Vivian Answers Day #12: Osteoarthritis, Red Algae, Hiatal Hernia, Femur Fractures, Maca Powder, Green Tea, And More! - Save Our Bones

Question & Answer #1

One year ago I was diagnosed with osteoarthritis in my knees. I am 51 now and am a little better than I was. I also experience muscle fatigue on the right side of my body. Is there a relation between the two? I have lost 50 lbs and need to lose a little more. I want to know what vitamins and the best diet I should be on to best improve my condition. My doctors have been of no help. He just diagnosed me and sent me on way. I do have the glucosamine & chondroitin pills and also MSM (I take them off and on). I want to get better & restore my health.

-Doreen

Dear Doreen,

Arthritis issues are unfortunately very common in the Western world, and it really doesn't have to be so. Sometimes osteoarthritis is confused with osteoporosis, but these conditions are not related. Your muscle fatigue on one side is most likely because your body compensates by shifting weight in an unnatural way, subconsciously trying to find a way out of painful movements and altering your gait.

Joint problems that lead to arthritis begin with inflammation following microdamage to cartilage, which quickly gets aggravated by faulty nutrition. You are on the right track because you have lost excess weight which aggravates arthritis symptoms. Glucosamine and chondroitin used in combination can help with pain reduction, and MSM (methylsulfonylmethane) delivers much needed sulfur to joint cartilage. By the way, cabbage, broccoli, and Brussel sprouts are among the richest foods that contain sulfur, so you should try to eat them as often as you can.

So your best bet is to concentrate on nutrient-rich foods, especially plant-derived, as they deliver protective polyphenols, carotenoids, and other natural antioxidants. As an added bonus, these foods are low in calories.

Also, keep your consumption of sweets to a minimum and avoid high fructose corn syrup (HFCS) like the plague. This ubiquitous and unhealthy sweetener literally eats your joints away. You can, however, have fruits, even though they contain fructose, because they also provide plenty of fiber. In fact, cherries, apples, pomegranates, and grapes are especially effective at reducing inflammation.

And this might really surprise you: make a special effort to avoid NSAIDs (non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs) such as Advil or Aleve, to name a few. They reduce series 2 eiconsanoids, which are pro-inflammatory compounds produced by the body. But the problem is that NSAIDs also inhibit other natural eicosanoids that are necessary to heal the connective tissue of joints. Studies on animals have documented this little-known but very important piece of the arthritis puzzle.The bottom line is that while these drugs reduce pain, they actually accelerate the arthritic joint degradation.

And last but not least, make sure you practice gentle exercises at least four to five times a week. As the late Dr. Salter, who originated the revolutionary concept of continuous passive motion (CPM) to heal damaged joints and endorser of the Osteoporosis Reversal Program has said: “Joints were meant to move”.

Wishing you a speedy improvement,

Question & Answer #2

What do you know about the Irish red algae / moss and calcium?

-Dori

Dear Dori,

Lithothamnium are species of red algae belonging to the family of coralline algae, Corallinaceae. It is harvested off the Northern Atlantic coast, including Ireland and Iceland. It was discovered in the 19th century and has the ability to concentrate the rich variety of nutrients found in the ocean. Red algae contain loads of bone healthy nutrients and have outstanding bioavailability.

Stay curious!

Question & Answer #3

I took Actonel for five years and now have a femur fracture which I have been trying to heal for almost a year. The doctor then wanted me to take Boniva which I have refused. I read where calcium supplement can be a detriment to other health issues. How can I get this fracture healed as I am following all your bone building advice? Walking causes pain.

-Greta

Dear Greta,

I'm so sorry that you are suffering from a fracture that may have been caused by the bisphosphonates you took for five years. It looks as though your doctor is not up to par with the latest news on femur fractures linked to the very same drugs he/she is prescribing. Fortunately, as a Save Our Bones community member, you are up-to-date and refused further treatment with a different brand (but basically with the same “active” ingredient) that could do further damage. It is no secret that long-term bisphosphonate therapy has been linked to femur fractures. If you want to read more about this, check out my article on Atelvia titled “Atelvia: My Review”.

You surely followed up on the fracture treatment with an orthopedist, and by now the actual fracture has healed. In other words, the bones have re-connected, but you are still experiencing discomfort and pain when you walk, as you write.

If you haven't yet, I recommend you check with a physical therapist. It is possible that the pain you are experiencing is due to muscle tightness around the femur. Stretching exercises might help get rid of this, and leg strengthening exercises are a good idea as well. But don't try this on your own. Make sure you consult with a health professional before you start any exercise program.

In good health,

Question & Answer #4

Dear Vivian, I have been taking Zantac for at least 15 years because of acid reflux caused by hiatal hernia. I know it is bad for your bones, but I have no choice, as I do not want to run the risk of damaging my esophagus. I try to follow your bone density program as best as I can, but I cannot eat some of the foods you recommend because of intestinal problems. I also take at least 600 mg of calcium a day. Will what I am doing, along with some exercise help to keep my bones healthy, as I already have osteoporosis in my lower spine and hip?

