How Much Magnesium & Calcium To Reverse Severe Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis is a growing global health problem, second only to cardiovascular disease, according to the World Health Organization. Individuals with osteoporosis have fragile bone tissue that is vulnerable to fractures. But, bone is living tissue and has a remarkable natural ability to rebuild itself, provided the necessary nutrients and other factors are present in ample amounts. Magnesium and calcium are two important nutrients that contribute to strong, healthy bones.

Osteoporosis

The word osteoporosis literally means "porous bones." Among the factors contributing to osteoporosis are inadequate nutrition, failure to reach peak bone mass before the age of 20, and being physically inactive, according to the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention. There are no overt symptoms of osteoporosis, and many individuals do not know they have the disease until they sustain a fracture. Of the many nutrients that help build and sustain healthy bones, Calcium, Vitamin D, magnesium and phosphorus are predominant.

Magnesium

Magnesium ranks fourth in abundance in the human body, with about 50 percent of it concentrated in bone. About 1 percent of it is found and blood, and the remainder is found in cells and vital organs. Magnesium performs more than 300 metabolic functions in the body, according to the National Institutes of Health, Office of Dietary Supplements. The recommended supplemental dose for men is around 420 mg per day, and around 320 mg for women.

Calcium

Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the human body, with 99 percent of it located in bone, according to the Linus Pauling Institute. In addition to its role in bone health, calcium plays a vital role in heart function, muscle contraction and the nervous system. When available dietary calcium is too low, your body draws on skeletal reserves of calcium to maintain normal blood levels. The National Academy of Science recommends 1,000 mg of calcium daily for adults.

Other Factors

While getting ample dietary amounts of calcium and magnesium is important, other factors come into play for building strong bones. Vitamin D is critical to the absorption of calcium. Without vitamin D, calcium alone will not significantly increase bone mineral density. Your body makes vitamin D naturally when your bare skin is exposed to sunlight. You can also get it from foods fortified with vitamin D and from supplements. Weight-bearing exercise is also essential for stimulating the growth of new bone tissue.