One in five American women over the age of 50 has osteoporosis, according to the National Library of Medicine. Osteoporosis, meaning "porous bone," is a condition where the bones become weak due to too much bone being broken down, not enough new bone being formed, or both. Fractures, back and neck pain and stooped posture can all result from osteoporosis, and the complications involved with this condition make treating and avoiding it a priority. Natural herbs supplements are valuable in both preventing and treating osteoporosis.
Types
The major supplements involved in preventing and treating osteoporosis, and contributing to strong bones, are vitamin D and calcium. The National Library of Medicine recommends a daily intake of 1,200 milligrams of calcium, and 800 to 1,000 international units of vitamin D. This can be obtained through supplements as well as through a diet that contains foods rich in these nutrients. The University of Maryland Medical Center (UMMC) also suggests including adequate amounts of magnesium, potassium and vitamin K to help strengthen your bones. The effect of herbs on osteoporosis has not been studied as thoroughly, however the UMMC lists several herbs that are commonly used such as black cohosh, licorice, red clover and wild yam.
Function
Along with many other important roles in the body, such as proper nerve and muscle function and blood clotting, calcium also helps prevent the development of osteoporosis, according to the National Osteoporosis Foundation. The Foundation states that the body requires vitamin D to absorb calcium from the food we eat. Without vitamin D, the body is forced to take calcium from our bones to supply vital organs such as the heart with calcium. The University of Maryland Medical Center says that herbs used for osteoporosis tend to have estrogen-like qualities; estrogen stimulates bone growth.
Sources
The National Institute of Arthritis and Musculoskeletal and Skin Diseases recommends including lots of low-fat dairy products in your diet to receive an adequate amount of calcium. Additionally, dark green, leafy vegetables such as broccoli or Swiss chard contain calcium. Vitamin D is found in egg yolks, saltwater fish and liver. Because these two nutrients are vital to life, many foods such as orange juice or breakfast cereals have been fortified with them.
Expert Insight
Although herbs and supplements are invaluable in treating osteoporosis, it's necessary to make other healthy lifestyle choices to support the effect they will have. This includes no smoking and limited, if any, alcohol intake, according to the National Library of Medicine. Also, weight-bearing exercise is vital to building and supporting healthy bones.
Considerations
Because these supplements can interact with medications you may be taking, it's important to tell your health care provider about any additional treatments you may be using. Also, regular bone density testing can help you and your doctor detect and treat early stages of bone loss. The National Library of Medicine recommends testing every one to two years.
