[Villages PL]

Originally Posted by maureenod

Osteo drugs increase bone mass slightly but weaken it. The drug companies have know this for many years but still advertised. It is all about money.

I can vouch for the above statement. Several years ago I read a good book on Osteoporosis and the author stated that increasing bone mass doesn't necessarily mean you will have stronger bones. (I'll try to find that book title.)

I take vitamin K2. The bones are made up of several minerals, no just calcium. Calcium can cause hardening of the arteries hence dementia or worse. You need to have a balance of all minerals, not just calcium.

That's interesting. I don't believe in taking calcium supplements. I try to eat lots of dark green leafy vegetables to get my calcium. That means I get calcium and K1, plus many other nutrients and fiber. Never thought about K2; I'll have to do some research to find out how much I need. Perhaps I should get tested for it?

[Barefoot]

Originally Posted by gerryann

Thanks for asking Barefoot. No decision yet.....too many other health issues going on at the moment. I have been seeing a lot of dr's lately and they all say I really need to start. I take the calcium, D, K2 and am also on the estrogen which helps bones. I have osteoporosis in part of the hips and osteopenia in other parts. I can't scan my spine due to too much hardware. As village PL mentioned, I do eat a lot of acidic foods...tomato and cucumbers every day for sure. I'm still researching and not convinced yet that I want to add another nasty med into my already messed up self.

I moved here 1 1/2 years ago in pretty good health......I've been going down hill ever since.....one thing after another. I've met more dr's, nurses and spent more hours in medical office waiting rooms than I did in my whole life.

I've sent you a PM.

[Villages PL]

Originally Posted by Barefoot

What is the time and date of the next Meeting at Laurel Manor? It sounds like a great source of information. I take Fosamax monthly, but I'm not sure it's a good idea.

The meeting was this Monday morning at 9:30 but it was a Christmas party where they got together for coffee and snacks etc.....(all the foods that are bad for your bones).

[Villages PL]

A good book on Osteoporosis: The Myth of Osteoporosis by Sanson

The updated edition: May, 2011

$29.00

[Barefoot]

Originally Posted by Villages PL

A good book on Osteoporosis: The Myth of Osteoporosis by Sanson
The updated edition: May, 2011
$29.00

Here is a link to a review of the book ... very interesting reading.

Amazon.com: Kate McMurry's review of The Myth of Osteoporosis

[Villages PL]

Originally Posted by Barefoot

Here is a link to a review of the book ... very interesting reading.

Amazon.com: Kate McMurry's review of The Myth of Osteoporosis

Yeah, good review.

[mmckeogh]

I was glad to see all the info and input here. I have read a lot about osteoporosis and came to the same decision as many here: no drugs, more exercise, supplements, proper diet. However, I did come across a supplement called Lactoferrin, no side effects. Does anyone have any add'l info on this supplement to prevent bone loss and promote new bone?

[gerryann]

Originally Posted by mmckeogh

I was glad to see all the info and input here. I have read a lot about osteoporosis and came to the same decision as many here: no drugs, more exercise, supplements, proper diet. However, I did come across a supplement called Lactoferrin, no side effects. Does anyone have any add'l info on this supplement to prevent bone loss and promote new bone?

I've been researching on line and reading reviews for lactoferrin. It sounds very interesting for possible bone growth. It also appears to be a great supplement for auto immune issues that I have. I ordered it today. I've been taking the K2 as well.....also calcium, mag, D, and HRT. I won't know for 2 years if it helps with the osteoporosis, but I will know if it helps with other issues. I also will know if it is easily tolerable.(I don't do well with drugs).......I'll keep you posted.

[kaydee]

I have not been following all along regarding the many posts but now reading about lactoferrin caught my attention. I'm not familiar with this but plan to do some research as I too have some immune deficiency issues.

[gerryann]

Originally Posted by kaydee

I have not been following all along regarding the many posts but now reading about lactoferrin caught my attention. I'm not familiar with this but plan to do some research as I too have some immune deficiency issues.

Be sure to read the Amazon reviews for the Jarrow brand. Some people have posted interesting comments.

[pahutz]

An alternative to drugs is the Bone Builders exercise class. It has worked to reduce osteoporosis and osteopenia for many here in The Villages.

[ilovetv]

Originally Posted by Barefoot

Here is a link to a review of the book ... very interesting reading.