-Debbie

Dear Debbie,

The beauty of following a nutritional, lifestyle, and exercise plan such as the Osteoporosis Reversal Program to increase bone density is that it offers a wide variety of choices. So don't get stressed if some foods don't agree with you. There are plenty to choose from!

In reference to your acid reflux due to a hiatal hernia, I wonder if you have ever tried stopping the Zantac. This drug is an H2 receptor antagonist which blocks the action of histamine in the stomach, thus decreasing digestive acid production. As I write in the Osteoporosis Reversal Program, adequate levels of stomach acid are necessary to properly absorb both micronutrients – such as crucial minerals and vitamins, and macro nutrients, especially proteins.

Many followers of the Osteoporosis Reversal Program (including myself) were able to gradually – and successfully – wean themselves off the acid reducing drugs. But make sure you consult with your doctor first.

To your bone health!

Question & Answer #5

Why is yogurt okay? It is a dairy product made from milk which is taboo if one is to follow a dairy free diet.

-Carol

Dear Carol,

Excellent question! First of all, while I don't encourage the consumption of dairy products (and particularly milk), they can be easily incorporated as acidifying foods in the Osteoporosis Reversal Program. That is why it is so easy to follow the program; no food is “taboo”.

But while yogurt is a dairy product, it is exceptional in that it is alkalizing and a concentrated source of live probiotic cultures, which help support a healthy digestive system and boost the immune system. This applies also to all fermented dairy products, such as kefir and sour cream. But stay away from sweetened yogurt, since sugar is acidifying. Instead, get the plain unflavored kind and add your favorite fresh fruits, almonds, or seeds with a little honey or stevia.

Additionally, yogurt does not cause problems to those who are lactose intolerant because the live organisms produce lactase, the enzyme necessary to break down lactose. And last but not least, plain yogurt is a good source of minerals, such as potassium, iodine, calcium, phosphorus, and zinc. Vitamins B12, B2, and B5 are also found in yogurt.

Enjoy!

Question & Answer #6

Dear Vivian,

I would be very interested to know if you have looked into the use of Pure Maca Powder for strengthening bone density for those with osteoporosis or osteoportic patients.
Elaine Hollingsworth, has written a book “Take control of your health and escape the sickness industry’. She is Director of Hippocrates Health Centre of Australia. She has done much research into the use of Maca for the above health problem.
I look forward to your reply.
I do have your book.

-Norma

Dear Norma,

Maca powder is a dehydrated, cruciferous root vegetable, also known as Lipidium peruvianum or meyenii, and it is rich in calcium, magnesium, iron and silica. As implied by its name (peruvianum), it is an ancient Peruvian food with medicinal properties.

Maca root has a known effect on steroid hormones like testosterone, progesterone, and estrogen, and on the adrenal glands. And some side effects have been reported, especially if taken for longer periods. For example, there are some who suffer from an upset stomach, increased heart rate, heartburn, mood swings, hot flashes, and headaches.

Stay natural,

Question & Answer #7

Thanks Vivian for developing this easy to follow and wonderful program and for keeping with us with your useful tips. I am following your program, and coming from Middle Eastern descent, I find it pretty much compatible with my diet. However, I cannot cut on consuming pita bread. I know that bread is acidic because of the flour, but I stopped the rice and pasta, except the bread. Can you tell me if I exceed my 20% allowance is that very detrimental to the osteopenia I have? Thanks.

-Moushira

Dear Moushira,

As I answered Carol about yogurt, there is no need to completely eliminate ANY food when you follow the Osteoporosis Reversal Program. So you can most certainly eat rice and pasta; just make sure it's in the approximate proper balance with the alkalizing foods. Notice that I write “approximate”, because it doesn't have to be exact. The Osteoporosis Reversal Program is really flexible, and even if you'd have a meal at 70/30 balance or with a lower alkaline value, you'd still be way ahead of the game in comparison to the Standard American Diet (S.A.D.).

In fact, I wrote an article about the S.A.D. and bone health. If you haven't yet, I urge you to read it. It's titled “How to Keep Your Bones Happy: Stay Away from the S.A.D.”

So when you eat pita bread, try to get it made with whole wheat flour, and if you exceed the acid/alkaline balance by a lot, make sure you have a 100% alkalizing snack a little later. Here are some delicious ideas: almonds, celery sticks, carrots, or any alkalizing fruit of your choice.

So go ahead and enjoy your meals.

