2024 UPDATE ON CALCIUM! I'm always doing more and more research to better serve my clients so check this video out if you want to know what I suggest today! th-cam.com/video/3fcbh2TVS5Y/w-d-xo.html
Thank you for this information. When diagnosed with osteo, my doctor said “make sure you get enough calcium.” There was no guidance on how to achieve that. So, like most women, I had to research and then discovered all the things you said - different dosages, different “forms” of the calcium, algae, dairy …. No wonder women get confused and overwhelmed. What you say makes sense about needing the calcium amongst other things as a building block. I’ve never looked for a magic pill or the “one food” that will solve bone loss or bone growth. In relation to calcium the only solid bit of info I got from research is that the body can only absorb so much calcium in one hit so you need to try to have calcium preferably through diet throughout the day. I had hypercalcemia so investigations into that didn’t reveal much for me except don’t take supplements, but my diet is way less than the 1200mg supposedly needed. Cannot tell you how stressful just this one topic is for me. I’ve concluded that if I eat whole foods, Vit D and K, and weight bearing exercise, I’m giving myself a better chance of improving bone quality and general health than by doing nothing. Osteoporosis is a S**T condition and more should be done to PREVENT it than is being done.
I couldn't agree more. In creating calcium recommendations we aim for below 1,200mg as I said. If you can get most of that through diet great. For our patients that hypercalcemia we want to figure out why and then resolve that issue if possible and then supplementation can be used if needed.
You are absolutely correct when saying more should be done to prevent osteoporosis. Those suffering with malabsorption, coeliac disease, bowel issues and other autoimmune conditions which can lead to osteoporosis . For example If patients were screened for Coeliac every 7yrs from birth , after pregnancy or a significant trauma then we might identify those at risk of osteoporosis earlier. Many Coeliacs have had the condition for 20yrs or more without knowing and haven’t had the opportunity to change lifestyle in order to reduce the onset
2 years ago I was diagnosed with severe osteoporosis…….and, of course, Calcium was the no one to do things. Lucky for me my body response was headaches, nausea, diarrharea. When I mentioned this to my GP and specialist, I felt like they didn’t hear me. Impossible they said. So, I did my own research and discovered bit K2 and D3. My last scan few weeks ago showed an improvement of 3% in bone density. I am 67 years old. I also added more, without awareness, foods that contain Calcium…such as sugar snap peas, salmon, green leaf veggies ….etc. To cut the long story short, do your research, don’t buy into lazy doctors advise, be mindful. Funny thing is that when my GP learn about me not getting worse ( each year I should’ve lost 1% bone density according to her) she was not at all interested how I got there.
Interesting, I stopped taking Calcium prescribed by GP as I also felt sick, bloated and gut issues. When I mentioned this I was dismissed. It’s just take a drug and go away. I’m now seeing a Functional Medicine Practitioner and after extensive bloods have a plan to move forward. Interestingly my Calcium levels are fine.
Vitamin K2 [Menaquinone] = EVERYTHING. 👉 It is called Calcium Regulation. Calcium will Never Not go errantly into soft tissue & arteries without K2 which carboxylate 2 proteins we have, just waiting to be activated: 1]. OSTEOCALCIN to lay calcium into the bone matrix. 2] MGla to keep calcium out of soft tissue & arteries.
@@Dr_DougLucas This is definitely of great interest! Wondering if this video is up yet. I was unable to find it, but maybe I missed it. If not, I hope it will come!
Thank you for digging into this. For years settling on what type of calcium to take was so dizzying that I put it off somewhat indefinitely. Then, when I heard calcium supplementation could lay down plaque in the arteries, I truly threw in the towel. Here I am at 66 with osteopenia - and increased bone loss over the last five years. P.S. Crohns disease and several courses of prednisone hasn't helped my situation. I keep my Vitamin D levels optimized but I need a comprehensive plan! I will continue to consume this information and perhaps seek a consultation.
I got osteoporosis do to chemo from breast cancer 25 years ago. Tried evista didn’t work. Used Forteo for 2 years now going to go on Reclast infusion a year. I work out with weights ride my bike 🚴🏻 and walk a lot with weights. Farmers walk. My bone markers are excellent now. I’m 68 I feel 50 . I also ice climb 🧗♀️.
A very thought-provoking video, thank you. Studies that focus on calcium alone aren't really helpful . As you noted, we need additional supplementation in the form of D3, magnesium, boron, MK7, etc. I haven't read any of those studies, but I wonder if they ever take exercise into account. One can fall into the trap of thinking calcium supplementation is a substitute for exercise, when both are necessary.
For sure. The studies I discusses use calcium exclusively as an intervention. A complete program would be great to study but when that is done it's difficult to know the impact of each individual component. Classically studies like this are often then taken out of context and a single intervention touted as the answer to the problem. Hard to get it right...
still confused about calcium. right now am taking Natures plus cal/mag/vitd3/vit k Calcium 1200mg/600mg/25 mcg(1000 iu) with vit k2 100mcg im taking one a day. do eat pretty healthy. 84 years old with osteoporosis and arthritis they are chewables dr. ordered fozamax and so far i will not take it. thank you. Appreciate your information. you seem invested in this cause.
Thank you. We are quite invested in this cause. Regarding your calcium consumption. Our approach with our patients is to calculate through food tracking how much calcium is coming in through diet. Then we work with the patient to come up with our goal number which will be between 800 and 1200 mg. We generally end up closer to 800. The difference between 800 and the amount that is being consumed through diet as what we recommend being consumed through supplementation. Most supplements have way too much calcium.
I really appreciate the critical thinking Dr Doug brings to this subject bc there is SO much information out there. Without medical training it would be impossible to interpret the data.
Too much calcium can cause the body to not absorb other minerals and bones need 12 different minerals. Boron has been shown to be important to reverse or help with osteoporosis and osteopenia. Putting a pinch of Celtic salt, Himalayan salt, or Redmond’s Real salt on your tongue and letting it dissolve and then drinking a sip of water, also helps get the body trace minerals the body and bones needs. So many things affect bone health.
@@candierichard8931 Barbra O’Neill says Celtic has 82 of the 92 minerals needed for the body. Himalayan has around 60-80, and Redmond’s Real Salt has 65+. Celtic is known for its high magnesium levels and has 3 different magnesium’s, and Himalayan is known for its higher potassium content. I switch between all 3 because they all have varying minerals and levels. For me, I feel it is more balanced to go for all 3. Purists feel one should only consume salt from their area. Meaning North Americans should only use Redmond’s, Europeans should only use Celtic, and Asian, Himalayan. Just fyi.
@@candierichard8931 Hello, The mineral composition of mined salt is extremely variable. We are big fans of Celtic Sea Salt for their sourcing and production. Does it contain all the needed minerals for bone growth? Nope, buts it’s darn good. Dr Doug
Thanks for an informative look at calcium. Appreciate your deep dive and summary. I’m 70 and recently diagnosed with osteoporosis. Just started Fosamax. Am reluctant about it. Also on phenobarbital since I was 6, to control epilepsy. That has contributed to my bone loss, according to Dr. I’m continuing to learn. I will check out mire of your videos. Thanks for being on TH-cam so we can get help!
I have friends who have had weird bone fractures of hips and jaws on Fosamax. All drugs in this family are treacherous. They build bone but they don't build strong trustworthy bone.
Be super careful with Fosamax! Check with your dentist. It can cause jaw bone necrosis. Biphosphonates are great to a degree for some. My doc put me on Raloxifene. (I am post menopausal.) This will help if you don't have clotting issues. See what your doc says. I bought a LIV machine to get 30 Hz frequency (suggested by NASA) and 3mm amplitude. Also D3 with K2 mk-7 is super important.
When I was first diagnosed with osteopenia and osteoporosis I was told to take 1200 mg of calcium a day, with no recommendation to include in that number what I ate in my diet. Unfortunately I got calcification in my heart valves because I already ate calcium rich foods. So I'm very skeptical about supplementation and I don't worry about trying to hit 1200 mg total. Once I found out what did UK recommended, I a 700 to 900 mg a day. My numbers have stayed pretty stable because I exercise and lift weights
Thank you for sharing your story! Your approach seems logical to me with likely adequate calcium. Depending on your starting point there are likely more tools you could use to see improvements in your bone health if you are interested.
Great video. I love the expert analysis of these research studies to help understand how they apply to your personal situation. Calcium supplementation seems to be the most confusing. Good information!
Wow, what a knowledgeable video from Dr. Lucas. I was diagnosed with Osteopenia September of 2023 and told to start taking 1200 mg of calcium; but, I've not started yet. Only doing my vitamin C and D supplements and daily exercises to increase my strength. It has been confusing with a lot of different supplements out there and I need to get the right one for my body dynamics. Looking forward to learning more about how I can continue to build my bones. I prefer doing things the natural way as much as possible. I'm also a vegan eater so my proteins come in other forms of food.
Thank you for sharing all of this, I appreciate your support as well. Checkout our free Masterclass if you have not yet. You may enjoy it! You can find more information here --> www.optimalbonehealth.com/build-bone
This confirms what I have been doing -- consuming most calcium from diet & only supplementing 200mg daily at most. Using Cronometer which has been an eye-opener to improve my over nutrition!
Thank you so much for this video. My naturopath was talking about the process and ability to build bone density and took me off calcium supplementation and onto a probiotic that is meant to help with absorption process, while on the other hand my doctors are saying take a supplement for calcium and vit D. I am in my early forties and have started perimenopause early and it looks like low estrogen is my biggest cause of my osteopenia. I am on hrt but I am trying to address nutrition and exercise too. Super confusing around calcium so I appreciate your analysis very much.
I had been taking 1000mg of calcium but when the thrombosis/embolic risks were identified, I lowered that dose to 500mg. Now I have -2.7 in my rotoscolitic spine and my hip isn’t as bad has osteopenia according to Dexa done in a July. I resumed more calcium and adjusted micronutrients of vitamin K2. I have been on adequate D3 supplementation, with serum D3 measured in middle of therapeutic range.
I just recently found your videos. I am 78, diagnosed with osteoporosis when I was in my late 50's, put on Fosamax first, then Actenol. After a few years I was told to stop taking these pills. Nothing about taking calcium. I have kept fairly active, went vegan 15 years ago, eat a very healthy diet...thinking I need to quit gluten though. I have had a few fractures in recent years and now have collapsed vertebrae. Referred to an Endocrinologist who keeps testing my blood and 24 hr. urine tests, and a big increase in Calcium supplements; recommends either Evenity or Prolia injections. These have possible serious side effects including stroke and jaw problems. I had a few small strokes in the past four years and am partially blind as a result. Also had an auto immune problem with my teeth...two had to be removed. I really do not want to take the injections. I really do not know what to do. I am working on more exercise but my pain is pretty bad some days...taking extra strength Tylenol which helps a bit.
