The Best Supplements For Bone Healing

One of the most common and potentially debilitating bone injuries are fractures. Fractures, states the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons, may be caused by direct trauma to your skeleton; overuse injuries, which are common among athletes; and osteoporosis, a condition associated with reduced bone mineral density. Nutritional supplements may be effective in promoting bone healing, although you should always review the immediate and long-term health implications of supplements with your doctor first.

Fractures

Fractures, or broken bones, are common musculoskeletal injuries. According to the National Health Service of the United Kingdom, about 50 percent of women and 20 percent of men will suffer a fracture after 50 years of age. There are numerous fracture types, including hairline, transverse, oblique, spiral, longitudinal, comminuted, greenstick, avulsion, compression, impacted, pathological and stress fractures. The National Health Service notes that the time it takes for your broken bone to heal largely depends on the type of fracture you experienced.

Effective Supplements

Nutritional supplements have long been used to encourage bone healing. In her book "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," certified nutritional consultant Phyllis A. Balch reports that boron, calcium, magnesium, potassium, kelp, proteolytic enzymes, silica, vitamin C with bioflavonoids, vitamin D, zinc, free-form amino acids, octacosonal, folic acid, boswellia and turmeric paste used in a poultice may all help promote bone healing. Further scientific testing may be necessary to better understand the effectiveness and mechanisms of action of some of these supplements.

Supplement in Focus

Boron is a mineral that may be useful in bone healing. Boron, notes Balch, is extremely important for bone health and healing. She also notes that some studies show that boron may help increase your calcium uptake by about 30 percent. Boron may help prevent postmenopausal osteoporosis, increase your muscle mass and enhance your brain function. Boron is required by your body to metabolize calcium, phosphorus and magnesium. Although most people are not deficient in this mineral, certain people -- especially seniors -- may benefit from boron supplements.

Disclaimer

Bone injuries should always be treated by a qualified health care professional. Your doctor can counsel you on the various treatment options available for your particular problem. Before using dietary supplements or other natural treatment methods, always discuss proper dosage, treatment duration and possible side effects with your primary care provider. A health care professional with extensive training in clinical nutrition can tell you what dietary supplements may be best for your condition and what supplements you should avoid.