synonymous with shouting.

  36. Celia

    I like to drink almond milk. Can someone please give me the recipe for how to make almond milk. Thank you very much.

    • Sharon

      Almond milk is so easy and inexpensive to make and much more delicious than the processed, packaged product. Soak a small handful of raw almonds in filtered water overnight. Rinse the almonds in the morning. Place in a blender- the high-powered ones like Vitamix or Blendtec work best, of course, but I have used regular blenders as well. It’s helpful to soak and rinse the almonds several times over a couple of days if using a regular blender. Blend at high power until you see the milky consistency. Strain through a fine mesh sieve. That’s it- enjoy! I don’t use sugar, but you may add your own flavours at this point- raw agave, chocolate powder, whatever. I love to blend mine in the Vitamix until the milk warms up and foams- delicious! Why would you want to pay way more money at the grocery store for the watery almond milk from a box?

  37. Celia

    can you please someone give the reciepe for almond milk. thank you

    • Minia Roth

      Almond Mild

      2 cups raw almonds
      Filtered water

      Soak almonds over night in filtered water. Drain and rinse and put portioned amounts in a high speed blender. Cover with filtered water and blend until creamy and foamy. Strain through fine mesh sieve. Repeat until all almonds are used. If this is too much almond milk at a time, try soaking one cup instead of two. Once all the almonds are blended, I take all of the almond pulp and re-blend it with more water then sieve it again.

      Freeze the almond pulp for other uses as it is quite nutritious.

      I could not go back to commercially prepared almond milk once I began making my own. It is that delicious.

  38. Amino Acid Glutamine

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  39. Annette

    Could you give us a list of all the ingredients in “Whey To Go?”

  40. GFNewman

    Dear Vivian Goldschmidt,
    I read your review of lactoferrin and your conclusions by chance on someone’s else’s email. Interesting, but it fails to address a deeply fundalmental moral and philosophical point: health is not derived entirely by physical process; good health also requires spiritual (not religious) imput. You cannot be entirely healthy while ignoring the moral responsibility we have to other sentient creatures that share this planet. Taking cow’s milk for humans in any form is thief and displays moral turpitude. A calf bonds with its cow mother over a period of eight months (were it allowed to!)Most are stripped from their mothers at 3days in order that the lactating cow can provide milk for humans and whey for ‘healthy’ (sic) bones. Better we suffer than go on perpetuating this cycle of suffering in to ‘other nations’ that inevitably rebounds on humans is ill-health. You need only look to the Bantu women as our model: no milk from other species, no lactoferrin, yet they have some of the healthiest sets of bones in the world. Get your subscribers off their animal protein diets to get them healthy; them get them thinking about what we are doing to the ‘other nations’ and the world and perhaps stopping it in order to get both mental, moral and spiritual health.
    Warm wishes,
    GF

    • Theresa

      yes, the bobby calf killing is so inhumane. I decided I didn’t want to be part of it

    • M.E.

      I wholeheartedly agree with what you have written, and posted a similar comment.

  41. Loretta R

    I am taking daily injections of Forteo. Would love to find a natural way to accomplish the same thing. Can I also use Whey to Go ?

    • Be aware

      Just a comment about the fabulous Forteo. I have a relative who was in Forteo for many years she had now broken almost all of her vertabraes and have necrosis (no teeth). so be aware of the benefits of Forteo.

  42. mary t ball

    So does plain greek yoghurt contain whey at all Vivian?
    mary.

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Hi Mary,

      Greek yogurt is strained to remove the whey. That’s actually what differentiates it from “regular” yogurt.

  43. LESLIE

    Hi! VIVIAN,

    I’VE BEEN LOOKING INTO MILK ALTERNATIVES MYSELF. AND ALMOND MILK SOUNDS DELICIOUS! I LOVE ALMONDS ANYWAY! THANK YOU FOR ALL YOU DO!

    LOVE, MS. L.

  44. Robbie

    I Vivian, My favorite breakfast is a banana and strawberry smoothie made with almond milk or water with a large scoop of whey protein powder. It really gives me a lift and gets me through the morning. Love your blog. Pax

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Sounds yummy, Robbie, and great for your bones! 🙂

  45. Shula

    Question: what about the watery substance in yogurt. does it contain whey as well?