Hi Karen, Thank you for sharing your story. You are not alone in this situation! I can't give medical advice through this channel but I can say that there are situations in which the risks of the drugs start to be outweighed by the benefits. I do fear jaw issues in patients on antiresorptive drugs like bisphosphonates and Prolia.
I'm not a dr, but I've read vitamin d3 and k2 (bought mine at Wally world), magnesium, and yes I cheat taking 1,000 calcium from antacid (cheap). Idk if it's working, but I've read it's the thing
Well that’s it for me. Prescribed fosamax, boniva and many others.. just can’t get myself to actually take it. I’m 76 have osteoporosis lower lumbar and I’ve done some research… I shall rather follow the proper diet etc to keep my bones as healthy as possible. One thing I was told … the jaw … hmm . Not good future there with bone . Thank you I’m following…
@@LesleyMowat ...especially post menopausal . Sadly, it's hard to catchup after rapid BMD loss in our early to mid 50's. And finding a doctor to do the correct blood tests to determine proper treatment is the next hurdle.
@@MariaMartinez-researcherLittle known fact is that men produce estrogen as well, just like women produce testosterone. Preventing bone loss does not require large amounts of estrogen. Also, I was shocked to learn that once a woman is post menopausal, she has less estrogen in her body than a man her age! Menopause is a long term female hormone deficiency with health risks! There are great evidence based resources now to help educate about this. Women deserve to know.
I always wonder how one can give a RDA for everyone when people vary in body weight from 100 -250+ lbs? I weigh about 100 and despite my Dr telling me to take the 1200 calcium I always kept it between 700-900 calcium glycinate. I don't eat dairy and I have osteoporosis so I assume I need supplementation. But my osteoporosis is not improving. I also take K2, trace minerals, Vitamin D.
Hi Barbara, I agree that the recommendations don’t make sense on calcium. Out of line with every other country. When a program isn’t working though, we generally will make sure we understand the cause of bone loss and recalibrate the approach.
This was a very helpful video. Thank you. I am currently looking into the Marodyne Low Intensity Vibration machine. There are good recent videos about how this can help bone density without pharmaceuticals. I'd love it if you would look into this and do a video on this type of treatment.
DR. DOUG, Today is 3-25-2024. I said I was confused as to whether or not to take calcium supplements since I was diagnosed with Osteoporosis a week ago. This morning you sent me a reply, asking me to watch this specific video. I just finished watching it. What I clearly got from the video is ( because I am pushing 80 ) : 1. Do NOT take calcium supplements, period, the end, of ANY TYPE. 2. EVEN if wanting to take a supplement of some sort that happens to have a little calcium in forms such as as algae…..DO NOT TAKE IT IN ANY FORM. 3. THEREBY, ANY SUPPLEMENTS I MIGHT….FIND…..IT IN,THROW THE SUPPLEMENT AWAY OR GIVE IT TO A YOUNGER PERSON. Bottom line…..am I hearing you correctly ? YOU may have just saved my life, Dr. Doug . Thank you !❤️
Hi! Thank you for sharing this, It is very difficult for me to give specific recommendations through this platform. I am glad you viewed the video and found it helpful. It would be easier to discuss through our Health Span nation community where you get exclusive access to me and a community of people with similar questions. You can find more information here --> www.drdouglucas.com/healthspan
@@magic.weaver I am not. I AM taking supplements that strengthen my bones, but nothing specifically that says calcium or makes me think calcium. Three weeks ago, because of my lack of depth perception, I fell. It took two men to help me up because of my unsteadiness. I thank Jesus that I did not break any bones.
Thank you for your very informative content. You stated that calcium supplements may be more beneficial to pre-menopausal women and was wondering about males and age/life changing periods and the +/- benefits.
Yes! We go into detail about supplements more in our free masterclass. You can find find further information here --> www.optimalbonehealth.com/build-bone
Great video, thanks! I'll be joining your Masterclass. Question - what about caffeine and it's effect on calcium absorption and/or bone loss? There is soooo much conflicting information out there about this topic and wondering if you have information on this?
Yes! I recommend joining our healthspan nation. We also have a live Q&A at the end of our Bone Foundations masterclass session where I can answer more specific questions like this. Both links are in the video description :)
Recent diagnosis of osteoporosis. My primary suggested Fosamax etc. but I do not want to take them. He then suggested Calcitonin Sal nasal spray. I did agree to start that. I also take Vitamin D 3000. Your opinion?
Thank you for sharing! Checkout our health span nation if you have not yet, you get exclusive access to me and a community of people pursuing health and longevity. These are things that we discuss in there and it allows us to go into detail rather than doing short chats through this platform. You can find more information here --> www.drdouglucas.com/healthspan
I was taking 1200 a day yet because of my gastric bypass surgery I had malabsorption. They then told me to double that but I found out that I took that 1200 all at once but you can only absorb 600 each 4 hours. So now I split it up plus take vitamin d3 an k2.
Dr. Lucas, why nothing said about calcium not good for the arteries? A doctor once told me to not take calcium because of calcification of the arteries. Not sure taking K2MK7 resolves that issue. Can you address that? Thank you.
Hello, Yes, I can. Ectopic calcification (calcium in the arteries) can occur with excess supplementation. The studies are clear that calcium alone increases the risk of stroke and heart attack. Studies that use Ca and Vit D show no increase in these events. Studies on Vit K show reversal of calcification. So, while I haven't seen a study on all three together I think it's safe to say it's a reasonable approach.
@@Dr_DougLucas I have been taking Vit D, VItK, Magnesium for over four years fatithfully. Never have taken calcium supplements. i have plaque in my left descending artery (think that is the one). i have gone from -2.4 in left femoral neck to -3.2 in this four year period. Hmmm Very disheartening.
Very frustrating trying to figure everything out. I have spoken with a nutritionist and even this person doesn't seem to know a lot. It would be helpful for a concise direction and diet suggestions because not everyone can probably do your program. More details on Anti-nutrients and how to prepare foods to eliminate them so can still benefit from them, etc. Maybe an video with you and a dietician that can help offer practical tips and how to get everything you need. i feel like i am sinking. and i have done supplements for years and bone health is worse. i have mentioned that before.
I completely understand your concern and frustration. That's why we do these videos. We have added a group coaching program that can help with these questions! If you'd like to learn more you can schedule a time to chat with my team at the link below. www.optimalbonehealth.com/schedule
Thank you very much. Your information was very helpful. I would encourage you to use fewer images throughout your presentations. The frequency was distracting, and the ones with text weren’t on the screen long enough to read. Thanks!
I am a 73 year old, 6"1", 220 pound male never having been diagnosed with osteoporosis or osteopenia, even though I have never had the DEXA test either. Normal Ca blood levels. I get 220 mgs of Ca with my multivitamin Centrum Senior, and add about 100mgs more with Citracal. Also, 200 mgs of magnesium supplement. I feel all of this is reasonably safe in terms of not too much, and not too little. Any comment?
Thank you for sharing this, unfortunately I cannot provide specific recommendations through this platform, I would need to know a little bit more about you as well. Checkout our health span nation if you have not yet, you get exclusive access to me and a community of people pursuing health and longevity. You can find more information here --> www.drdouglucas.com/healthspan
I've heard that vitamin K2 is crucial for the calcium to get into the bone. I have been taking calcium plu Vitamin D for years and just learned about this, and not from my doctor.
would be interested to hear your opinion on the Wahl Protocol, and how it aligns with a long term goal of optimizing bone health? enjoy listening to your talks, i'm ex healthcare - ER, and in some messed up, way listening makes me miss 'the work thing" - so i get my info fixes when i need them! cheers from Canada, where health care is free and typically either 'bad', or non-existent.
Haha. I guess you get what you pay for? If that were true though we would have amazing care in the US and that seems to also not be true. Anyway, I've reviewed the Wahl's protocol before and agree with all of it EXCEPT that full fat dairy from local and possibly raw sources and well raised eggs are great for bones.
@@Dr_DougLucas "You get what you pay for," isn't always true re: healthcare in Canada or US. And you should know that better than most! Living as a 67yo with profitized Medicare (Dis)Adavantage, I can easily pay through the nose and get all kinds of misdiagnoses, & poor ineffective treatments and STILL! have to be one of over 500,000 Americans filing for medical bankruptcies each & every year! BTW: NO healthcare is free! It's paid out of taxpayer dollars. It's just a more humane way of helping all the ppl it is suppose to. It SHOULD BE a human right in our so-called developed nation.
I've noticed when I take a calcium tablet it causes my lower back and joint pains, I get roughly around 500mg per day from other sources, much more than that I start getting aches and pains
A topic that I would love someone to investigate and provide better information on is breastfeeding and specifically prolonged breastfeeding and temporary (or not) low bone density. Then add in back to back pregnancies and breastfeeding…what to expect? Recovery time? How to promote recovery? Soooooo badly understood by medical professionals!!!!!
I have history of kidney stones. Should I take calcium at all? If i take, what is the best source? I read a study on line that implicated microcrystalline hydroxyapatite shouldn't be taken if you have hx of kidney stones. Would calcium citrate be a better choice? Your thoughts greatly appreciated. As a retired dietitian I absolutely love your channel and information.
Hello, Not generally. We use it as a tool to help determine causes of bone loss but calcium is tightly controlled in blood so, calcium in supplementation and diet should not significantly impact blood calcium levels.
I have osteopenia and osteoporosis. I also had a severe bout with calcium Oxalate kidney stones in 2021. For the kidney stones I’ve been told to get 1200 mg of calcium per day mostly through diet if possible. No more than 500 at a time. This is to ensure I have enough calcium to bind with the Oxalates so I do not form any more stones. I get most of my calcium through dairy and now I keep hearing how bad dairy is. It’s difficult to figure all of this out for sure! I do supplement with calcium citrate if I feel I need a little bit more. That’s the only type of calcium that does not bother my gut as I have issues there as well. I’m 66. Is this something you could work with?
Hi Gayle, Thank you for the detail. Yes, this is something we deal with. The balance of oxalates, calcium and overall diet are part of our foundational pillars. If you'd like to talk with our team use this link. www.optimalbonehealth.com/book
What do you do for exercise? Simple walking, brisk walking is best, can be helpful to anybody. I would take maybe a walking stick if you have any balance problems. I was diagnosed with osteopenia well over 10 years ago but it's stabilized atleast for the past several years because I escalated my walking routine. Diet only does so much.
@@joltjolt5060 One time I stopped drinking milk in order to save money. It wasn't long before I developed joint pain and nerve pain. Soon after I resumed drinking milk, the pain disappeared. It has never returned, and that was years and years ago. I turn a deaf ear to doctors who tell me to stop drinking milk.
It's reassuring to hear that calcium from a supplement is the same as calcium from food. Some people seem to think fortified soy milk or orange juice is garbage, and we should be eating 14 cups of kale every day.
Can u give a brief summary of what I can get calcium im just not able to follow all of what you’re saying, I’m having a difficult time with concentration today, not feeling too good. Thank you!