Question & Answer #8

My mom who is 85 years old took Forteo for 2 years. She is finished with Forteo, but her doctor wants her to continue with another osteoporosis drug so the benefits she acquired with Forteo are not lost. The difference from when she started taking Forteo and when she finished taking the drug on her bone scans were hardly any improvement,but not worse.Her doctor said that would not necessarily show up on the bone density scans. He said that her bones just got harder. My question is, What is your opinion about taking another Osteoporosis drug at this time?

-Tracy

Dear Tracy,

Your mother's doctor might want to bite his tongue, because bones that get harder break more easily. It's common sense! And he confirms that Forteo (teriparatide) is a mysterious drug. As I write in an article titled “The Forteo Mystery: What You Should Know About This Puzzling Drug”, even its makers recognize that they don't understand how this drug works.

If you haven't yet, I urge you to download the free Natural Bone-Building Handbook, so you can read all about the drugs and how your mother can increase her bone density without them. And if you and your mother decide against taking more drugs, she can get the Osteoporosis Reversal Program, that will guide her every step of the way.

To your mother's bone health!

Question & Answer #9

I have osteoporosis and took Fosamax for about 3 years. I began getting major leg cramps and joint pain. I almost has a frozen shoulder and had to do therapy for several weeks. I began reading up on Fosamax and along with my doctor's agreement, I stopped taking it. It has been two years. My cramps and shoulder pain went away. I am taking 1200 mg of calcium daily along with a multivitamin and vitamin D. Recently I had a fracture in my knee and have AVN in that area. My doctor had me redo my bone density test. It showed I had lost 7 % bone since my last test 2 years earlier. She wants me to go back on medication, Actonel. I don’t want to but fear more fractures if I don’t. What should I do?

-Carol

Dear Carol,

I understand how you feel. The weight of having to make a decision and the fear of more fractures is a burden. But it is not as difficult as it seems. If you look back at the side effects you experienced while taking Fosamax, the question whether the same thing will happen when you take Actonel begs asking. Because both drugs are small variations of each other; after all, they are bisphosphonates.

It sounds as though you should to search for osteoporosis solutions elsewhere, outside of the band-aid approach and short-sighted scope of prescription drugs. What should you do? I can't decide for you, but I can tell you that knowledge is power, and that you can increase your bone density without taking the risk of having unpleasant side effects.

So here's my suggestion: download the Natural Bone-Building Handbook. It opens the door to a whole new world of natural osteoporosis solutions. And should you decide against taking more drugs and would like step-by-step guidance to increase your bone density, then you can consider the Osteoporosis Reversal Program.

To your bone density increase!

Question & Answer #10

Green tea has so many healthful benefits that I would like to be enjoying. Do you know of a brand that is free of fluoride so we can drink it without worrying about its effects on our bones?
Thanks for all your good info.

-Dodie

Dear Dodie,

As I write in the Osteoporosis Reversal Program, polyphenols are known to play an important role in bone health. And green tea is among the richest source of these powerful antioxidants. The problem is that, as you correctly write, tea leaves in general accumulate more fluoride than any other edible plant, and green tea ranks among the first.

But it's a shame to have to give up the health benefits of green tea, so I looked for a solution, and found one: organic green tea extract. It is free of toxic pesticides, fluoride, and other synthetic chemicals. Plus it's a super-concentrated source of bone healthy polyphenols. Just a few drops in one cup of water is equivalent to more than 10 cups of regular green tea.

This is the one I use:

Chi Tea Ultimate Green Tea Liquid Extract

It also has Goji Berry extract and astralagus, and it is naturally sweetened with an herbal extract. I try to drink one to two cups a day.

To your health!

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. Salli

    Thank you so much for all the info! Is Stevia okay as a sweetener in my recipes instead of sugar or honey? My sweet tooth thanks you for your time and consideration. Best to all!

  2. DIANNE

    I use honey whenever I need sweetener whether it be in coffee ( I mainly drink green tea )or any desert I desire to make. The honey in Coles etc is boiled so much all the good is gone, so I buy it of the honeybee. I don’t no if you can buy organic honey as I don’t no where the bees have been but it comes straight out of the hive to me. Bobbie

  3. DIANNE

    I just saw some questions about soy milk and yoghurt and was amazed at how many people still drink it. My mate drinks it and says she knows it no good for her. I don’t comment to her as she is like me. She’s fit, good figure,and has no problems except for headaches and dry skin. She drinks a heap of diet coke and guzzles soya milk like it’s going out of fashion.I myself used to drink soya milk because the adds looked so tempting on t.v and not just a glass here and there. I drank it like I drink water now. I drink warm water to keep it the same temp as my insides and if I accassionally have a vodka, I just have it on the ice and sip it. My mate asked me how I keep my skin good because I don’t have age spots and don’t have freckles etc.I told her I don’t drink rubbish, I brush my skin every night and use 100% coconut oil on my skin an only cook with that as well and because I only juice my vege I only cook chicken or fish and if I eat red meat, I eat it raw.I’m not saying what I do will work for all concerned but if you have tried everything to be rid of pain etc,just try a couple of things differently an see how you go.

