In my recent blogs, I discussed how bone density drugs can do more harm than good as well as lifestyle choices that are essential for bone health and supplements that can help prevent and reverse osteoporosis.

Instead of turning to hormone replacement therapy (HRT) right away:

Use Herbal and Other Natural Alternatives to HRT

Panax Ginseng is another source of naturally occurring estrogen (estriol). Not only does ginseng help control hot flashes, it may be a very valuable adjunct to the prevention and treatment of osteoporosis. Another natural way of getting estrogen is to use a black cohosh extract.

Vitex (chasteberry) is a very safe herb that can be supplemented to simulate what progesterone does naturally in the body.

Maca, a Peruvian herb, can be used to boost the body’s own DHEA levels.

Velvet Elk Antler is one of the most effective herbs to help enhance testosterone.

Natural Hormones Are for More Severe Osteoporosis

The vast majority of people who suffer from osteoporosis can reverse the disease and all its symptoms using a weight bearing exercise program, a healthier diet and the natural supplements just discussed.

For cases that do not respond to this approach either due to the presence of other diseases, the use of various drugs, or a very poor digestive system, consider using:

• a natural transdermal progesterone cream

• estriol

• adrenal hormones, especially DHEA and testosterone

The use of these hormones is controversial, so my advice here would be to discuss the pros and cons with your doctor. There is an excellent discussion of the use of these hormones in Dr. Alan Gaby’s book Preventing and Reversing Osteoporosis as well as Dr. John Lee’s What Your Doctor May Not Tell You About Menopause.

Conclusion

Women all have different needs for these nutrients in order to prevent or treat osteoporosis. It depends on your unique biochemical make-up and your activity and stress levels. For more detailed information on complementary medical therapies for osteoporosis reversal, see a natural health care practitioner.

Whatever you do about the condition, do not use bisphosphonates (bone density drugs). Not only will these drugs fail to deliver what they promise, but they may also damage your health beyond repair.

REFERENCES

ADRAC. Bisphosphonates and ocular inflammation. Aust Adv Drug Reactions Bull 2004;23(2). www.tga.gov.au/adr/aadrb/aadr0404.htm#3

Fraunfelder FW, Fraunfelder FT. Bisphosphonates and ocular inflammation. N Engl J Med. 2003 Mar 20;348(12):1187-8.

For additional references, see my blog, Say NO to Bone Density–Boosting Drugs.

Dr. Zoltan Rona