Not only the intake needs to be right, but also the absorption. If you eat your calcium with a spinach smoothie (oxalates), it probably just goes straight down the toilette.
Or it goes to your kidneys as calcium oxalate, causing kidney stones, or to your joints as calcium oxalate, causing oxalate arthritis. Best to get calcium from diet, not supplements.
Barbara O’Neal says that Celtic Sea salt has most or all of the minerals that bones do and we should be taking that every day. What is your opinion on this?
Hi, very helpful indeed. Does it make any difference if one gets calcium via diet/mineral water or supplements? I have increased my daily average intake to about 1700mg, mainly through mineral water (no supplements). When I asked my dietitian if I should ease off, she said no, that wasn’t too much. She said up to 2500mg is ok…
Hi there, Yes, I think it does matter. Quantity, timing and form all make a difference. We don't recommend that much calcium and often through diet alone (not water) we can achieve our goals. Natural mineral water with calcium is likely absorbed but supplements less so and if added to water I would consider it a supplement.
Hi, I live in Switzerland so I imagine it’s not helpful to you. It has 547mg calcium per liter, I drink 1.5-2L. Maybe a google search would help you find an accessible brand.
My bone specialist wants me to supplement 1800 mg/day in addition to getting as much through food as possible, specifically through a lot of dairy products. Her reasoning is because even though my blood calcium is 9.1, my 24-hour urine calcium is only 33. She wants the urine calcium to be about 100. She is accusing me of not being compliant with calcium intake. I track my food daily through Cronometer. I do not take the high level of supplements she recommends but do get 1200-1400 mg/day through a variety of calcium-rich foods and calcium hydroxyapatite. It is very frustrating!
Wow, that's a lot of calcium! I don't see urine calcium as a good tool to monitor calcium intake. There are too many variables in the output. What is all that calcium is being mineralized in your bones instead of coming out in your urine?
@@Dr_DougLucas My thoughts exactly! She told me that is not possible, that apparently I am not being honest about my calcium intake or that it is not being absorbed at all. I am being honest. I have no absorption issues (tested for and discussed with my GI doc). I hope it is going to my bones. If not, where would it be going-passing in stool or going to my heart and arteries? I do take D, K2, Mg, zinc, probiotics. She is the 4th doctor I consulted with once I was diagnosed with osteoporosis. The others all pushed Prolia without any lab tests. She at least ordered all the appropriate tests and will monitor me.
Great information....I am confused with the differences between Calcium Carbonate; Calcium Citrate and Calcium Microcrystalline Hydroxyapatite or is there a big difference. When my doctor instructed me to take calcium she didn't specify and I have been taking Calcium carbonate for two years. My latest blood work in May showed Calcium level was with the normal range. Thank you....
Calcium blood levels don't say much. If they are in the normal range, that could mean everything is okay, or that your body is already getting rid of calcium by any means or it could mean it already takes calcium out of the bones. It's similar for other electrolytes. If they are way off, then you are really sick and may have been for some time.
Such helpful information Dr Lucas. Thank you for sharing your knowledge. Wish I knew how to get my calcium from food. Just heard from a utube doc that calcium in milk is not absorbed due to the high ratio of phosphorus 🤔 any thoughts on this? I drink goat milk daily. Much appreciation for your work❤
Hi, I would like to know what is your opinion Dr Lucas about taking Alendronate medication. This med. will stop a bad bone to dissolved so a bad bone will accumulating by time and my bone will be more brittle. Should I stop taking this medication and do just a supplements with weightbearing exercise? Thanks, Les
Hi Les, I can’t give specific medical advice through this channel but in general I only see bisphosphonates as a reasonable option when rapid bone loss is occurring and no other option will slow it down.
I’m getting so confused now ...I was ready to buy MCHA K2 D ...After my Bone Marrow Transplant age 28 they had me on Actonel for 5 years ...that was in 1996. I had been diagnosed with Osteopenia now osteoporosis. I tried taking Prolia and Fosamax...could not tolerate either one. I’m not sure what to buy now and I’m very concerned how to help combat this. Were you saying that I’m passed the age of help now at 57? Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank You Dr. Lucas 👏🏻
Hello, No one is passed the age of help. It's only a matter of how impactful we can be and what their starting point is. 57 is a great chronological age to get started. Maybe a great next step would be to join our Free Master Class. www.optimalbonehealth.com/bone-foundations-master-class
I have osteoporosis, it was actually my chiropractor that discovered it plus calcium in my artery (He takes full body x-rays). He is this that recommended D3/K2, vibration therapy and resistance training. My doctor order a scan to confirm osteoporosis. I started the regimen and after 2 years another scan showed improvement in bone density and slight reduction of calcium in arteries but I want better results. I also adopted Veganism (whole foods only, limited sugar) due to high cholesterol which has dropped dramatically. I only eat once a day so I need supplemental vitamins. I watched your other video about the best calcium, Calcium Hydroxyapetite. However most contain Magnesium which acts against calcium. I did find one that did not not have magnesium in the formula. So how does one supplement magnesium which is also necessary as well as zinc? Take them on different days? What is a good magnesium supplement? Thank you for your videos (new subscriber). Will take the Master Class.
Hello, Thank you for sharing. You have created a thoughtful approach to treating your bone health. Well done! A few thoughts. 1. Most calcium supplements come with a bit of magnesium. These two elements occur naturally often so I don't mind the interaction. Large doses of magnesium can be taken separately. We use a chelated or reacted form 2. Vegan diets in my opinion are not the best choice for bone health. While a whole foods approach eliminates many of the pitfalls I see the limited protein choices are a major concern. Welcome to the channel!
@@Dr_DougLucas Thank you so much for responding! Being Vegan has worked for me (ethical concerns about animals/marine life are a factor why I chose Veganism). I get protein mostly from Chick peas, Lentils and other legumes. I'm still concerned about my bone health. Thanks again will be watching all your videos!
Calcium hydroxyapatite in toothpaste (Boka) is excellent for teeth remineralizing but not to be taken orally as it can cause breast calcification. From Sciencedirect: Calcium oxalate is mostly associated with benign lesions of the breast, whereas hydroxyapatite is associated with both benign and malignant tumors. Take zinc with copper 30-50 mg daily and magnesium Glycinate 200 mg three times a day along with Vit D3(5000-7000IU) and K2 (100-200 mcg) daily and silica liquid 15 ml (swish and swallow-gums/teeth/bone health) for bone density.
Supplement with vegan organic pea powder daily. For protein & iron, vegans can eat: Beans. Beans, such as kidney beans, soybeans, pinto, black beans, and navy beans are a rich source of protein. ... Legumes. ... Tofu & Tempeh. ... Green Peas. ... Whole Grains. ... Nuts & Seeds. ... Fruits & Vegetables. ... Lentil Soup Dr Doug…I am on WFPB NO SOS….my protein on lab test is optimal and no more osteopenic. I also do weights and aerobics at 73. I look 50 and have the energy of a 40 year old. Look up Dr Joel Fuhrman.
Fragility fracture prevention is my search so the other minerals magnesium chromium phosphorus potassium mineral management? Some vitamin? I am in excellent health otherwise. On Alendronate one dose that is all prescription except tube estrodiol for a prolapse repair of lift ligaments to uterus and wall of vagina. Exercised like always step race 10 miles/ day sprinted 9 minutes/ day and weight resistant on arms shoulders. Now bc of no weight bearing fell 6/26 anterior hip replacement 6/27. Found another fracture 7/14 put on no weight bearing.
Where would you recommend for those with low parathyroid get their calcium from. I'm stage 3 renal failure so trying to watch my levels. What's best absorbed. Food vs pills. Im 71. Also. What are your thoughts of treating osteoporosis using bio-identical hormones ?
Hi Patricia, Food is almost universally a better way to absorb nutrients than supplements. BHRT has many benefits and each component directly impacts bone turnover for the better. Only estrogen is FDA approved to treat osteoporosis. We use BHRT to manage symptoms and goals for our patients. Their bones get better too.
@@Dr_DougLucas There is a lot of confusion over whether or not progesterone helps to build bone. I personally believe that it does, but some doctors are insisting that no, it doesn't.
My doctor says he wants me to take 1500 mg of calcium each day plus 1000 mg of vit D. In addition he wants me to take Alendionate 1 time a week. I already take 5000 mg vit D daily and eat lots of cheese daily. He told me to drop vit D to 5 k from 7 k last year. I don't want to take the bone medicine because it is recommended to stop after 3-5 years. Then what? Am I supposed to die the next year? I am 79 and intend to live more than five more years. I eat a great deal of cheese and have taken vit D for years. I have ordered the calcium you recommended in another video but have declined the bone medicine. Also I have restarted the weight lifting program I stopped because of back problems a year ago, Maybe it isn't enough, but at least my jaw won't rot away.
Thank you so much for sharing all of this. It sounds like you could benefit from the next free Bone Foundations Masterclass we have coming up if you have not attended one before. You can find more information here -->www.optimalhumanhealth.com/build-bone
I saw where you had said you are presently taking OsteoPrev. That product has not been approved in Canada so i can't buy it here. Can you suggest a good alternative while we wait for the Canadian approval?
Great question! Checkout our health span nation if you have not yet, you get exclusive access to me and a community of people pursuing health and longevity. These are things that we discuss in there and it allows us to go into detail rather than doing short chats through this platform. You can find more information here --> www.drdouglucas.com/healthspan
sooo my bone scan shows 'calcium deposits' in my arteries... no explanation as to : is my body leaching calcium FROM my bones ? .. & why ?... . Is my body NOT absorbing calcium ? ... and WHY ? .... Is my body taking calcium and depositing it into my arteries ? ... and ALSO WHY ? ... THESE ARE THE QUESTIONS that I'd like to see answered. - I am no longer taking 'calcium supplements' for fear of Depositing it into my Arteries .
Hi There. Great questions and totally understandable concerns. Remember that arterial calcification is a common occurrence with aging and not always or likely even frequency related to calcium supplementation. However, too much calcium can be harmful. We use a measure and replace if necessary approach utilizing dietary logging of food and supplementation based on a custom target depending on history and goals.
For myself I know I can't get enough calcium through diet alone I do take calcium but with other vitamins and minerals but I do my best to get nutrition from diet and plenty of protein and healthy fats, but when it comes to calcium from diet which is better? calcium from animal foods or calcium from plant foods?
Depends on the products you are consuming and with what combination of foods. Dairy is well absorbed. Plant calciums can be well absorbed if not combined with antinutrients like oxalates. Working with a dietician who can separate these things out is really helpful.
I would rather chew some beef bones than taking supplements. Anyway, after breast cancer treatments, my doc. wants me to take calcium and Vitamin D supplements...I am a carnivore and eat lots of meat, and some dairy. So I don't really worry about calcium, but Vd is difficult because even in summer, we don't get much sunshine and I do eat some anchovies, salmon and sardines. Taking plenty of pills is never a solution for me. I am still able to do HIIT, lifting, yoga and pilates and walk 12-15km daily....I wonder if those are the good signs that my bones are actually okay at age of 51? Or do I really have to do some tests to find out?