  4. DIANNE

    I started taking VITAMIN C captules long ago and stopped taking them long ago, they didn’t work, and started growing my own veges out back, so I could get all my vitamins naturally. Vitamin D is the same. If you lack vit D save your money, take a trip to some place where the sun shines all day and get your vit D naturally. I know I won’t always be a builders labourer but I will always stay busy.I don’t get headaches, stomache cramps,back aches, etc etc because I no longer take perscription tabs. Oh yes, many years ago I did and I still do the bad things I shouldn’t, e.g.smoking rolly tobacco, drinking wine not to access but I shouldn’t even do it a little bit. My friends that sit at home watching DAYS OF OUR LIVES, eating chocolate biscuits, pizza thick with cheese, Mc donalds, chips etc etc are shocked at me for smoking because they don’t smoke and they usually can’t get to work because they are so sick. I’m not saying smoking is good for you, far from it, in fact I will give it up very soon as I did before but when I have a wine it’s nice to have 1 or 2 and if I feel like a cig I go for a walk or ride my bike. There’s no need to take patches, do it cold turkey as I did and will again. Take care Bobbie

  5. DIANNE

    I have just found out about this m s m sulphur which is meant to be great for all parts of the body including skin etc. Apparently it’s been around a long time but I just heard about it. Does anyone know about this product. Thanx Bobbie

  6. Rosemary Lambert

    Sometimes I’d like to print out one of your questions and answers on a page, but end up printing many pages just to get that one answer printed out to send to a relative who doesn’t have a computer. This person is on medication for bone loss, and has become interested in your comments about negative effects of the osteoporosis drugs but isn’t totally won over. I live to far away to show them your book.
    I’ll bet that are other folks who would like to print out portions of a page for those who don’t have a computer. Isn’t there a way you could fix it so we could check a box by the ones we wish to print? I see some stores allow us to print only the coupons we want by checking a box next to them, thus saving our ink.
    You could also have a small ad about your program on each print out which they could respond to by mail.

    • DIANNE

      Some years ago I was going to the gym and believed I ripped a muscle in my groin.I had 3 ultrasounds and was told that, Yes, I did have ripped muscles but more than 1 and was told to see the orthopaedic surgeon so I could have an M R I to see them better. The surgeon told me, ” Oh don’t worry about it,it’s just arthritus an at our age we all get it”. I know I have arthritus, I know the difference between arthritus an ripped muscle.I’m 58 yrs old,walk 17kms a day, ride my bike 10ks a day and work as a builders labourer. I shook the surgeons hand, said thanx and left. I never went back but started taking borax. Just lick tip of your finger, dip in borax and lick it of. Morning and night.I was shocked because it’s cheap and it’s a cleaning product but also found that the queen takes it also. Since taking this product not only has it fixed my problem but any arthritus I had is gone. Arthritus is cruel I know but start exercise, walk, bike,even a km a day an build up. Since I saw the surgeon, I have been sent reviews to go see him as he believed I would need a new hip the following year.It’s almost 3 yrs since I saw him and occassionally I get a twinge of the scar tissue from the rip in my groin but that’s all.I also take lugols and would have died I think many times without these products. If u don’t want to trust in these products and want to get better, leave ya car at home, invest in a push bike or walk. I will never believe in surgeons again, at least not fully. Gone is the nice old dr who would visit your home when you were sick, now all you get is BS drugs that kill.I don’t take them, ever. Good luck Bobbie

  7. Susan

    Anyone else gluten-free? What substitutes can be used in the recipes that won’t be too acid? My usual fall-back is rice flour, but maybe another grain flour would be better. The commercial GF products are high glycemic, probably too acidic (and expensive!)

  8. Muggie

    Hi Vivian

    I have been reading a lot about proteolytic enzymes which appear to be beneficial all round. I have degeneration of the hip joints and now problems with my lower back with pain down the legs. What is your opinion?

  9. Mary Welland

    Hello Vivian
    This is not what you are discussing above but for some reason my Mac will not send when I press ‘reply’ on the e-mails you send me so I hope you receive this. Below is a comment I found on a website about ‘edible’ clays and I would be interested to have you comments:-
    “Last but not least, Terramin, famous for the research conducted on the mineral by NASA. And YES, we have verified that it IS true that daily supplementation with calcium bentonite in fact CAN REVERSE osteoporosis.”

  10. Maria

    Hi, Vivian!

    I love green tea and was very glad to see your Chi Tea recommendation. I stopped drinking green tea when I started the Save Our Bones program, after reading your thoughts on the devastating effects of flouride and the high levels found in green tea.

    Could you please let us know how the Chi Tea fits into the 80% percent alkaline, 20% acid ideal balance that is the basis for your program?