    Thanks- shula

  46. Andrea

    I just read about lactoferrin and the recommended product. What options would I have if I am lactose intolerant since this is a whey product. I have switched to almond milk, and can eat cheese and yogurt, but I would be nervous about trying this product, but would like the other benefits in regards to my bone health.

    Thank you.

    Reepecfilly,
    Andrea

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Andrea, see my response to Dallas and Diane below.

      There are no vegan sources of lactoferrin that I’m aware of, but as I told Dallas and Diane, you can definitely be successful on the program without it. Thousands of people regained their bone health on the Osteoporosis Reversal Program before I ever mentioned whey or lactoferrin. 🙂

    • Linda

      Andrea,

      I am also lactose intolerant but can do Almond milk without a problem (plus it tastes wonderful). I also use a whey protein product (not the one listed though) without a problem as well. Good luck!

    • Bobbie

      The whey protein is excellent I am sure, but there are many of us with a whey allergy or food intolerance. Is there some method of getting lactoferrin other than with whey?

      • Rena

        Hello Niji,Gout is mainly caseus by a diet high in purine foods, such as seafood and meat, and meat organs.Whey protein is a low fat dairy product and actually is recommended for those suffering from gout as it is LOW in purine.So no worries there. But whatever it is, everything should be taken in moderation, including whey.I personally use whey BEFORE and AFTER my workouts. Hope this helps. -2Was this answer helpful?

  47. Celeste

    Hi,
    You mentioned that Milk is bad for your bones in past info, but that is Milk that has been pasturized. Milk that is fresh is not acidic or the nutrients cooked out of it. Correct? I have dairy goats that we Milk daily. Please clear this confusion.

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Hi Celeste,

      I still don’t recommend dairy milk, but yes, raw goat milk is more alkalizing and much better nutritionally than pasteurized cows’ milk.

    • Barbara

      Goat milk is the closest to human mother’s milk and an excellent replacement for cow’s milk.

  48. Bernadette O'Reilly

    Vivian, Do you know why you cannot buy the Solgar Whey on the Go Protein powder in Canada?

    • Diana Demers

      Hi Bernadette, I have found a great whey protein in Canada – Message me if you would like more info.

    • Rucha

      Why would you want to increase your fat???? If you put on wihget it should still be lean muscle not fat. When you gain wihget some will be fat anyway. You won’t build muscle unless you go to the gym anyways. Just practice sound nutrition but eat more often to gain wihget ..but gain good wihget

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      I don’t know why that is the case, Bernadette. But if you do an online search for organic, contaminant free whey, you should be able to find a good source in Canada. Or you could ask at a local health food store or vitamin shop.

  49. Debbie

    I use Source Naturals certified organic “Whey to Health” premium protein powder concentrate (not an isolate)from grass fed cows. Contains NOTHING but whey – no hidden sources of msg, no yeast, egg, gluten, corn, soy, wheat, starch preservatives, or artificial color, flavor or fragrance. I get it at iHerb.com. (where you can also get the blender bottle for $3.50 when ordering the whey right now!)

  50. Lynda Cast

    Isn’t buttermilk the same as yogurt, but with the whey left in it? Wouldn’t buttermilk be a good source of whey?
    Thanks,
    Lynda

    • Carolyn Cash

      I am wondering the same thing. I wonder if I can use buttermilk, kefer, or
      greek yogurt and get the same effect? I take coumadin, and methotrexate and
      don’t want anything in the whey product to interact with the meds.
      Carolyn

  51. Carole Coleman

    Hi Vivian,

    I totally have confidence in YOU! How, do I get to your blog? I want to read about Oscar the Osteoclast, “How Your Bones Renew Themselves: An Inside Look.”

    I pass your articles on to three other friends who have been diagnosed with osteopina. One is taking the “forbidden drugs”. His wife took it with no problems. Have not convinced him to get off of them. I guess he’s had no side effects but as you say and I’ve read in other places too they make your bones brittle. Do not want him to fall and won’t say I told you so if he does but. . . . .

    My other two friends pay attention to what I send to them. They are NOT on the drugs. And are doing good with diet and weight exercies including yoga.

    I was diagnosed with Osteoporosis. Have not gone back yet for a bone test but I really feel that my bones are stronger. At least my muscles are a lot stronger. I could not do push ups before I started yoga two years ago and NOW I can.