Hello, I always encourage testing. How we feel is a good subjective measure but should always be paired with objective data because we often can't feel deficiencies until damage has been done!
@@angiesrecipes DEXA is the most common way to screen and update bone density but other options include REMS, an ultrasound study as well as blood tests for bone turnover markers. I have a video on this which you can find if you search dr doug lucas bone tests.
Sorry you don't feel further along. Our goal is to educate. Perhaps you need more direction. Consider our free master class as a next step. Link in the description of the videos.
You are right, there are a lot of information out there and a lot of them are misinformation. You said protein an important building block to building stronger bone in another video, may I ask, if consumption of protein is not up to the mark of daily requirement, should one take protein powder? Thank you doctor.
You should ask yourself why your protein consumption isn't up to the mark. Are you eating other things that are making you full, but are not really essential (fiber comes to mind)? If you don't eat much, stick to the essentials: protein and fat.
@@wocket42 actually the question is for my mom who's in depression now following a fall last year which fractured her spine and suddenly her personality changed. Refused to eat much meat because she says it's hard to chew, hates eggs, yoghurt, refuses seafood, basically a lot of the good stuff she was eating before her fall. No one can force her to eat what she doesn't want to eat at this point of her funk. So just asking about protein powder.
Hello, Sorry to hear about your mom. That is a tough situation. @wocket42's approach is valid though. Focus on the important things if possible. Having seen many patients go through this though I know these are the first things to go. Perhaps discuss depression management with her team. That seems like the underlying issue. She has to want to fight to continue on.
Oh, and protein powder? Sure. Many of our patients do. We use whey powders for those that can tolerate it and beef isolate (my favorite) for those that can't. Favorite companies are Kion and Equipe respectively.
@@Dr_DougLucas Definitely. It's been going on for 1 year now and she has seen 4 psychiatrist, all couldn't help her out of her depression. She chose to sink deeper. She's willing to exercise but grudgingly with a sour face but refused to eat anything she thinks is hard, which of course is meat and even hard boil eggs to her is ridiculously tough. So I was thinking of sneaking protein powder into her drink but needed to know if it's actually safe. She's 78. Thanks for your confirmation and answer on the protein powder below. I will do my research on them and discuss with my brother. Many thanks again!!
Hi, Thank you for the video. I was reading the risk of MCHC on one of the manufacturer's labels. This label said if you had ever had an estrogen receptor positive breast cancer to not take microcrystalline hydroxyapatite. Any thoughts? Thanks
Only reason I can think of would be, that they contain growth factors, which I suppose in theory could increase the risk of recurrent cancer. I mean this is likely more of a CYA statement than based on any real data.
I had sewere back pain on exeertion or standing for 1 or 2 hrs. My Dr recommended to take vit D and ca supplements. Even though I told him that I already having stones. Now after 5 months the no. of stones is increased and sr. Ca levels are also little higher and the backpain is even more worsen on exertion. What should I do...should I do dexa scan /are my bones not absorbing calcium?
Hi there. Lots of factors in this equation! To answer this question would require an in depth look at labs, history and imaging. You could consider our additional resources in the description of the videos or a full service program to really get to the bottom of the issue.
So how does the government regulate the course of calcium in the supplements when in fact there is no real regulation.Have CAC test done will tell you if you have calcium in you bloodstream and where it's supposed to be going not causing deposits in other organs which would be catastrophic. Also the need for vitamin K2 to direct it to the bones.Just taking calcium because your doctor told you to is ridiculous
Checkout our health span nation if you have not yet, you get exclusive access to me and a community of people pursuing health and longevity. These are things that we discuss in there and it allows us to go into detail rather than doing short chats through this platform. You can find more information here --> www.drdouglucas.com/healthspan
Not sure the direct impact on the thyroid but we don't recommend high doses of calcium to any of our patients and a sedentary lifestyle has negative consequences on it's own.
Pregnant women are always difficult to study because of the high cost of risk with a fetus. I would ask your OBGYN for the most up to date information,.
@@Dr_DougLucas She not updated so that's why I'm researching on my own. So far, I think it's best to get calcium all from food instead of risking the calcification, kidney stones and throwing your other minerals out of balance.
All these videos on TH-cam ALL offering different supplements and dosing to😮 prevent diseases, conditions, IS VERY CONFUSING. My best advice, ask your own doctor what vitamins you need. And have him/her prescribe them, since there are so many supplements out there and different dosing, and you don't really know what you are really buying. Best of health!
Hmmmm, I look at it as a supplemental form. Almonds do not contain calcium naturally so Ca has to be added to almond milk. This is typically done as a calcium salt which is not as well absorbed as MCHC or OHC calciums. Additionally, although reduced from processing almond milk still contains oxalates which will bind to calcium and limit absorption.
Is the 12 000 mg calcium the gross or elemental level which may be too high (depending)? In South Africa my supplement is 1300mg calcium carbonate to 500mg elemental calcium. I have osteoporosis but also high cholesterol so worried about my heart. I don’t see CAC on my blood test but do have reduced glomerular filtration (73L) and worried about loading my body with supplements.
Checkout our masterclass or healthspan nation if you have not. We are able answer more specific questions like this through those platforms. Links for both of those are in the video description :)
It’s true that they can compete for absorption but these two are found commonly in nature together and as such commonly absorbed together. We just don’t recommend large doses of either at one time.
My doctor told me to take at least 500 mg calcium as my bone density scan showed osteopenia. I haven't bought the calcium yet as I'm so confused with this topic. Should I take the calcium together with vitamin d3 and K2? Appreciate if you can answer my question please as i subscribed to your channel
Hello, the answer is…. It depends. Calcium taken with vitamin d and vitamin k should not be dangerous BUT we have our patients check how much calcium they are getting in diet and only supplement if needed.
Listened to an interview regarding the study/use of MK4 K2 in Japan at high dose 45mg/day which reduced fractures. Thoughts on incorporating 45 mg MK4 K2 each day?
MK4 has a short half life and less impact on OsteoCalcin than MK7. OsteoCalcin is the mechanism that Vitamin K utilizes to impact osteoblasts and bone health. I believe that MK4 is good but I think MK7 is better.
@@Dr_DougLucas the same presenter said that while there is alot of data from Japan with MK4 there is no fracture data wiht MK7 and MK7 was much cheaper--? How much MK7 do you recommend? Is it anywhere near the 45 mg used in Japan. Seems like supplements are much lower doses than what was used in Japan. Is Japan still using the 45 mg of MK4 as their treatment of choice?
@@selma5885 We use a product with 300 mcg of MK7. That's 0.3mg but you can't compare apples to apples with the two in dosing. I'm not familiar with what they are doing in Japan!
Can you grow bone in menopause ( 6 years in for me) without HRT? i.e. through exercise/supplements? If so what calcium target do you recommend for women in early 60's in menopause since age 55 or so? My obgyn is not in favor of HRT.
Hello, Perhaps a second opinion on HRT is in order. OBGYNs in general only use HRT for symptoms of menopause (as approved by the FDA) and usually overlook other proven health benefits. There is always a risk benefit discussion but we look at hormones differently. Can bone be improved without them? Sure, but they are powerful tools when available.
I'm just a regular 67yo female but ALL information I have read says that weight-bearing exercises like brisk walking is a great way to atleast, in my own experience, to maintain if not gain bone density. Walking up an incline of any kind adds power to that exercise. My own diagnosis of Osteopenia has remained stable for the past several years because that is my regular routine. Walking also helps relieve depression. I only had to stop many years before that because I was taking muscle relaxants for severe migraines. But no more.
Since calcium supplements may not have any benefit, but seem to be related to heart disease, why would you prescribe those, but not Raloxifene, which has many positive effects, but only one negative? I'm 61, diagnosed at 38 (my sister at 35), had various doctors managing this over the years, and NOT. A. SINGLE. ONE. ever asked WHY! WHY?? HOW did this happen? Finally I started complaining that we were only treating symptoms, and never figured out how I was in this position in the first place, after a lifetime as a milk lover. My endo tested me for OI, which was neg, and then just dropped the issue. You are the exception to the almost universal rule, but most doctors wait till you have a disease, then give you a pill. In my case, it was a pill, and then daily shots, and then q6mo Prolia--while failing to inform me that you can't get off of the stuff, but you can't stay on it either. I was never even THAT bad! Just barely into -porotic territory. Also have lupus, asthma, thyroid masses, prediabetes even tho underweight and on low carb, and probably Ehler's Danlos (the stretchy one). Still very active and appear healthy. I WANT TO GET OFF PROLIA.
Thanks for sharing. I feel your frustration and know you’re not alone. Getting off Prolia and not onto Reclast requires a comprehensive plan and probably isn’t a realistic goal for some.
2024 UPDATE ON CALCIUM! I'm always doing more and more research to better serve my clients so check this video out if you want to know what I suggest today! th-cam.com/video/3fcbh2TVS5Y/w-d-xo.html
Thank you for this information. When diagnosed with osteo, my doctor said “make sure you get enough calcium.” There was no guidance on how to achieve that. So, like most women, I had to research and then discovered all the things you said - different dosages, different “forms” of the calcium, algae, dairy …. No wonder women get confused and overwhelmed. What you say makes sense about needing the calcium amongst other things as a building block. I’ve never looked for a magic pill or the “one food” that will solve bone loss or bone growth. In relation to calcium the only solid bit of info I got from research is that the body can only absorb so much calcium in one hit so you need to try to have calcium preferably through diet throughout the day. I had hypercalcemia so investigations into that didn’t reveal much for me except don’t take supplements, but my diet is way less than the 1200mg supposedly needed. Cannot tell you how stressful just this one topic is for me. I’ve concluded that if I eat whole foods, Vit D and K, and weight bearing exercise, I’m giving myself a better chance of improving bone quality and general health than by doing nothing. Osteoporosis is a S**T condition and more should be done to PREVENT it than is being done.
I couldn't agree more. In creating calcium recommendations we aim for below 1,200mg as I said. If you can get most of that through diet great. For our patients that hypercalcemia we want to figure out why and then resolve that issue if possible and then supplementation can be used if needed.
You are absolutely correct when saying more should be done to prevent osteoporosis. Those suffering with malabsorption, coeliac disease, bowel issues and other autoimmune conditions which can lead to osteoporosis . For example If patients were screened for Coeliac every 7yrs from birth , after pregnancy or a significant trauma then we might identify those at risk of osteoporosis earlier. Many Coeliacs have had the condition for 20yrs or more without knowing and haven’t had the opportunity to change lifestyle in order to reduce the onset
@@lesleyharwood1228 It's so much more common and symptoms are often ignored.
If more men than women got osteoporosis, & if osteo males couldn't get erections, you better believe scientists & government would be ON IT!
