We adults have 206 bones in our bodies. Our bones form the framework for our bodies and are critically important to our health and well-being. Bones are alive as anyone who has broken one knows only too well. They bleed, produce pain, and are able to repair just as any other living part of your body. They also need proper nutrition in order to function properly. Osteoporosis literally means porous bones and is reaching epidemic proportions in our country, despite the fact that we pop calcium supplements like candy and over-consume dairy products. If you think drugs like Boniva and Actonel are the answer. Think again.
The latest research published in the New England Journal of Medicine shows that drugs like Fosamax are associated with an increased risk of esophageal cancer and osteonecrosis (bone death). These medications are widely used to treat osteoporosis or osteopenia. Studies performed in the US, Europe and Japan on these types of drugs (Actonel, Boniva, and Didronel) are shown to increase this type of cancer, as well as bone destruction. Surprisingly (?) the pharmaceutical company that manufactures them does not believe that this type of risk exists, but there are multiple independent studies through excellent research facilities that confirm this.
While both men and women suffer from osteoporosis, it occurs more dramatically
in women (at least 1.2 million American women over age 45 suffer bone
fractures each year.) Keeping bones and joints healthy is critical to overall health. It all
begins in childhood. One of the most important things you can do to help your children
grow strong, healthy bones is to eliminate excess phosphorous from their diets. Are you
surprised? Did you think I would suggest making them drink more milk? The best and
most important thing you can do is eliminate carbonated soft drinks from their (and
your!) diet. Excess phosphorous keeps your body from absorbing calcium, counteracts
any calcium you get through supplements or food and causes bones to become brittle and
weak. Besides sodas, processed foods, caffeine, excessive consumption of protein and
sugar all work against your bones absorbing the necessary calcium they require. A diet
high in sodium also increases the amount of calcium excreted in the urine. One way to
combat the problem is by increasing potassium intake from food or supplements. Eating lots
vegetables is an excellent way to get plenty of potassium and to stay alkaline as well.
Of course, there is more to bone health than calcium, sodium and potassium: heredity,
lack of exercise, hormone levels and inadequate vitamins D and K can also weaken
bones.
Keeping your body in as alkaline state as possible is also key. That, as well, is
accomplished with a balanced diet, stress management and adequate hydration. Getting
back to the basics is always the key.
