Osteoporosis - How to get your bones back (Opinion)

Osteoporosis, which means porous bones, is the result of bone loss below normal levels. This loss can lead to weak, fragile bones that fracture easily. Typical treatment by conventional methods is to prescribe Actonel, Fosamax or other pharmaceutical drugs which can have serious side effects. Just a few are crumbling of the teeth and jaw bone, high blood pressure and muscle pain. These risks are too high especially when there are alternative methods available.

Osteoporosis was thought originally to only affect elderly people, but we now know this is untrue. Bone density can start to deteriorate in the late twenties. Although this disease afflicts mainly post menopausal women it is found in men as well especially once they hit 60-70 years of age.

One of the most promising new supplements for bones is Lactoferrin ("lacto" means milk; "ferrin" means iron). Lactoferrin or LE is a protein that is present in colostrum, breast milk, saliva, tears and other bodily fluids. It`s a vital immune booster for infants and is also a digestive aid providing important prebiotics to the digestive track. It inhibits viruses, fungi and parasites and most recently is known to have an effect on osteoporosis.

Studies are showing that Lactoferrin not only helps to prevent osteoporosis, but also assists in promoting the strengthening of bones and their growth. It appears LE aids in the growth and activity of osteoblasts, which are the cells that build bones. It also shows LE can reduce the rate of bone loss by 50-70 percent by prohibiting osteoclasts, which are the cells that get rid of old bone tissue. The osteoblasts and osteoclasts need to be in balance. If the osteoclasts are getting rid of old bone faster than the body can build new bone, osteoporosis or osteopenia will begin. So in essence the LE stops the damaging cells and stimulates the growth of new cells all at the same time.

Although LE is supplied from cow`s milk, studies show that individuals who have milk allergies or are lactose intolerant are able to take it without a problem. Even pregnant women and children over four can take this supplement. Lactoferrin has no known side effects. As with any supplement do your research to find a proven and non GMO brand.

In addition to LE, Vitamin D3 is essential for calcium absorption; K2 helps in metabolizing calcium; and Magnesium balances the calcium in our bodies. Boron is just beginning to be understood. Research is showing that this trace mineral may help activate Vitamin D to aid in absorption of calcium. Silica keeps calcium from developing in areas it should not be, like arterial walls, and assists with bone collagen. Silica is proving to be more important than calcium in some studies. There appears to be an arsenal of supplements to help prevent bone loss and aid in new growth. As always prevention is the best route to take, but if you`re already facing this debilitating disease there are alternative roads to keep you strong.