    Please let me know how to get to your blog. Thanks. Carole

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Sorry Carole, I forgot to include the link to Oscar’s post. I’ve edited that, and you can now click on the title (How Your Bones Renew Themselves: An Inside Look) to get to the post.

  52. Gloria Q.

    Vivian,
    Many thanks for all the wonderful information you share. Have enjoyed watching your website grow, as well as your knowledge base. Have a concern about whey protein. After I had been taking it for about 5-6 months, I started having gout attacks. Couldn’t believe it. I’m not overweight, eat well, take only a thyroid supplement. When I researched whey protein on the internet, began to see that many men were getting gout attacks. My directions said to take about 1/3rd cup, and I still wonder why a light weight person should take as much as a 250 lb. man. Does one size really fit all with this stuff? I started out with Dr. Mercola’s but then switched and became confused over whey “concentrate” vs. “isolate.” I now learn the isolate type can be dangerous– not sure why. I stopped taking the whey powder. Have not had problems since, but was astounded with what happened to me. Perhaps you can enlighten us on safe portions and the right type of Whey. I understand organic fed cows, but how much and what kind? How safe is it?

  53. Denise Sanders

    Hi Vivian! Thank you for this information about the whey protein powder. I will try it out! What about Kefir? Is it good for you, your bones ect.? Please let me know? I have been drinking it lately instead of milk. Thank you so much Vivian, Blessings, Denise Sanders

  54. Elizabeth Morrow

    Not much is mentioned about unnecessary hysterectomies and osteoperosis and the connection,why?

  55. ken

    hi.been on injection/biophosphates one 60dose pimidronate, how long do they stay active in body,last injection was 14mth ago,still having muscle pains thanks ken

  56. Rebecca

    It is VERY important that whey come from grass-fed cows, and the only whey protein that is safe in my opinion is from Dr Mercola. I would not trust Solgar. Please check Mercola’s website and read about how the whey protein is processed.

  57. Mary Ann

    I was wondering if Smart Balance milk is okay to drink

    • Rebecca

      Processed milk in any form is not safe to drink. Raw milk from grass-fed cows is excellent, but hard to find. Here is a good site about REAL milk: https://realmilk.com/why.html

  58. Bonnie

    Is it safe to drink one cup of organic soy every day to get natural plant based estrogen? My Dr. wanted me to take some other “natural” replacement but I would rather take organic soy if works the same.

  59. Roxanne

    I located lactoferrin in pill form at a health food store. However, they only had one bottle and did not seem interested in ordering more. I looked at the different whey protein powders and some listed it as an ingredient. It was just a very small percentage of the whey protein powder. I don’t see any listing on the Solgar brand. How do we know how much is in it? How much do we need?

  60. Alison

    I avoid dairy due to its mucous-generating properties. Is that a problem with whey protein, too? Thanks!

    • Marylke

      I get lots of mucous from drinking milk, too, but not at all from whey protein.

  61. Dallas

    I am allergic to both cow’s and goat’s milk. However, does the whey also cause allergies?

    • Diane Martinson

      I would like to know that too, I have had an allergy or sensitivity to cows milk all my life, I get rashes and some digestive disturbances but they’re mild so I do have cheese a couple times a month. But could I take the whey everyday?

      • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

        Dallas and Diane, Many people who have dairy or lactose sensitivities are able to tolerate whey, but that’s not always the case. Your doctor or allergist would be the best person to consult about individual food sensitivities.

        And remember, you don’t have to eat any one particular food or substance to be successful on the program. Thousands of people regained their bone health through the Osteoporosis Reversal Program before I ever talked about whey or lactoferrin. 🙂

  62. Rebeca Wagner

    I have read that Advil is very bad pain killer with numerous side effects. My question is what pain killer is advisable to take with minimum
    side effects.
    Thank you

  63. Annena Hampton

    Just a quick question. I eat a fair amount of Greek yogurt – plain with stevia as a sweetner. Obviously, yogurt has whey. Is it a good source of the lactoferrin?

    • Rosemary

      That’s how I start my day also. Greek yogurt, banana, and blueberries, and a sprinkle of cinnamon.

      I read many years ago to eat blueberries everyday. I do but I forgot why. Their high in antioxidants anyway. Obviously, they aren’t a brain food.

