Osteoporosis is a condition in which your bone density decreases over time. The National Center for Biotechnology Information states that osteoporosis is the most commonly occurring bone disease, affecting about 20 percent of women in the United States over the age of 50. Dietary supplements have been used for many years in treating or preventing osteoporosis, but you should always discuss the health ramifications of this natural treatment method with your doctor first.
Osteoporosis
If you have osteoporosis, your bones may become weak, which increases your risk for fractures, states the National Health Service of the United Kingdom. Osteoporosis-related fractures most commonly occur in your wrist, hips and vertebrae. Possible causes of osteoporosis include reduced estrogen in women, reduced testosterone in men, prolonged bed rest, chronic rheumatoid arthritis, anorexia nervosa, chronic kidney disease, vitamin D deficiency, hyperparathyroidism -- the overproduction of parathyroid hormone by the parathyroid glands -- and the long-term use of certain prescription medications.
Commonly Used Supplements
There are numerous supplements that are commonly used in treating your osteoporosis, although not all supplements historically used for this problem may have been researched in a laboratory setting. The University of Maryland Medical Center states that the following herbal and non-herbal supplements may be helpful in treating your osteoporosis: vitamins A, B6, B9, B12, D and K, DHEA, DHA, EPA, manganese, magnesium, omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, zinc, wild yam, red clover, calcium, black cohosh, licorice, GLA, soy and potassium. Check with your doctor before using any of these supplements.
A Helpful Supplement
Boron may be one of the most helpful dietary supplements in treating your osteoporosis. Phyllis A. Balch, a certified nutritional consultant, nutrition researcher and author of "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," states that a dosage of 3 mg of boron taken each day may help improve your calcium absorption. MedlinePlus notes that boron, a mineral, is used to help build strong bones and muscles, improve your muscle coordination and treat certain ailments, such as osteoarthritis.
Warning
Possible complications associated with untreated osteoporosis include spinal compression fractures, wrist and hip fractures, disability and decreased ability to walk. If you develop osteoporosis, meet with your family physician to form an individualized treatment plan that may help prevent these health complications. Always exercise great caution when using dietary supplements in treating your osteoporosis. Review the risks and benefits of this natural treatment method with a health-care professional who specializes in clinical nutrition.
References
- National Center for Biotechnology Information: Osteoporosis
- National Health Service: Osteoporosis
- University of Maryland Medical Center: Herbs and Supplements for Osteoporosis
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing"; Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2010
- MedlinePlus: Boron
