Osteoporosis is a disease that causes the bones in the body to weaken and become brittle. This drastically increases the risk of break or fracture.

Bone is not just made of calcium, it is a living tissue. It is consistently regenerating itself, shedding old cells and building new ones. Collagen plays a big role in how sturdy bone is constructed. When collagen and calcium are lacking, the bone becomes weak.

Brittling of bones is a worldwide health issue that comes with aging. 1 in 3 women and 1 of 5 men ages 50 and older may at some point in their lifetime experience a bone break due to osteoporosis. In the USA low bone mass affects more than half the population 55 and up.

Causes of bone weakening include Adrenal Fatigue, Medication use, a metabolism imbalance, Copper deficiency,  Hyperparathyroidism, Eating Disorders, Vegan Diets, Smoking, Excessive Alcohol use, a small bone frame, and family genetics.

How do you know if you have Osteoporosis?

A bone density test can be given, but without symptoms, you really don't have much of a reason to have it done other than curiosity perhaps if a parent suffered with it.

Things you may notice on your own include: Back pain (which can be caused by a fractured or collapsed vertebra), loss of height as you get older,  a stooped forward lean in your formerly straight posture, and even breaking a bone without a super hard fall or impact.

While there are numerous drugs on the market created to increase bone density, they all come with a wide range of possible side effects. The best choice is to consider your bone health while you are still young and be proactive. Let us offer up some natural help for increasing bone strength.

Nutrition - Eat a diet of fresh vegetables, fruits, and grass-fed meats. Avoid white flours, refined sugars, and processed foods. The soil much of our food is grown in these days is depleted of minerals. Supplementing may be necessary. The best way to determine what you are missing is with Nutritional Response Testing. Magnesium, Calcium, Vitamin D3, Vitamin K2 and Strontium all have shown benefits to bone strength.

Strengthen Bones with Exercise - Strength training builds bone as well as muscle. So keep doing cardio, but make sure to pick up some weights as well. Consult a personal trainer if you need a little direction to get started.

Zap Stress - Chronic stress can not only spoil your attitude it can wreak havoc on your health. Be good to yourself, rest, nap, treat yourself occasionally, do things that make you feel joyful and relaxed.

Essential Oils - Cypress and Helichrysum applied topically to areas can help with bone repair and healing.

If you are interested in learning more or scheduling an appointment, give us a call today at the office of Dr. Gary Gendron, Chiropractor Bonita Springs | Nutritionist Bonita Springs. 239-947-1177 or visit www.chiropractorbonitasprings.com.