@@lesleyharwood1228🎉Zaá4
2 years ago I was diagnosed with severe osteoporosis…….and, of course, Calcium was the no one to do things. Lucky for me my body response was headaches, nausea, diarrharea. When I mentioned this to my GP and specialist, I felt like they didn’t hear me. Impossible they said. So, I did my own research and discovered bit K2 and D3. My last scan few weeks ago showed an improvement of 3% in bone density. I am 67 years old. I also added more, without awareness, foods that contain Calcium…such as sugar snap peas, salmon, green leaf veggies ….etc.
To cut the long story short, do your research, don’t buy into lazy doctors advise, be mindful. Funny thing is that when my GP learn about me not getting worse ( each year I should’ve lost 1% bone density according to her) she was not at all interested how I got there.
Interesting, I stopped taking Calcium prescribed by GP as I also felt sick, bloated and gut issues. When I mentioned this I was dismissed. It’s just take a drug and go away. I’m now seeing a Functional Medicine Practitioner and after extensive bloods have a plan to move forward. Interestingly my Calcium levels are fine.
Thank you for sharing this!
what dose did you take?
Great info! Wish you would talk about the danger of calcium in the soft tissue (especially the arteries), and how to prevent it with D3 and K2.
I can add this to my list of suggested topics to cover!
Vitamin K2 [Menaquinone] = EVERYTHING.
👉 It is called Calcium Regulation.
Calcium will Never Not go errantly into soft tissue & arteries without K2 which carboxylate 2 proteins we have, just waiting to be activated:
1]. OSTEOCALCIN to lay calcium into the bone matrix.
2] MGla to keep calcium out of soft tissue & arteries.
@@Dr_DougLucas Thanks. It’s of vital importance.
Absolutely! Stay tuned. Thank you for your support.@@genxx2724
@@Dr_DougLucas This is definitely of great interest! Wondering if this video is up yet. I was unable to find it, but maybe I missed it. If not, I hope it will come!
You are an excellent communicator, sir!🙏🏻
Thank you!
Thank you for digging into this. For years settling on what type of calcium to take was so dizzying that I put it off somewhat indefinitely. Then, when I heard calcium supplementation could lay down plaque in the arteries, I truly threw in the towel. Here I am at 66 with osteopenia - and increased bone loss over the last five years. P.S. Crohns disease and several courses of prednisone hasn't helped my situation. I keep my Vitamin D levels optimized but I need a comprehensive plan! I will continue to consume this information and perhaps seek a consultation.
Thank you for sharing this! Appreciate your support.
I got osteoporosis do to chemo from breast cancer 25 years ago. Tried evista didn’t work. Used Forteo for 2 years now going to go on Reclast infusion a year. I work out with weights ride my bike 🚴🏻 and walk a lot with weights. Farmers walk. My bone markers are excellent now. I’m 68 I feel 50 . I also ice climb 🧗♀️.
That's great! Glad you are doing well. I hope your repeat DEXA is also positive.
Me too, chemo breast cancer survivor of 7 years...and now I am having to deal with Osteoporosis. Still sorting things out. Best wishes to you!
A very thought-provoking video, thank you. Studies that focus on calcium alone aren't really helpful . As you noted, we need additional supplementation in the form of D3, magnesium, boron, MK7, etc. I haven't read any of those studies, but I wonder if they ever take exercise into account. One can fall into the trap of thinking calcium supplementation is a substitute for exercise, when both are necessary.
For sure. The studies I discusses use calcium exclusively as an intervention. A complete program would be great to study but when that is done it's difficult to know the impact of each individual component. Classically studies like this are often then taken out of context and a single intervention touted as the answer to the problem. Hard to get it right...
I love this channel! So much careful and thoughtfully-researched information that our doctors are not offering.
Thank you so much!
still confused about calcium. right now am taking Natures plus cal/mag/vitd3/vit k Calcium 1200mg/600mg/25 mcg(1000 iu) with vit k2 100mcg im taking one a day.
do eat pretty healthy. 84 years old with osteoporosis and arthritis they are chewables
dr. ordered fozamax and so far i will not take it. thank you. Appreciate your information. you seem invested in this cause.
Thank you. We are quite invested in this cause. Regarding your calcium consumption. Our approach with our patients is to calculate through food tracking how much calcium is coming in through diet. Then we work with the patient to come up with our goal number which will be between 800 and 1200 mg. We generally end up closer to 800. The difference between 800 and the amount that is being consumed through diet as what we recommend being consumed through supplementation. Most supplements have way too much calcium.
I really appreciate the critical thinking Dr Doug brings to this subject bc there is SO much information out there. Without medical training it would be impossible to interpret the data.
Thank you for watching!
The recommendations are all over the place, thanks for helping us make sense of it all.
Your welcome!
Too much calcium can cause the body to not absorb other minerals and bones need 12 different minerals. Boron has been shown to be important to reverse or help with osteoporosis and osteopenia. Putting a pinch of Celtic salt, Himalayan salt, or Redmond’s Real salt on your tongue and letting it dissolve and then drinking a sip of water, also helps get the body trace minerals the body and bones needs. So many things affect bone health.
So true! The owner of Celtic Sea Salt is my neighbor! Trace minerals are great and something we recommend. I have a pending video on the topic.
Are you saying that the salt has all 12 minerals, including Boron?
@@candierichard8931 Barbra O’Neill says Celtic has 82 of the 92 minerals needed for the body. Himalayan has around 60-80, and Redmond’s Real Salt has 65+. Celtic is known for its high magnesium levels and has 3 different magnesium’s, and Himalayan is known for its higher potassium content. I switch between all 3 because they all have varying minerals and levels. For me, I feel it is more balanced to go for all 3. Purists feel one should only consume salt from their area. Meaning North Americans should only use Redmond’s, Europeans should only use Celtic, and Asian, Himalayan. Just fyi.
@@candierichard8931 Hello,
The mineral composition of mined salt is extremely variable. We are big fans of Celtic Sea Salt for their sourcing and production. Does it contain all the needed minerals for bone growth? Nope, buts it’s darn good.
Dr Doug
so should it be a pinch on tongue once per day for dosage?@@Dr_DougLucas
Thanks for an informative look at calcium. Appreciate your deep dive and summary. I’m 70 and recently diagnosed with osteoporosis. Just started Fosamax. Am reluctant about it. Also on phenobarbital since I was 6, to control epilepsy. That has contributed to my bone loss, according to Dr. I’m continuing to learn. I will check out mire of your videos. Thanks for being on TH-cam so we can get help!
Glad it was helpful!
I have friends who have had weird bone fractures of hips and jaws on Fosamax. All drugs in this family are treacherous. They build bone but they don't build strong trustworthy bone.
Be super careful with Fosamax! Check with your dentist. It can cause jaw bone necrosis. Biphosphonates are great to a degree for some.
My doc put me on Raloxifene. (I am post menopausal.) This will help if you don't have clotting issues. See what your doc says.
I bought a LIV machine to get 30 Hz frequency (suggested by NASA) and 3mm amplitude. Also D3 with K2 mk-7 is super important.
When I was first diagnosed with osteopenia and osteoporosis I was told to take 1200 mg of calcium a day, with no recommendation to include in that number what I ate in my diet. Unfortunately I got calcification in my heart valves because I already ate calcium rich foods. So I'm very skeptical about supplementation and I don't worry about trying to hit 1200 mg total. Once I found out what did UK recommended, I a 700 to 900 mg a day. My numbers have stayed pretty stable because I exercise and lift weights
Thank you for sharing your story! Your approach seems logical to me with likely adequate calcium. Depending on your starting point there are likely more tools you could use to see improvements in your bone health if you are interested.
Great video. I love the expert analysis of these research studies to help understand how they apply to your personal situation. Calcium supplementation seems to be the most confusing. Good information!
Glad it was helpful!
Wow, what a knowledgeable video from Dr. Lucas. I was diagnosed with Osteopenia September of 2023 and told to start taking 1200 mg of calcium; but, I've not started yet. Only doing my vitamin C and D supplements and daily exercises to increase my strength. It has been confusing with a lot of different supplements out there and I need to get the right one for my body dynamics. Looking forward to learning more about how I can continue to build my bones. I prefer doing things the natural way as much as possible. I'm also a vegan eater so my proteins come in other forms of food.
Thank you for sharing all of this, I appreciate your support as well. Checkout our free Masterclass if you have not yet. You may enjoy it! You can find more information here --> www.optimalbonehealth.com/build-bone
Take a look at Vitamin K2 mk-7.
This confirms what I have been doing -- consuming most calcium from diet & only supplementing 200mg daily at most. Using Cronometer which has been an eye-opener to improve my over nutrition!
Thank you for sharing this!
What is a Chronometre please
@@gilljackson9971 it's an app where you record the food you eat. It keeps track of the nutrients from the food you eat.
@@gilljackson9971 Hi Gill, Cronometer is a food tracker. You can Google it and learn more.
diagnosed a decade back but just couldn't digest calcium. anyway, stopped supplements but try to get calcium in my food. thanks doc❤
Glad this video was helpful. Thank you for sharing!
Thank you so very much for your videos. You make so much sense and that makes me feel hopeful.
You are so welcome
Thank you so much for this video. My naturopath was talking about the process and ability to build bone density and took me off calcium supplementation and onto a probiotic that is meant to help with absorption process, while on the other hand my doctors are saying take a supplement for calcium and vit D. I am in my early forties and have started perimenopause early and it looks like low estrogen is my biggest cause of my osteopenia. I am on hrt but I am trying to address nutrition and exercise too. Super confusing around calcium so I appreciate your analysis very much.
Of course! I am glad you enjoyed it. Thank you for sharing your story.
I had been taking 1000mg of calcium but when the thrombosis/embolic risks were identified, I lowered that dose to 500mg. Now I have -2.7 in my rotoscolitic spine and my hip isn’t as bad has osteopenia according to Dexa done in a July. I resumed more calcium and adjusted micronutrients of vitamin K2. I have been on adequate D3 supplementation, with serum D3 measured in middle of therapeutic range.
Thank you for sharing this!
I just recently found your videos. I am 78, diagnosed with osteoporosis when I was in my late 50's, put on Fosamax first, then Actenol. After a few years I was told to stop taking these pills. Nothing about taking calcium. I have kept fairly active, went vegan 15 years ago, eat a very healthy diet...thinking I need to quit gluten though. I have had a few fractures in recent years and now have collapsed vertebrae. Referred to an Endocrinologist who keeps testing my blood and 24 hr. urine tests, and a big increase in Calcium supplements; recommends either Evenity or Prolia injections. These have possible serious side effects including stroke and jaw problems. I had a few small strokes in the past four years and am partially blind as a result. Also had an auto immune problem with my teeth...two had to be removed. I really do not want to take the injections. I really do not know what to do. I am working on more exercise but my pain is pretty bad some days...taking extra strength Tylenol which helps a bit.