    I see that the dose for the Chi Tea is 30 drops, which the company says is the equivalent of 12-15 cups of standard green tea. It’s my understanding that tea is highly acidifying. How much alkalizing food would offset a cup of this tea?

    I’ve been careful about adhering to the 80-20 ratio, and would not want to accidentally eat or drink something that I believe is healthy if it puts me in an acid state without realizing it.

    I really appreciate your recommendations on specific products and your shared recipes (I’m hooked on your tahini!).

    Thank you,

    Maria

  11. ALICE HUSA

    I just received an E-mail from a Dr. Nan Fuchs,
    and among other things she says that STRONTIUM
    is more effective for building healthy bones than calcium and Vitamin D combined. Can you
    comment on this? Thank you.

  12. Derryl Palmer

    Vivian, thank you for all the helpful information. I have heard/read that fruits and vegetables/meat should not be consumed in the same meal because of digestion problems. Please end my confusion on this question. Thanks.

  13. Sandra Shepard

    I am very grateful for the info I get and get answers through other peoples questions….I would like to warn people to be aware of too much Calcium in their blood….I have had numerous tests run, put on a non dairy diet, limited Vitamin D….the odd part is that I felt much better before all this started, my eating habits are now more cravings than healthy food….my GP and Endocrinologist want me to take Boniva…of course, I refused…I am concerned about Vitamin D being added to so many foods without due care and concern…this too much calcium in blood can affect your Para-Thyroid and your heart….or so I am told…so please be careful….most people can’t afford full blood panels…

  14. Heather

    Vivian, I can’t get your book here in Australia. I just returned from the USA and couldn’t buy it there. Would you please send me a copy and I’ll post over the money. Thanks.

  15. Sue Crawford

    Very good and informative article.
    Thank you,
    Sue

  16. Rita

    I am confused is AlgaeCal a good calcium product to be taking or not?

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Hi Rita,

      AlgaeCal is a fine product, as long as you take it without the Strontium Boost.

      • Denise

        Hi Vivian,

        I thought you said the Strontium was not to be taken with the AlgeaCal.

        Hmmm….

        Denise

        • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

          Sorry Denise, that was a typo! I meant to say WITHOUT the Strontium Boost. Thanks for bringing that to my attention — I’ve corrected the comment.

  17. gino

    All questions and comments are great and to the point!G KEEP UP THE NEEDED WORK & GOD SAVE AMERICA!!!!

  18. Diane Shannon

    I had been on Actonel for 6 years, bone density decreased as I aged. now am off of it a looking for an alternative… Dr. recommends Reclast intravenous… found it could have bad site affects as well.. looking inot bio identicals. what do you think about bio identicals as bone building therapy along with diet and exercise. Whick I have done for many years… walking, danacing Curves. confused as to what to do????

  19. Patricia Adams

    Dear Vivian, Thanks for all the free advice on bone health. I have been diagnosed with osteoporosis and now osteoarthritis. The pain is unbearable sometimes. Which pain relievers would you recommend, since you said that most of the painkillers on the market aggravate the problem more. I look forward for your reply because I need some pain relief. Thank You, Patricia

    • Andrea Moore

      I have been dealing with osterarthritis in my left hip joint for 30 years which was receintly diagnosed as severe. Basically, there are no safe pain meds for the pain. Your best option is to do daily stretches and exercises and to stay active and keep your weight down. Force yourself to continue to tie your own shoe laces and other daily tasks. Most importantly, set aside some time EACH day for an enjoyable activity. I know how bad the pain is. Possibly hip replacement surgery , or other, can solve your problem. You need to talk with your Dr.
      Best wishes,
      Andrea

  20. taly segal

    hello Vivian, Do you have some information about Osteoporosis of Pregnancy? thank you

  21. Irma

    Dear Vivian:
    Thank you for all those answers; very helpfull.
    Where do you buy the Ultimate Green Tea Liquid Extract “CHI TEA”?

  22. pauline landsman

    I am currently taking Clonazapan for RLS I knoe it isnt good but what else can I take Also I have a daughter in much pain with Erlers_Danlos syndrome I expect this is not in your scope but thought Id ask as U know So much I have your book and thankU for all your tireless work Pauline

  23. pauline landsman

    I have RLS for which I( take Clonazapan which is NOT good but what else can I take Also I have a daughter with much pain who has Erlers_Danlos syndrome I know this is not likely in your scope but thought Id ask and see!!? thank you for all ypou do Pauline

  24. Sonia R.

    What your thoughts on Vitamin K2 or MK2? I read where it is good for building strong bones in conjunction with calcium and Vitamin D.