      At the time of eating the yogurt, I take my D3 and K2. I read the proper dose of K2 is 150 mcg. I want the calcium in the bones and not in the arteries.

      I use to drink whey, and found one without soy. Very important to be soy free. I also think it was organic which is also important. For the life of me I can’t remember the name of the product. This company was proud of all the extra ingredients that we don’t want…to not be in their product. It’s worth seaching the net for.

  64. marcia hunt

    Vivian please read Eye Damage from MSG in Experimental Eye Research, Sept 2002, 75: 307 also Food Navigator.com October 23, 2002. I used 60 grams of whey protein powder for about a year and now have glaucoma and severe optic nerve damage. I did not have glaucoma a year and a half ago. It seems that free glutamic acid found in whey in a form of msg which is problematic. It is the processing of the milk that caused this issue.

    • Susan

      I found an article that addresses this concern. Apparently it is important to consume whey protein that specifically states it is “undenatured.” In other words, it is not processed at high heat. Raw whey does not contain free glutamic acid. So choose carefully. https://www.getting-started-with-healthy-eating.com/undenatured-whey-protein.html

      • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

        That’s right, Susan. 🙂

        Free glutamic acid is formed when whey is denatured by using high heat to process the product. That is why I recommend using those that are minimally processed at low temperatures, such as Whey To Go. Plus 60 grams is a huge dose! One scoop of Whey To Go, which is the recommended daily intake, is only 25 grams.

  65. Linda Mann

    Two Questions:
    Is the whey product (Solgar) she recommends — is it organic? If not, does she have concerns about this?
    For people who have cow’s milk sensitivity — is whey okay to eat?
    Thank you!

  66. Lorran

    I’ve been reading about strontium being better than calcium for bone strength. What do you think? I have heard that too much calcium clogs the arteries.

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Lorran, I don’t recommend supplemental strontium. To find out why, read https://saveourbones.com/strontium-demistyfied/

    • Annie

      Lorran,
      If you take K2 MK4 that is the K, that will put the Calcium in your bones, not your arteries.
      K2 MK4 does not have a long shelve life, so to speak, in the body, so it should be taken 2 to 3 times aday.

      The other k’s build up in the body, so you do not need to take them everyday.

      I take Throne liquid K2 MK4..only two drops twice aday..You might start with one drop, then go to two or more.
      Be careful. Some people take too much and get an irregular heart beat. That can happen with any K though.

      Strontium is very different then Calcium.
      You still have to take calcium , but apart from strontium.
      There can be side effects to Strontium, but only a few get it..

      Read and be proactive with everything you take.

  67. Geraldene

    Thank you Vivian for clearing up the ?? I had regarding milk being acidic….thought whey must be too. Years ago we bought a product called whey-lite here in Australia. It was a powder that had to be mixed. I don’t know if it is still available. From memory I think it was made in New Zealand. Thanks again for your helpful articles. Geraldene

  68. Annie

    Vivian,
    Is Lactoferrin Organic? If its not, I think we are wasting our time eating poison!

    You can also buy Lactoferrin in a capsule form. Its freezed dried from Jarrow. There on the internet, and I think Amazon sells it also.
    I’m sure other Companies sell it.

    This is what Jarrow says about Lactoferrin:
    “Jarrow FORMULAS® Lactoferrin is an important immune supporting glycoprotein that is found in breast milk, tears, and other body fluids.* One of the biological activities of lactoferrin comes from its powerful ability to bind iron (300 times that of serum transferrin), which promotes the growth of beneficial bacteria.* Moreover, digestion of lactoferrin by gastric pepsin liberates the immune supporting peptide lactoferricin B.*

    Jarrow FORMULAS® Lactoferrin is freeze-dried and processed at low temperatures to preserve potency and activity”

    I do not know if Jarrows is Organic!!

    If you have stomach problems, or a low Immune system this will help.
    Plus the benifts for our bones.

    I have nothing to do with Jarrow or Amazon.
    I just thought this might be a easier way to take it,
    then make a smoothie!

    Annie

    • Linda

      I would also like to know if you can take capsules of lactoferrin instead of protein powder and if so, what one to purchase.

    • Glenda McAuliffe

      I would like to know Vivian’s opinion on this product and how it compares to the whey protein powder she recommends.

  69. kidz 5 a day

    My mother has started using this program and loves it! a big thank you Vivian 🙂

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