Hi Karen,
Thank you for sharing your story. You are not alone in this situation! I can't give medical advice through this channel but I can say that there are situations in which the risks of the drugs start to be outweighed by the benefits. I do fear jaw issues in patients on antiresorptive drugs like bisphosphonates and Prolia.
I'm not a dr, but I've read vitamin d3 and k2 (bought mine at Wally world), magnesium, and yes I cheat taking 1,000 calcium from antacid (cheap). Idk if it's working, but I've read it's the thing
@@joltjolt5060 Might be! Make sure to retest to verify!
Well that’s it for me. Prescribed fosamax, boniva and many others.. just can’t get myself to actually take it. I’m 76 have osteoporosis lower lumbar and I’ve done some research… I shall rather follow the proper diet etc to keep my bones as healthy as possible. One thing I was told … the jaw … hmm . Not good future there with bone . Thank you I’m following…
Thank you for sharing!
It's about Estrogen...the lack of it.
Its definitely not that simple.
@@LesleyMowat ...especially post menopausal . Sadly, it's hard to catchup after rapid BMD loss in our early to mid 50's. And finding a doctor to do the correct blood tests to determine proper treatment is the next hurdle.
If that were the only cause, all men would get osteoporosis.
@@MariaMartinez-researcher men convert testosterone to Estrogen. Without Estrogen bone mass is reduced. Keep researching...😁
@@MariaMartinez-researcherLittle known fact is that men produce estrogen as well, just like women produce testosterone. Preventing bone loss does not require large amounts of estrogen. Also, I was shocked to learn that once a woman is post menopausal, she has less estrogen in her body than a man her age! Menopause is a long term female hormone deficiency with health risks! There are great evidence based resources now to help educate about this. Women deserve to know.
Great info. Thank you. Thank you. You are helping so many. What a blessing.
You are so welcome
I always wonder how one can give a RDA for everyone when people vary in body weight from 100 -250+ lbs? I weigh about 100 and despite my Dr telling me to take the 1200 calcium I always kept it between 700-900 calcium glycinate. I don't eat dairy and I have osteoporosis so I assume I need supplementation. But my osteoporosis is not improving. I also take K2, trace minerals, Vitamin D.
Hi Barbara,
I agree that the recommendations don’t make sense on calcium. Out of line with every other country. When a program isn’t working though, we generally will make sure we understand the cause of bone loss and recalibrate the approach.
This was a very helpful video. Thank you. I am currently looking into the Marodyne Low Intensity Vibration machine. There are good recent videos about how this can help bone density without pharmaceuticals. I'd love it if you would look into this and do a video on this type of treatment.
Hello,
Take a look at my video on whole body vibration. search dr doug lucas vibration and you should find it!
DR. DOUG, Today is 3-25-2024. I said I was confused as to whether or not to take calcium supplements since I was diagnosed with Osteoporosis a week ago. This morning you sent me a reply, asking me to watch this specific video. I just finished watching it. What I clearly got from the video is ( because I am pushing 80 ) : 1. Do NOT take calcium supplements, period, the end, of ANY TYPE. 2. EVEN if wanting to take a supplement of some sort that happens to have a little calcium in forms such as as algae…..DO NOT TAKE IT IN ANY FORM. 3. THEREBY, ANY SUPPLEMENTS I MIGHT….FIND…..IT IN,THROW THE SUPPLEMENT AWAY OR GIVE IT TO A YOUNGER PERSON. Bottom line…..am I hearing you correctly ? YOU may have just saved my life, Dr. Doug . Thank you !❤️
Hi! Thank you for sharing this, It is very difficult for me to give specific recommendations through this platform. I am glad you viewed the video and found it helpful. It would be easier to discuss through our Health Span nation community where you get exclusive access to me and a community of people with similar questions. You can find more information here --> www.drdouglucas.com/healthspan
What are you having for calcium then ?
@@magic.weaver I am not. I AM taking supplements that strengthen my bones, but nothing specifically that says calcium or makes me think calcium. Three weeks ago, because of my lack of depth perception, I fell. It took two men to help me up because of my unsteadiness. I thank Jesus that I did not break any bones.
@@carolcole570 i am taking calcium only through my diet. Dairy, boney fishes, nuts and seeds, besides that i am taking D3 supplements
@@magic.weaver I eat cheddar cheese. I take Strontium. I take 20,000 IU of D3+. And I eat roasted almonds.
Thank you for your very informative content.
You stated that calcium supplements may be more beneficial to pre-menopausal women and was wondering about males and age/life changing periods and the +/- benefits.
Yes! We go into detail about supplements more in our free masterclass. You can find find further information here --> www.optimalbonehealth.com/build-bone
Great video, thanks! I'll be joining your Masterclass. Question - what about caffeine and it's effect on calcium absorption and/or bone loss? There is soooo much conflicting information out there about this topic and wondering if you have information on this?
Yes! I recommend joining our healthspan nation. We also have a live Q&A at the end of our Bone Foundations masterclass session where I can answer more specific questions like this. Both links are in the video description :)
Recent diagnosis of osteoporosis. My primary suggested Fosamax etc. but I do not want to take them. He then suggested Calcitonin Sal nasal spray. I did agree to start that. I also take Vitamin D 3000. Your opinion?
Thank you for sharing! Checkout our health span nation if you have not yet, you get exclusive access to me and a community of people pursuing health and longevity. These are things that we discuss in there and it allows us to go into detail rather than doing short chats through this platform. You can find more information here --> www.drdouglucas.com/healthspan
Thanks for much for your knowledge 😊😊😊
Thank you!
Great video. Thank you!
Glad you liked it!
I was taking 1200 a day yet because of my gastric bypass surgery I had malabsorption. They then told me to double that but I found out that I took that 1200 all at once but you can only absorb 600 each 4 hours. So now I split it up plus take vitamin d3 an k2.
Thank you for sharing this!
Dr. Lucas, why nothing said about calcium not good for the arteries? A doctor once told me to not take calcium because of calcification of the arteries. Not sure taking K2MK7 resolves that issue. Can you address that? Thank you.
Hello,
Yes, I can. Ectopic calcification (calcium in the arteries) can occur with excess supplementation. The studies are clear that calcium alone increases the risk of stroke and heart attack. Studies that use Ca and Vit D show no increase in these events. Studies on Vit K show reversal of calcification. So, while I haven't seen a study on all three together I think it's safe to say it's a reasonable approach.
@@Dr_DougLucas I have been taking Vit D, VItK, Magnesium for over four years fatithfully. Never have taken calcium supplements. i have plaque in my left descending artery (think that is the one). i have gone from -2.4 in left femoral neck to -3.2 in this four year period. Hmmm Very disheartening.
@@candierichard8931 Sounds like you are still losing bone! Have you been to our master class? We discuss many tools there you may consider.
I have Osteoporosis!!!
Thank you for this info!!
Thank you for watching!
Very frustrating trying to figure everything out. I have spoken with a nutritionist and even this person doesn't seem to know a lot. It would be helpful for a concise direction and diet suggestions because not everyone can probably do your program. More details on Anti-nutrients and how to prepare foods to eliminate them so can still benefit from them, etc. Maybe an video with you and a dietician that can help offer practical tips and how to get everything you need. i feel like i am sinking. and i have done supplements for years and bone health is worse. i have mentioned that before.
I completely understand your concern and frustration. That's why we do these videos. We have added a group coaching program that can help with these questions! If you'd like to learn more you can schedule a time to chat with my team at the link below.
www.optimalbonehealth.com/schedule
Thank you very much. Your information was very helpful.
I would encourage you to use fewer images throughout your presentations. The frequency was distracting, and the ones with text weren’t on the screen long enough to read. Thanks!
Thank you for the feedback!
I am a 73 year old, 6"1", 220 pound male never having been diagnosed with osteoporosis or osteopenia, even though I have never had the DEXA test either. Normal Ca blood levels. I get 220 mgs of Ca with my multivitamin Centrum Senior, and add about 100mgs more with Citracal. Also, 200 mgs of magnesium supplement. I feel all of this is reasonably safe in terms of not too much, and not too little. Any comment?
Thank you for sharing this, unfortunately I cannot provide specific recommendations through this platform, I would need to know a little bit more about you as well. Checkout our health span nation if you have not yet, you get exclusive access to me and a community of people pursuing health and longevity. You can find more information here --> www.drdouglucas.com/healthspan
@@Dr_DougLucas I understand. Thank you.
Would love info about, or advice for managing, bone health during the years of taking an aromatase inhibitor. Thanks!
This is a challenging topic and I suggest you join our masterclass for more infor.
I've heard that vitamin K2 is crucial for the calcium to get into the bone. I have been taking calcium plu Vitamin D for years and just learned about this, and not from my doctor.
Thanks for sharing this!
would be interested to hear your opinion on the Wahl Protocol, and how it aligns with a long term goal of optimizing bone health? enjoy listening to your talks, i'm ex healthcare - ER, and in some messed up, way listening makes me miss 'the work thing" - so i get my info fixes when i need them! cheers from Canada, where health care is free and typically either 'bad', or non-existent.
Haha. I guess you get what you pay for? If that were true though we would have amazing care in the US and that seems to also not be true. Anyway, I've reviewed the Wahl's protocol before and agree with all of it EXCEPT that full fat dairy from local and possibly raw sources and well raised eggs are great for bones.
@@Dr_DougLucas
"You get what you pay for," isn't always true re: healthcare in Canada or US. And you should know that better than most!
Living as a 67yo with profitized Medicare (Dis)Adavantage, I can easily pay through the nose and get all kinds of misdiagnoses, & poor ineffective treatments and STILL! have to be one of over 500,000 Americans filing for medical bankruptcies each & every year!
BTW: NO healthcare is free! It's paid out of taxpayer dollars. It's just a more humane way of helping all the ppl it is suppose to. It SHOULD BE a human right in our so-called developed nation.
Eggs aren’t go for bones?@@Dr_DougLucas
I've noticed when I take a calcium tablet it causes my lower back and joint pains, I get roughly around 500mg per day from other sources, much more than that I start getting aches and pains
Thank you for sharing this!
Thank you for the information..
Thank you for watching!
A topic that I would love someone to investigate and provide better information on is breastfeeding and specifically prolonged breastfeeding and temporary (or not) low bone density. Then add in back to back pregnancies and breastfeeding…what to expect? Recovery time? How to promote recovery? Soooooo badly understood by medical professionals!!!!!
Thank you, I will add this to my list!
This was super helpful!
Glad it was helpful!
I have history of kidney stones. Should I take calcium at all? If i take, what is the best source? I read a study on line that implicated microcrystalline hydroxyapatite shouldn't be taken if you have hx of kidney stones. Would calcium citrate be a better choice? Your thoughts greatly appreciated. As a retired dietitian I absolutely love your channel and information.
Thank you! This is a tough question and depends on other factors. Possibly not but I’d have to know more to answer.
Hi Dr, is serum Calcium testing helpful at all in deciding about Calcium supplementation?
