The Eye-Opening Truth about Osteoporosis Prevention and Calcium
TLDR
- Osteoporosis arises due to calcium deficiency and has many misconceptions surrounding its causes and treatment.
- Calcium is vital for various functions in the body, but insufficient intake can lead to the body taking calcium from the bones.
- Understanding calcium’s role in the body and debunking misconceptions can lead to effective solutions for maintaining bone health.
Osteoporosis poses a significant risk to many people as they age. This condition is characterized by a loss of bone density and strength. While commonly thought to result from calcium deficiency, osteoporosis is surrounded by many misconceptions. These include myths about the role of calcium and the effectiveness of pharmaceutical interventions for bone health.
This article will clarify some of these misconceptions by delving into the intricacies of calcium’s functions in the body. It will also present an alternative approach to maintaining bone integrity through proper nutrition and lifestyle habits.
The Importance of Calcium
Calcium plays a crucial role in the body, accounting for 2% of total body weight. Over 99% of calcium is stored in bones and teeth as hydroxyapatite compounds. The remaining 1% circulates in the bloodstream, aiding vital processes like muscle contractions, blood clotting, blood pressure regulation, and heartbeat rhythm.
To perform these critical functions, the body needs a constant supply of calcium. If inadequate calcium is consumed through diet, the body will extract what it needs from the bones. Over time, this can lead to osteoporosis as the structural integrity of the skeleton is compromised.
Questioning Pharmaceutical Solutions
While pharmaceutical companies promote drug therapies for osteoporosis, some misconceptions need to be addressed. Contrary to popular belief, direct calcium intake does not cause kidney stones or arteriosclerosis. In fact, excess calcium deposits in the kidneys and arteries can actually result from the body’s attempts to manage osteoporosis.
Additionally, bisphosphonates, a common class of osteoporosis medications, may not effectively strengthen bones or reduce fracture risks as claimed. In some cases, they may contribute to more bone fractures due to increased bone size without improved density.
The Influence of pH Balance
Maintaining proper pH balance is crucial for calcium levels. The body’s pH is normally slightly alkaline at 7.4. However, an acidic diet from food choices can disrupt this balance. To counter excess acidity, the body will draw calcium stores from the bones, further contributing to osteoporosis development.
Consuming more alkaline foods and reducing acidic ones can help preserve calcium levels and skeletal integrity.
" You don't really want to be taking all kinds of high dose calcium. You don't really want to be taking a calcium carbonate, which is a shaving of a rock. You just don't want to popping all types of calcium without balancing it with the other cofactors to absorb it."
Nutrients That Drive Calcium into the Bones
The Role of Vitamin K2
Vitamin K2 plays a crucial role in directing calcium to the bones and away from the arteries. It can be found in some red meats and is vital for promoting bone health. However, it’s essential to be aware that certain medications, such as statins, can lower K2 levels in the body, which can lead to issues like arteriosclerosis.
The Importance of Magnesium
Magnesium is another essential factor in driving calcium into the bones. Ideally, a 1:1 ratio of magnesium and calcium should be maintained for optimal absorption. Magnesium is a vital nutrient for various bodily functions, and its role in calcium absorption should not be overlooked.
Impact of Medications on Calcium Absorption
Certain medications can negatively impact calcium absorption in the body. For example, statin medications, which are commonly prescribed for lowering cholesterol, can decrease vitamin K2 levels.
Additionally, acid reflux medications, like proton pump inhibitors, can interfere with calcium absorption due to their action on stomach acid. It’s essential to be aware of these potential side effects to make informed decisions about managing bone health.
Weight Bearing Exercises for Bone Health
Weight bearing exercises play an essential role in improving and maintaining bone health. These exercises apply force on the bones, stimulating the growth of new bone cells and increasing bone density. A consistent and well-rounded exercise routine incorporating weight bearing exercises can help prevent bone loss and reduce the risk of osteoporosis.
When it comes to performing weight bearing exercises, there are several options available. Some of these exercises include:
- Walking: A simple, low-impact exercise that helps increase bone strength, especially in the legs and hips.
- Jogging: Increases bone density in the spine and lower body, but consult a physician if there are concerns of joint or heart health.
- Resistance Training: Exercises using bodyweight, resistance bands, or free weights can strengthen bones through tension and compression.
- Dancing: Engaging in dance routines provides overall body strengthening and improves coordination, balance, and flexibility.
- Jumping: Activities like jumping jacks, skipping rope, and box jumps incorporate vertical motion and high-impact force, helping to improve bone density.
It is crucial to combine weight bearing exercises with a balanced diet, which includes essential nutrients like calcium, magnesium, and vitamin K2. It is also important to avoid excessive consumption of acidic foods, commonly found in processed diets, to prevent weakening of the bones.
Keep in mind that not all exercises are suitable for everyone. Always consult with a healthcare professional beforehand to ensure the chosen activities are appropriate for individual needs and limitations. This will help to optimize bone health in a safe and effective manner.
Conclusion
Osteoporosis is the result of calcium deficiency, not excessive calcium intake. Pharmaceutical solutions have limitations. Maintaining alkaline pH levels and taking bone-supporting nutrients can help drive calcium into bones. Weight bearing exercise is also beneficial. With the right approach, osteoporosis risks can be reduced.
In summary, osteoporosis is a condition resulting in the loss of bone strength, affecting many people as they age. There are some myths surrounding calcium and bone health, such as the belief that calcium intake leads to kidney stones or arteriosclerosis. In fact, these misconceptions are a result of the body’s reactions to a calcium deficiency, where it has to acquire calcium from the bones in order to maintain other essential bodily functions.
An acidic diet containing processed foods can contribute to the development of osteoporosis. However, merely consuming calcium won’t be enough to maintain healthy bones, as it is crucial to deliver calcium into the bone matrix. There are essential nutrients that aid this process, such as Vitamin K2 and magnesium.
A dietary supplement, like EverGreen Bone Doctor 200 caps, can help to provide these nutrients and has been made using the most bioavailable forms of calcium and K2. This promotes healthier bone structure and counters the negative effects of low calcium intake
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FAQ
What does calcium do in our bodies?
Calcium is vital for many body functions such as muscle movements, blood clotting, regulating blood pressure, and keeping our heartbeat steady.
How does not having enough calcium lead to osteoporosis?
When our bodies lack calcium, they take it from our bones to do other important jobs. Over time, this can weaken our bones and lead to osteoporosis.
Do pharmaceuticals really work for osteoporosis?
Medicines like bisphosphonates may not always make bones stronger or reduce the risk of fractures as much as we think. Sometimes, they can even increase the chances of bone fractures.
Why is it important to keep the body's pH balance right for bone health?
Keeping the body’s pH balanced is crucial because if we eat too many acidic foods, our bodies may take calcium from our bones to fix the balance. This can make osteoporosis worse.
What are some exercises that can make bones stronger?
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