  25. Maria Pylnyk

    Dear Vivian,

    I have been diagnosed with Polymyalgia Rheumatica and Osteoporosis early last year. My Rheumatologist prescribed 15mg Prednisolone which has been tappered to 5mg and I had a relapse with no pain the only diagnostic report was that my ESR level increased to 95 and now on 7 1/2mg. Could youn please give me your professional advice in a alternative natural cure. I have heard that Rosehip Vital and following your Save Our Bone Program is the way to go. Please advise.

    Thank you you for your valued tine and Professional advice.

  26. Georgina Renaux

    Thank you very much vivian for all the trouble you take to get this info to us. thank you again.

  27. LESLIE

    Hi! Vivian,

    How Do You Help Someone Save Their Bones; That Don’t Think They Can Be Saved?
    And Again I Thank You VERY MUCH For ALL YOU DO!

    LOVE, MS L.

  28. Evanir Garcia

    Vivian, I follow your bone building diet, but unfortunately because of acquiring a rare auto immune disease, Churg Strauss Syndrome, if I would not be taking steroids I would be dead. Every organ starts to fail because of the high Eosinophils.Then I can’t eat a morsel neither drink a sip of water. Very serious.
    After 3 years or prednisone, I got severe osteoporosis and now I am on Forteo(OUCH!), which is really scary, but what else can I do? I already eat 2 lbs of raw greens a day, plus other cooked vegetables, like broccoli, cabbge, lots of kale,homemade yogurt,and no grains at the moment, just sprouted beans and nuts. Even though I try to walk daily and lift some weights, some days I just don’t have enough breath to do anything. Is there any hope for me? You are the only person I trust. Thank you so much Vivian! Evanir

    • Evanir

      Vivian, I forgot to say that I also take AlgaeCal Plus and a few other very good supplements. Churg Strauss also gives symptoms of severe asthma, that’s why I can’t exercise as much as I would like to. I am 66 years old and never took any medicines until 62.
      Thank you so much if you can give me some advice.

  29. Claire Goldenberg

    Vivian,

    What do you think of Soy Yogurt?

  30. Tina

    I have been using an organic green tea in the individual packets. Is this type of tea O.K. to use? I am assuming that it is flouride free since it is organic. Tina

    • Diana

      I’m 61 and have been having lower back problems on and off for many years. Recently I asked my Doc. to please get a better look at my back so I was given and xray and they finally discovered an old fracture and a slight scoliosis. Wow; and then finally a bone scan that showed the beginnings of osteoporosis. and a prescription for fozamax followed. I’ve taken 2 weeks worth, 1 a week. Then my sister sent me the Vivian link and I read the handbook and have ordered the book. I’ve been feeling less energetic and not myself. I am hopful and will discontinue the fozamax.

  31. Rosa

    I had acid reflux for a couple of years and was told by my doctor to use prilosec. Everytime I stopped, my acid reflux came back. One day I was watching the Doctors on tv and heard that calcium could also cause acid reflux. I stopped taking calcium and no more acid reflux. I do eat my brocoli and drink almond milk.

  32. mary o mahony

    my doctor wants me to try H.R.T. AS I REFUSED FOSOMAX, CAN YOU ADVICE PLEASE ?

  33. Audrey Cooper

    Thank you for the program.
    It would be even more wonderful (and thorough) if it included recipes for bone-building meals.

  34. Elaine Schaeffer

    ty i am going to try the green tea you recommended above. Some of the green tea i have tried do not agree with or my sister in law.

  35. Isabella

    I’m not very good about giving up my sweets but have made a true effort, it is very difficult since I have had low bllod sugar all my life until starting on herbs which brings me to my comment. Ginger and peppermint work wonders for heartburn. In fact ginger cures peptic ulcers. If people seek the information out they will realize that GOD has given many herbs to cure our illness’s with out using BAD drugs. I found a great book:Herbs for Health and Healing by Kathi Keville which you can buy at Amazon for a few dollars and worth EVERY penny. I sure do appreciate all the information you make available. Thank you

  36. Joan Maybee

    I get confused on the percentages. Would it be possible to share a few more meal plans? For instance potatoes: 1 cup equals % of unalkalized; 1/4 nuts = what. If you could do that for a couple of meals, I would appreciate it. Thank you.

  37. Marcia Noxon

    Have you heard about nitroglycerin cream to strengthen bones?

  38. Julie Bailey

    Hi Vivian, I have osteopenea in my spine + spinal stenosis, osteoarthritis in my knees, high BP & cholesteral. My sister, 10yrs older has no problems and had been taking HRT for 10+ yrs which her Dr. said has protected her. Should I start taking it?

  39. Maureen Dibble

    I was diagnosed with osteoporosis 2 years ago. I refuse to take the osteo drugs. I have been trying to follow your diet and exercise program. I was taking Advacal Ultra 1000 but recently switched to Vitamin Code Raw Calcium. My vitamin D level is 37. My endocrinologist told me to consume 1800 mg daily of calcium (food sources & supplement combined). I recently had a 24 hour urine calcium test done and it showed that I am excreting a LOT of calcium (481 score). She wants to put me on a diuretic HCTZ to control the calcium loss. Should I take the diuretic? I wonder if I’m just ingesting too much calcium, hence excreting the excess. I don’t want to take another med if I don’t have to. However I have heard that thiazides can possibly increase bone density. Any thoughts?