Hello,
Not generally. We use it as a tool to help determine causes of bone loss but calcium is tightly controlled in blood so, calcium in supplementation and diet should not significantly impact blood calcium levels.
I have osteopenia and osteoporosis. I also had a severe bout with calcium Oxalate kidney stones in 2021. For the kidney stones I’ve been told to get 1200 mg of calcium per day mostly through diet if possible. No more than 500 at a time. This is to ensure I have enough calcium to bind with the Oxalates so I do not form any more stones. I get most of my calcium through dairy and now I keep hearing how bad dairy is. It’s difficult to figure all of this out for sure! I do supplement with calcium citrate if I feel I need a little bit more. That’s the only type of calcium that does not bother my gut as I have issues there as well. I’m 66. Is this something you could work with?
Hi Gayle,
Thank you for the detail. Yes, this is something we deal with. The balance of oxalates, calcium and overall diet are part of our foundational pillars. If you'd like to talk with our team use this link.
www.optimalbonehealth.com/book
What do you do for exercise? Simple walking, brisk walking is best, can be helpful to anybody. I would take maybe a walking stick if you have any balance problems.
I was diagnosed with osteopenia well over 10 years ago but it's stabilized atleast for the past several years because I escalated my walking routine.
Diet only does so much.
Thank you for your support and sharing your story.@@andreah6379
Milk is not bad, industry leads "experts". Drink milk.
@@joltjolt5060 One time I stopped drinking milk in order to save money. It wasn't long before I developed joint pain and nerve pain. Soon after I resumed drinking milk, the pain disappeared. It has never returned, and that was years and years ago. I turn a deaf ear to doctors who tell me to stop drinking milk.
It's reassuring to hear that calcium from a supplement is the same as calcium from food. Some people seem to think fortified soy milk or orange juice is garbage, and we should be eating 14 cups of kale every day.
Right, thank you for sharing this!
Can u give a brief summary of what I can get calcium im just not able to follow all of what you’re saying, I’m having a difficult time with concentration today, not feeling too good. Thank you!
Hi, I'm not sure I understand your question. Let us know how we can help!
Not only the intake needs to be right, but also the absorption. If you eat your calcium with a spinach smoothie (oxalates), it probably just goes straight down the toilette.
Or it goes to your kidneys as calcium oxalate, causing kidney stones, or to your joints as calcium oxalate, causing oxalate arthritis. Best to get calcium from diet, not supplements.
One should keep track of the oxalate total intake, IMO. Yes, the nutrients must be bioavailable.
Indeed! So, which do you avoid? IMO avoid the oxalates.
True, but some diets are very low in calcium and in those patients supplementation may still be needed. Generally we are using small doses!
@@Dr_DougLucas Fair enough!
Barbara O’Neal says that Celtic Sea salt has most or all of the minerals that bones do and we should be taking that every day. What is your opinion on this?
I'm biased here. Celina Delangre, the owner of Celtic Sea Salt is my neighbor :) Absolutely, use it every day.
Hi, very helpful indeed. Does it make any difference if one gets calcium via diet/mineral water or supplements? I have increased my daily average intake to about 1700mg, mainly through mineral water (no supplements). When I asked my dietitian if I should ease off, she said no, that wasn’t too much. She said up to 2500mg is ok…
Hi there,
Yes, I think it does matter. Quantity, timing and form all make a difference. We don't recommend that much calcium and often through diet alone (not water) we can achieve our goals. Natural mineral water with calcium is likely absorbed but supplements less so and if added to water I would consider it a supplement.
what brand of mineral water? how much are you drinking /day?
Hi, I live in Switzerland so I imagine it’s not helpful to you. It has 547mg calcium per liter, I drink 1.5-2L. Maybe a google search would help you find an accessible brand.
My bone specialist wants me to supplement 1800 mg/day in addition to getting as much through food as possible, specifically through a lot of dairy products. Her reasoning is because even though my blood calcium is 9.1, my 24-hour urine calcium is only 33. She wants the urine calcium to be about 100. She is accusing me of not being compliant with calcium intake. I track my food daily through Cronometer. I do not take the high level of supplements she recommends but do get 1200-1400 mg/day through a variety of calcium-rich foods and calcium hydroxyapatite. It is very frustrating!
Wow, that's a lot of calcium! I don't see urine calcium as a good tool to monitor calcium intake. There are too many variables in the output. What is all that calcium is being mineralized in your bones instead of coming out in your urine?
@@Dr_DougLucas My thoughts exactly! She told me that is not possible, that apparently I am not being honest about my calcium intake or that it is not being absorbed at all. I am being honest. I have no absorption issues (tested for and discussed with my GI doc). I hope it is going to my bones. If not, where would it be going-passing in stool or going to my heart and arteries? I do take D, K2, Mg, zinc, probiotics. She is the 4th doctor I consulted with once I was diagnosed with osteoporosis. The others all pushed Prolia without any lab tests. She at least ordered all the appropriate tests and will monitor me.
@@joannelivengood7914 Labs are only as good as the interpretation... Urine calcium isn't helpful for following calcium intake in my opinion.
@@Dr_DougLucas I found this study: pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15780355/
The who recomend 500mg calcium per day, which I'm now following alongside d3 k2 so I absorb it better was averaging 1000mg calcium
Thank you for sharing this!
Great information....I am confused with the differences between Calcium Carbonate; Calcium Citrate and Calcium Microcrystalline Hydroxyapatite or is there a big difference. When my doctor instructed me to take calcium she didn't specify and I have been taking Calcium carbonate for two years. My latest blood work in May showed Calcium level was with the normal range. Thank you....
Dr. Lucas has a video on the different forms of calcium. Excellent. Look it up.
Calcium blood levels don't say much. If they are in the normal range, that could mean everything is okay, or that your body is already getting rid of calcium by any means or it could mean it already takes calcium out of the bones. It's similar for other electrolytes. If they are way off, then you are really sick and may have been for some time.
Calcium citrate has higher solubility than Calcium Carbonate.
Yes it does but not by much under the right circumstances. We don't use either.
Correct, calcium is tightly regulated and serum calcium measures are not usually elevated even with rapid bone loss.
Is alternative dairy products with additional calcium considered a supplement or food?
For my patients, I consider it a supplement.
Such helpful information Dr Lucas. Thank you for sharing your knowledge. Wish I knew how to get my calcium from food. Just heard from a utube doc that calcium in milk is not absorbed due to the high ratio of phosphorus 🤔 any thoughts on this? I drink goat milk daily. Much appreciation for your work❤
DON'T LISTEN TO TH-cam DOCTORS
Is this a question? Are you referring to me? What's your goal with this statement?
@@darrellhorner500why? You afraid to hear the truth?? Bet you are a pharmaceutical rep that peddles drugs and makes over $200,000 a year!!
Hi, I would like to know what is your opinion Dr Lucas about taking Alendronate medication. This med. will stop a bad bone to dissolved so a bad bone will accumulating by time and my bone will be more brittle. Should I stop taking this medication and do just a supplements with weightbearing exercise? Thanks, Les
Hi Les,
I can’t give specific medical advice through this channel but in general I only see bisphosphonates as a reasonable option when rapid bone loss is occurring and no other option will slow it down.
I'm 77 have severe osteoporosis also have scoliosis I'm due to start EVINITY. I'M SCARED
I'm sorry to hear that. We have a video on Evenity which may ease your fear. Search Dr Doug Lucas Evenity.
I’m getting so confused now ...I was ready to buy MCHA K2 D ...After my Bone Marrow Transplant age 28 they had me on Actonel for 5 years ...that was in 1996. I had been diagnosed with Osteopenia now osteoporosis. I tried taking Prolia and Fosamax...could not tolerate either one. I’m not sure what to buy now and I’m very concerned how to help combat this. Were you saying that I’m passed the age of help now at 57? Any advice would be greatly appreciated. Thank You Dr. Lucas 👏🏻
Hello,
No one is passed the age of help. It's only a matter of how impactful we can be and what their starting point is.
57 is a great chronological age to get started. Maybe a great next step would be to join our Free Master Class.
www.optimalbonehealth.com/bone-foundations-master-class
@@Dr_DougLucas -Thank You
I have osteoporosis, it was actually my chiropractor that discovered it plus calcium in my artery (He takes full body x-rays). He is this that recommended D3/K2, vibration therapy and resistance training. My doctor order a scan to confirm osteoporosis. I started the regimen and after 2 years another scan showed improvement in bone density and slight reduction of calcium in arteries but I want better results. I also adopted Veganism (whole foods only, limited sugar) due to high cholesterol which has dropped dramatically. I only eat once a day so I need supplemental vitamins.
I watched your other video about the best calcium, Calcium Hydroxyapetite. However most contain Magnesium which acts against calcium. I did find one that did not not have magnesium in the formula. So how does one supplement magnesium which is also necessary as well as zinc? Take them on different days? What is a good magnesium supplement? Thank you for your videos (new subscriber). Will take the Master Class.
Hello,
Thank you for sharing.
You have created a thoughtful approach to treating your bone health. Well done!
A few thoughts.
1. Most calcium supplements come with a bit of magnesium. These two elements occur naturally often so I don't mind the interaction. Large doses of magnesium can be taken separately. We use a chelated or reacted form
2. Vegan diets in my opinion are not the best choice for bone health. While a whole foods approach eliminates many of the pitfalls I see the limited protein choices are a major concern.
Welcome to the channel!
@@Dr_DougLucas Thank you so much for responding! Being Vegan has worked for me (ethical concerns about animals/marine life are a factor why I chose Veganism). I get protein mostly from Chick peas, Lentils and other legumes. I'm still concerned about my bone health. Thanks again will be watching all your videos!
@@zsigzsaghow did you like the Master Class?
Calcium hydroxyapatite in toothpaste (Boka) is excellent for teeth remineralizing but not to be taken orally as it can cause breast calcification.
From Sciencedirect:
Calcium oxalate is mostly associated with benign lesions of the breast, whereas hydroxyapatite is associated with both benign and malignant tumors.
Take zinc with copper 30-50 mg daily and magnesium Glycinate 200 mg three times a day along with Vit D3(5000-7000IU) and K2 (100-200 mcg) daily and silica liquid 15 ml (swish and swallow-gums/teeth/bone health) for bone density.
Supplement with vegan organic pea powder daily.
For protein & iron, vegans can eat:
Beans. Beans, such as kidney beans, soybeans, pinto, black beans, and navy beans are a rich source of protein. ...
Legumes. ...
Tofu & Tempeh. ...
Green Peas. ...
Whole Grains. ...
Nuts & Seeds. ...
Fruits & Vegetables. ...
Lentil Soup
Dr Doug…I am on WFPB NO SOS….my protein on lab test is optimal and no more osteopenic. I also do weights and aerobics at 73. I look 50 and have the energy of a 40 year old. Look up Dr Joel Fuhrman.
