Sandra Denton, M.D.

Often my patients are shocked to learn that they have Osteoporosis because they have been taking a “ton” of calcium supplements for years. Contrary to popular belief, populations consuming the greatest amount of milk also have the highest Osteoporosis rate. One study found that calcium supplementation to postmenopausal women (2000mg/day for 2 years) did not significantly reduce bone loss! How can that be?

Most of us know someone in our family who has suffered the devastation that accompanies Osteoporosis. And it seems to be getting worse, not better. Worldwide, the lifetime risk for a woman is 30-40%, according to the International Osteoporosis Foundation. In the next 50 years, the number of fractures for both men (yes, men get Osteoporosis too) and women will more than double. So what is the answer? Prevention.

Not all calcium supplements are the same.

First of all, the form that the calcium is in does make a difference. Of all the forms of calcium available on the market today, my personal favorite is a plant-based concentrate from seaweed. Calcium from seaweed sources are popular in Asian and European markets where consumers already know the health benefits of seaweed, which contains a variety of other minerals as well. One recent study, done by the University of Minnesota, proved the bioavailability of calcium from seaweed to be superior.

Another study gathered evidence over a 13-year period and showed the enhanced bone mineral density effects of calcium from seaweed on hip and particularly lumbar region. There is even evidence suggesting that it can relieve pain and improve mobility in osteoarthritic joints.

Secondly, bone is more than a collection of calcium crystals. Bone is an active, living tissue that is constantly remodeling itself through building up (formation) and tearing down (resorbing) activity. Like any other living tissue, bone has diverse nutritional needs. Ignoring those needs could have a negative impact on the strength and integrity of bone tissue. The American diet is extremely deficient in all of these nutrients that are so vital to bone health.

Magnesium is often forgotten in Osteoporosis research. Calcium alone cannot be utilized and deposited into bone without magnesium. Alkaline phosphatase, an enzyme involved in new calcium crystals, is activated by magnesium. Conversion of vitamin D into its biologically active form requires magnesium. The ratio of calcium to magnesium is also important, and many feel that 3:2 and 1:1 is ideal.

Vitamin D3 increases calcium absorption and inhibits bone resorption. Isoflavones from soybean concentrate also inhibit bone resorption and stimulate bone formation. Vitamin D and isoflavones together appear better at preventing bone loss than either agent alone.

Vitamin D with calcium has been shown to reduce fractures even when bone density may remain unchanged (NEJM, 1997; 337).

Boron plays an important role in bone health by reducing urinary calcium excretion by as much as 44% and seems to be important in vitamin D metabolism. Zinc is essential for normal bone formation and enhances the biochemical actions of vitamin D. Low levels of zinc have been found in those who have accelerated bone loss of the mandible (jaw bone). Deficiencies of Copper lead to reduced bone mineral content and reduced bone strength. Studies show that copper supplementation may inhibit bone resorption and also strengthen connective tissue. Manganese is required for bone mineralization and for synthesis of connective tissue in cartilage and bone. Manganese stimulates the production in bones of a group of protein-like molecules, which provide a structure upon which calcification can take place.

The importance of folic acid, vitamin B6, and vitamin B12 seems to come from their ability to block the conversion of methionine to homocysteine (a potentially toxic substance) in the body. Individuals with high homocysteine levels in the blood develop Osteoporosis at an early age and have a higher risk of developing Alzheimers and heart disease.

In my opinion, one should take a balanced calcium/magnesium blend at bedtime because the calming aspects of the minerals may result in a better night’s sleep. In addition, there is less competition for absorption from other nutritional supplements.

Who should take it? Anyone interested in being pro-active in preventing and, yes, even reversing Osteoporosis. I believe even teenagers can benefit by ensuring strong bones for their very active lifestyles and avoiding problems later on in life. I would also expect a speedier healing time for fractures and other injuries as well as improved pH balance in the body.