  40. Jeanine DeGriselles

    Could you please tell me about organic blue agave syrup and xylitol? Are they a better sweetener or still very high in acidity?

  41. Sari Swig

    Hi Vivian,
    I am currently working on a cookbook for the alkaline diet and thought I would share a recipe with you.
    Spelt Pasta,
    2 cups spelt flour, sifted twice
    1/2 teaspoon salt
    2 eggs, 2 egg whites
    Two tablespoons of olive oil.
    Mix together, You will have to knead the dough or you can make it in a mixer. Form the dough into a ball.
    Let it rest for at least 30 minutes.
    Either with a rolling pin or a pasta maker, make long sheets of the dough. Cut into noodles and put into boiling water for about 6 minutes. Enjoy with a a pile of fresh vegetables on top for your 70/30 diet.
    Enjoy

    • aurelia

      i have osteo …i really don’t know what to do about ….i ask myself how did i got and if ever will go away :(….i don’t want to start to use fosamax …what the best remedy to get my bones back ???…

      • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

        Hi Aurelia,

        The Osteoporosis Reversal Program is a great alternative to osteoporosis drugs. I designed the program when I learned how dangerous and ineffective the drugs are.

  42. Cathy

    Can you please tell me if the product AlgaeCal Plus (you can find them on line) is a good calcium supplement. If not can you plase tell me one that is? Iam tired of searching for
    the right one o use. I hear so many good and
    bad supplememnt out there. I am very confused
    at this point. In your Save your Bones book
    you mention organic calcium. Can you give me
    a good brand name to use.
    Thank you.

    Confused Cathy from Illinois!!!!

    • Isabella

      Cathy….I also use AlgaeCal plus. I’m almost sure Vivian agrees with this supplement.
      She mentions it in her Question and Answer #2.

      • Cathy

        Thanks Isabella. Is it working for you?
        Have you gotten a bone scan since you have started taking it verses before you started.

  43. Su Vason

    Hi Vivian,

    Two questions:

    1. In the column above, you say Advil and Aleve are counteractive. Then what is the alternative pain killer that is safe?

    2. My Doctor of Naturapathy goes by blood type diet and insists that I eat red meat, avoid yogurt and milk, etc. I have been arguing with her that I have been a vegetarian all my life and red meat is hard to digest and my body will go into shock! And, my bp has been creeping up as I am under tremendous stress.

    I do my yoga and therapy exercises everyday without fail as also meditation, guided imagery, etc.

    And still have so much problem. Ugh!!

    Could you comment on the blood type diet please?

    Enjoy your newsletters.

    Many thanks.

    • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

      Hi Su,

      Pain is an uncomfortable feeling that tells you something may be wrong in your body. Pain killers basically fool the brain. I’m not saying that this is wrong, but when it comes to arthritis, pain killers are most certainly not the long-term solution. Some natural substances may help with pain, such as fresh ginger, turmeric, and evening primrose oil. Please check with your doctor before you take any of these.

      And even though I haven’t extensively researched the blood type diet, so far I am not convinced that it is based on valid information.

      Here’s an excellent link that gives sources and explains why: https://www.vegsource.com/articles/blood_hype.htm

  44. Colleen Matthews

    Hi, Vivian: my bone density was very bad three years ago, but against my doctor’s advice, I stopped taking Fosamax. With Vit. D3 (3000) per day and a healthy diet, it has shown that my bone density has significantly improved! I have actually reversed some of the loss after stopping the Fosamax. Both my doctor and I were surprised and very happy!
    Thanks for your good advise.
    Colleen

    • Sue

      Colleen,

      How long were you on Fosomax? I took myself off of it after 7 years and have to wait another year for a bone density test to see if my density is improving as yours is. No more drugs for me! Hope I will get good results, too.
      Sue

  45. M. Jackson

    Hi – thanks again for book and column.
    Can you please set up the questions so that your readers and customers can do a SEARCH for their answers?

