Osteoporosis
Christopher Hobbs:
“Bone loss after menopause, due to reduced levels of blood estrogens, inactivity, and consumption of sugar and other refined foods. Developing deficiencies of important minerals like calcium, magnesium, and silica, vitamins like vitamin D, and protein can contribute to this condition as we age.”
Etiologic and Contributing Factors:
- Primary Causes:
- Aging: Natural bone density loss occurs with age, especially after menopause in women.
- Hormonal Changes: Reduced estrogen in women and testosterone in men can lead to bone loss.
- Other Contributing Factors:
- Nutritional Deficiencies: Low calcium or vitamin D intake.
- Lifestyle Choices: Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and sedentary behavior.
- Medical Conditions: Thyroid disorders, rheumatoid arthritis, and gastrointestinal diseases that affect nutrient absorption.
- Medications: Long-term use of corticosteroids or anticonvulsants.
- Genetics: Family history of osteoporosis or fractures.
When to Seek Professional Help:
- Symptoms or Risk Factors:
- Frequent fractures or fractures from minor injuries.
- Loss of height or a hunched posture (signs of spinal compression fractures).
- Bone pain or tenderness.
- Family history of osteoporosis.
- Screening:
- Women over 65 or postmenopausal women with risk factors.
- Men over 70 or those with significant risk factors.
- Testing:
- If a bone density test (DEXA scan) shows low bone mass or osteoporosis.
Treatment Plan for Osteoporosis
When to Treat at Home with Herbs:
Herbs can be used as complementary remedies for bone health in mild cases or to prevent further bone loss, but only under the guidance of a professional. Examples include:
- Herbs and Supplements:
- Horsetail (Equisetum arvense): Rich in silica, which supports bone strength.
- Nettle (Urtica dioica): Provides calcium and other minerals.
- Red Clover (Trifolium pratense): Contains isoflavones that may help balance hormones.
- Turmeric (Curcuma longa): Anti-inflammatory properties.
- Calcium and Vitamin D Supplements: To support bone density.
- Home Remedies:
- Incorporate a diet rich in leafy greens, dairy, and fortified foods.
- Engage in weight-bearing exercises like walking or resistance training.
Caution:
- Treating osteoporosis solely at home with herbs is not recommended for severe cases or individuals at high risk of fractures.
- Always consult a healthcare provider to confirm the diagnosis and create a comprehensive treatment plan, which may include medications like bisphosphonates, hormone therapy, or biologics.
Christopher Hobbs:
“Calcium, magnesium supplementation, along with other important nutrients, weight-bearing exercise, and increased intake of dietary phytoestrogens.”
Generated by ChatGPT; edited and supplemented by Dr. Christopher Hobbs PhD
Herbal Remedies for Osteoporosis
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The information given here is designed to help you make informed choices about your health. The information is drawn from numerous sources—both traditional medicine practice, from the clinical experience of many herbalists currently practicing, and supported by decades of scientific research from the author. The research most consulted includes human clinical trials that help to determine the most effective and safe herbs for various needs, the best doses, and types of preparations.
The information offered in this database is not intended as a substitute for any that may have been prescribed by your health practitioner or physician.