Amazon.com: Kate McMurry's review of The Myth of Osteoporosis

Because the Canadian Task Force on Osteonecrosis of the Jaw's research clearly contradicts the last paragraph of Kate McMurry's book review linked above, I'm putting this link to task force's findings:

...Conclusions:
Bisphosphonate-associated osteonecrosis of the jaw is an important condition seen most commonly in oncology patients receiving high-dose intravenous bisphosphonates.

Low-dose bisphosphonates given either orally or intravenously in osteoporosis patients have not been causally linked to the development of osteonecrosis of the jaw....

The Canadian Task Force on Osteonecrosis of the Jaw Report:
Bisphosphonate-associated osteonecrosis of the jaw

[BarryRX]

As a retired pharmacist, I promised myself that I wouldn't get involved in these discussions anymore. But there has been so much misinformation presented here that I feel I must jump in. The drugs being discussed are bisphosphonates. Post menopausal women treated with bisphosphonates show normalization of bone turnover, significant increase in bone mineral density of the spine, hip, wrist, and total body, and significant reduction in risk of fractures. In fact, double blind controlled studies of bisphosphonates resulted in a 50% reduction of fractures of the spine! hip! and wrist as compared to the control group that took placebo plus calcium.
As with all drugs, there are possible side effects, including severe irritation or worse of the esophagus, and the aforementioned necrosis of the jaw. Your doctor measures those risks against the benefits when he prescribes the drug. You must educate yourself and make your own decision, but to listen to medical advice from an internet bulletin board like TOTV is just crazy, and that probably includes listening to advice from an old pharmacist like me. For those recommending that dietary changes can cure this or that this is all some type of secret conspiracy by Big Pharma, I suggest you spend a half decade or more studying up on osteoclast mediated bone resorption, normal bone turnover, and the mineralization of newly formed bone. Your local pharmacist is probably the most accessible health professional in your life. Please ask them your questions, they will be happy to help you.

[graciegirl]

Originally Posted by barryrx

as a retired pharmacist, i promised myself that i wouldn't get involved in these discussions anymore. But there has been so much misinformation presented here that i feel i must jump in. The drugs being discussed are bisphosphonates. Post menopausal women treated with bisphosphonates show normalization of bone turnover, significant increase in bone mineral density of the spine, hip, wrist, and total body, and significant reduction in risk of fractures. In fact, double blind controlled studies of bisphosphonates resulted in a 50% reduction of fractures of the spine! Hip! And wrist as compared to the control group that took placebo plus calcium.
As with all drugs, there are possible side effects, including severe irritation or worse of the esophagus, and the aforementioned necrosis of the jaw. Your doctor measures those risks against the benefits when he prescribes the drug. You must educate yourself and make your own decision, but to listen to medical advice from an internet bulletin board like totv is just crazy, and that probably includes listening to advice from an old pharmacist like me. For those recommending that dietary changes can cure this or that this is all some type of secret conspiracy by big pharma, i suggest you spend a half decade or more studying up on osteoclast mediated bone resorption, normal bone turnover, and the mineralization of newly formed bone. Your local pharmacist is probably the most accessible health professional in your life. Please ask them your questions, they will be happy to help you.

Thank you Barry!

[ilovetv]

Originally Posted by barryrx

as a retired pharmacist, i promised myself that i wouldn't get involved in these discussions anymore. But there has been so much misinformation presented here that i feel i must jump in. The drugs being discussed are bisphosphonates. Post menopausal women treated with bisphosphonates show normalization of bone turnover, significant increase in bone mineral density of the spine, hip, wrist, and total body, and significant reduction in risk of fractures. In fact, double blind controlled studies of bisphosphonates resulted in a 50% reduction of fractures of the spine! Hip! And wrist as compared to the control group that took placebo plus calcium.
As with all drugs, there are possible side effects, including severe irritation or worse of the esophagus, and the aforementioned necrosis of the jaw. your doctor measures those risks against the benefits when he prescribes the drug. You must educate yourself and make your own decision, but to listen to medical advice from an internet bulletin board like totv is just crazy, and that probably includes listening to advice from an old pharmacist like me. For those recommending that dietary changes can cure this or that this is all some type of secret conspiracy by big pharma, i suggest you spend a half decade or more studying up on osteoclast mediated bone resorption, normal bone turnover, and the mineralization of newly formed bone. Your local pharmacist is probably the most accessible health professional in your life. Please ask them your questions, they will be happy to help you.

thank you!!