    • Brigitte

      I agree with Jackson. It is really difficult to find one’s answer among all these posts.
      Also a forum could be good idea.
      Brigitte

  46. Sylvia

    Vivian, I am so glad you added this comment section w/o Facebook or any other link. I do not use Facebook only rarely… I want to take this opportunity to thank you for the ‘Osteoporosis Reversal Program’. It is Super and so are you! I admire you more and more; each time I read anything from you, I am in awe of your love, your care, your knowledge and your dedication to your work and us.
    Thank you from my heart, sa

  47. Hazel McBrine

    Hi Vivian,I was prescribed Etidronate & after several months I found your book; by then I had hives & my left knee was so bad I could hardly walk up & down stairs.I went off the drugs & bought an Omega juicer. I try to use lots of organic greens, veggies & fruit. I’m trying to follow the 80/20 diet.
    I had to quit taking Vitamin D3 because I continued to have hives; after doing some research I discovered Vitamin D3 is made from the oil of sheep. I am extremely allergic to lanolin. I found one made from herbs by MegaFood. I have been taking Red Mineral Algae made by NOW. I’m concerned that this may not be the best. Where can I buy AlgaeCal? (I live in B.C. Canada)
    Where can I buy supplements with Vitamin D3 that is not made from lanolin? I drink organic White tea; I assume it contains flouride too. Our water has no flouride added & we filter it as well.
    I suffer from Multiple Chemical Sensitivities.
    I’ll be watching for your answers.
    Thanks for all the help!

    • eva

      Hazel, I also live in B.C., you can find these in any health food store like Nature’s Fare, etc.:
      New Chapter Bone Strength with AlgaeCal, Vit K2, Vit D3, etc.
      Vitamin Code Raw Calcium with Marine Algae, vit K2, vit D3, etc.
      Enerex which has clacium and magnesium from amino acid chelate, vit D3, etc.
      I hope this will be of some help to you.

  48. Judy

    How can I find this article The Forteo Mystery: What You Should Know About This Puzzling Drug”,

    I am trying to gather all the info I can on these drugs and your site is
    wonderful. I have your Save our Bones program and it is very informative.

    Thank you,
    Judy

  49. Ethel Greenawalt

    Have you heard of Sara Meeks and her book Walking Tall? In it she gives examples of exercises that are safe for anyone with osteoporosis.

    I would like to learn your opinion of that book.

  50. Carlal Peltonen

    For acid reflux, my husband has been on two tablets of DGL–Deglycerized Licorice–(get in any vitamin section or health food store)before meals for years now. It has completely “cured” him. Everyone should know about this. You must get the kind that is chewed, as it needs to be mixed with saliva to work. Not the capsules.

  51. Şule Walton

    Hi Vivian,

    I thought, even whole wheat bread was not good if not soaked in water over night for the Phytic acid to come out. Could you please tell me if I can eat whole wheat one slice per day without worrying or I must make my own bread with soaked grains? And I love cheese as much as I tried I just can not give up on eating (50 gr) per day for my breakfast. I found organic cheese but it is not made from raw milk unfortunately. Must I not eat cheese even it is a little piece? I am a tea drinker (only black tea) 2-3 cups per day. Organic tea has no taste. I drink English breakfast tea (granule) I come from Middle East and Black tea our national drink. Can you help please? I am reading a lot of your comments and I am very happy even though I have not bought yet your book, do I have the right to ask? Thanks a lot for your help.

    Şule

  52. Kathy

    Could you please give me a brand name calcuim that you use? Also do you use a basic multi vitamin supplement? It is overwhelming trying to figure it out. I am 53 yrs. old. Thank you

    • Jean Kehn

      Name of calcium to use??

      • Nicole

        Hi Vivian – I understand honey is an all around good food with no side effects. If you agree please tell us witch one is best. I was told to get only local honey. Some think clover honey is best while other advise buckwheat instead. What do you think? I want to take this opportunity to thank you for all your hard work and sharing your knowledge with us all – Nicole

        • Vivian Goldschmidt, MA

          Hi Nicole,

          All honey is fine, but organic is preferable, and try to find honey that’s been processed as little as possible. 🙂

  53. Kathy

    Do you recommend a certain brand name of calcuim as a supplement? Also what is a good multi vitamin? I am 53 yrs. old and I do a lot of traveling and can’t carry a lot with me. Is there any other basic nutritonal products that is helpful? Thank you!! It is just overwhelming at the store.

    • RaeThomas

      What brand of calcium supplement is best and where could I buy the Green Tea extract

  54. Michelle Myers

    I have 2 questions:
    -I have noted that soda drinks are bad, especially dark ones-does this hold true for soda water, as I often like to have soda and lime with my meals as a drink. (I guess it’s acidic!)

    -Also, are you familiar with a new exercise machine with vibration technology? One make is t-zonevibration.com. These are being advertised as able to build bone-prevent and reduce osteoporosis. Can you comment as to if this is true?

  55. Helen Herring

    I have just heard about and researched Vitamin K2 (menaquinone) which has a different effect on the body than Vitamin K1 which is a coagulant. K2 stays in the body longer and scours Calcium etc from the arteries and muscles and puts them back into blood and bone. It should help rebuild bone quicker and also keep the arteries clear of the build up so is good for heart health as well. Some research is also saying it could be good for joints atc as well.

  56. john D'Angelo

    Hi Vivian, thanks for another great article. John.

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.