Fragility fracture prevention is my search so the other minerals magnesium chromium phosphorus potassium mineral management? Some vitamin? I am in excellent health otherwise. On Alendronate one dose that is all prescription except tube estrodiol for a prolapse repair of lift ligaments to uterus and wall of vagina. Exercised like always step race 10 miles/ day sprinted 9 minutes/ day and weight resistant on arms shoulders. Now bc of no weight bearing fell 6/26 anterior hip replacement 6/27. Found another fracture 7/14 put on no weight bearing.
Oh no! Thank you for sharing your story. Consider joining our master class for more options of other ways to improve bone health.
Where would you recommend for those with low parathyroid get their calcium from. I'm stage 3 renal failure so trying to watch my levels. What's best absorbed. Food vs pills. Im 71.
Also. What are your thoughts of treating osteoporosis using bio-identical hormones ?
Hi Patricia,
Food is almost universally a better way to absorb nutrients than supplements.
BHRT has many benefits and each component directly impacts bone turnover for the better. Only estrogen is FDA approved to treat osteoporosis. We use BHRT to manage symptoms and goals for our patients. Their bones get better too.
@@Dr_DougLucas There is a lot of confusion over whether or not progesterone helps to build bone. I personally believe that it does, but some doctors are insisting that no, it doesn't.
My doctor says he wants me to take 1500 mg of calcium each day plus 1000 mg of vit D. In addition he wants me to take Alendionate 1 time a week. I already take 5000 mg vit D daily and eat lots of cheese daily. He told me to drop vit D to 5 k from 7 k last year. I don't want to take the bone medicine because it is recommended to stop after 3-5 years. Then what? Am I supposed to die the next year? I am 79 and intend to live more than five more years. I eat a great deal of cheese and have taken vit D for years. I have ordered the calcium you recommended in another video but have declined the bone medicine. Also I have restarted the weight lifting program I stopped because of back problems a year ago, Maybe it isn't enough, but at least my jaw won't rot away.
Thank you so much for sharing all of this. It sounds like you could benefit from the next free Bone Foundations Masterclass we have coming up if you have not attended one before. You can find more information here -->www.optimalhumanhealth.com/build-bone
I saw where you had said you are presently taking OsteoPrev. That product has not been approved in Canada so i can't buy it here. Can you suggest a good alternative while we wait for the Canadian approval?
Tough one. I don't know what is approved in CA. What about Jarrow products?
Is the calcium is supplement with the same calcium that ends up building in my arteries
Great question! Checkout our health span nation if you have not yet, you get exclusive access to me and a community of people pursuing health and longevity. These are things that we discuss in there and it allows us to go into detail rather than doing short chats through this platform. You can find more information here --> www.drdouglucas.com/healthspan
Thank you.
You're welcome!
sooo my bone scan shows 'calcium deposits' in my arteries... no explanation as to : is my body leaching calcium FROM my bones ? .. & why ?... . Is my body NOT absorbing calcium ? ... and WHY ? .... Is my body taking calcium and depositing it into my arteries ? ... and ALSO WHY ? ... THESE ARE THE QUESTIONS that I'd like to see answered. - I am no longer taking 'calcium supplements' for fear of Depositing it into my Arteries .
Hi There. Great questions and totally understandable concerns. Remember that arterial calcification is a common occurrence with aging and not always or likely even frequency related to calcium supplementation. However, too much calcium can be harmful. We use a measure and replace if necessary approach utilizing dietary logging of food and supplementation based on a custom target depending on history and goals.
For myself I know I can't get enough calcium through diet alone I do take calcium but with other vitamins and minerals but I do my best to get nutrition from diet and plenty of protein and healthy fats, but when it comes to calcium from diet which is better? calcium from animal foods or calcium from plant foods?
Depends on the products you are consuming and with what combination of foods. Dairy is well absorbed. Plant calciums can be well absorbed if not combined with antinutrients like oxalates. Working with a dietician who can separate these things out is really helpful.
My name is Annemarie, I suffer from severe stenosis, I have osteoarthritis in my whole spine, compression, thanks 🙏
I'm sorry to hear that. I hope you have a team helping you to create a comprehensive plan to improve your bone health.
Did any of these studies consider activity/exercise levels?
They controlled for activity but did not include it in the intervention.
I would rather chew some beef bones than taking supplements. Anyway, after breast cancer treatments, my doc. wants me to take calcium and Vitamin D supplements...I am a carnivore and eat lots of meat, and some dairy. So I don't really worry about calcium, but Vd is difficult because even in summer, we don't get much sunshine and I do eat some anchovies, salmon and sardines. Taking plenty of pills is never a solution for me. I am still able to do HIIT, lifting, yoga and pilates and walk 12-15km daily....I wonder if those are the good signs that my bones are actually okay at age of 51? Or do I really have to do some tests to find out?
Hello,
I always encourage testing. How we feel is a good subjective measure but should always be paired with objective data because we often can't feel deficiencies until damage has been done!
@@Dr_DougLucas Thanks, Dr. Dough. I have another question. Is DEXA the only way to test for osteoporosis or any blood test would be okay too?
@@angiesrecipes DEXA is the most common way to screen and update bone density but other options include REMS, an ultrasound study as well as blood tests for bone turnover markers. I have a video on this which you can find if you search dr doug lucas bone tests.
@@Dr_DougLucas Thanks, Dr. Doug. I found it.
This is as clear as mud . I’m no further forward watching this video. 😂
Sorry you don't feel further along. Our goal is to educate. Perhaps you need more direction. Consider our free master class as a next step. Link in the description of the videos.
Is 1 tea spoon of calcium made from eggs shells, enough calcium for osteopenia?
I have looked that up. There is a lot of calcium in egg shells! It’s mostly carbonate so it’s not well absorbed but it’s natural!
My dr. Recommend me to take 1250 mg calcium after I took test for my bone density.
Hopefully the meant 1250mg in total including diet! Often isn't clear but that's what the US recommendations are (actually 1,200mg).
You are right, there are a lot of information out there and a lot of them are misinformation. You said protein an important building block to building stronger bone in another video, may I ask, if consumption of protein is not up to the mark of daily requirement, should one take protein powder? Thank you doctor.
You should ask yourself why your protein consumption isn't up to the mark. Are you eating other things that are making you full, but are not really essential (fiber comes to mind)? If you don't eat much, stick to the essentials: protein and fat.
@@wocket42 actually the question is for my mom who's in depression now following a fall last year which fractured her spine and suddenly her personality changed. Refused to eat much meat because she says it's hard to chew, hates eggs, yoghurt, refuses seafood, basically a lot of the good stuff she was eating before her fall. No one can force her to eat what she doesn't want to eat at this point of her funk. So just asking about protein powder.
Hello,
Sorry to hear about your mom. That is a tough situation. @wocket42's approach is valid though. Focus on the important things if possible. Having seen many patients go through this though I know these are the first things to go. Perhaps discuss depression management with her team. That seems like the underlying issue. She has to want to fight to continue on.
Oh, and protein powder? Sure. Many of our patients do. We use whey powders for those that can tolerate it and beef isolate (my favorite) for those that can't. Favorite companies are Kion and Equipe respectively.
@@Dr_DougLucas Definitely. It's been going on for 1 year now and she has seen 4 psychiatrist, all couldn't help her out of her depression. She chose to sink deeper. She's willing to exercise but grudgingly with a sour face but refused to eat anything she thinks is hard, which of course is meat and even hard boil eggs to her is ridiculously tough. So I was thinking of sneaking protein powder into her drink but needed to know if it's actually safe. She's 78. Thanks for your confirmation and answer on the protein powder below. I will do my research on them and discuss with my brother. Many thanks again!!
Hi, Thank you for the video. I was reading the risk of MCHC on one of the manufacturer's labels. This label said if you had ever had an estrogen receptor positive breast cancer to not take microcrystalline hydroxyapatite. Any thoughts? Thanks
Only reason I can think of would be, that they contain growth factors, which I suppose in theory could increase the risk of recurrent cancer. I mean this is likely more of a CYA statement than based on any real data.
I had sewere back pain on exeertion or standing for 1 or 2 hrs. My Dr recommended to take vit D and ca supplements. Even though I told him that I already having stones. Now after 5 months the no. of stones is increased and sr. Ca levels are also little higher and the backpain is even more worsen on exertion. What should I do...should I do dexa scan /are my bones not absorbing calcium?
Hi there. Lots of factors in this equation! To answer this question would require an in depth look at labs, history and imaging. You could consider our additional resources in the description of the videos or a full service program to really get to the bottom of the issue.
I hear that vitamin C is another important nutrient to help bone.
Indeed! Vitamin C is involved in collagen production. This one is generally easy to get through diet though!
So how does the government regulate the course of calcium in the supplements when in fact there is no real regulation.Have CAC test done will tell you if you have calcium in you bloodstream and where it's supposed to be going not causing deposits in other organs which would be catastrophic. Also the need for vitamin K2 to direct it to the bones.Just taking calcium because your doctor told you to is ridiculous
Checkout our health span nation if you have not yet, you get exclusive access to me and a community of people pursuing health and longevity. These are things that we discuss in there and it allows us to go into detail rather than doing short chats through this platform. You can find more information here --> www.drdouglucas.com/healthspan
What happens if you take a high dose of calcium every day and live a sedentary lifestyle? Will that affect your thyroid?
Not sure the direct impact on the thyroid but we don't recommend high doses of calcium to any of our patients and a sedentary lifestyle has negative consequences on it's own.
@@Dr_DougLucas Thank you for your answer.
We now know that osteoporosis is not calcium deficiency.Deficiency in b12 folate .Sensitivity to gluten
Those are risk factors, yes, but there are many more.
What does current studies say for pregnant women and calcium? Is supplementation still beneficial? Thanks doc
Pregnant women are always difficult to study because of the high cost of risk with a fetus. I would ask your OBGYN for the most up to date information,.
@@Dr_DougLucas She not updated so that's why I'm researching on my own. So far, I think it's best to get calcium all from food instead of risking the calcification, kidney stones and throwing your other minerals out of balance.
All these videos on TH-cam ALL offering different supplements and dosing to😮 prevent diseases, conditions, IS VERY CONFUSING. My best advice, ask your own doctor what vitamins you need. And have him/her prescribe them, since there are so many supplements out there and different dosing, and you don't really know what you are really buying. Best of health!
Thank you for sharing this. Yes, everyones health journey is different!
Great video. Is almond milk which is fortified with calcium considered a calcium supplement, or calcium through diet?
Hmmmm, I look at it as a supplemental form. Almonds do not contain calcium naturally so Ca has to be added to almond milk. This is typically done as a calcium salt which is not as well absorbed as MCHC or OHC calciums. Additionally, although reduced from processing almond milk still contains oxalates which will bind to calcium and limit absorption.
Thank you Dr Lucas
@@user-wb3uo4cd7d My pleasure!
Is the 12 000 mg calcium the gross or elemental level which may be too high (depending)? In South Africa my supplement is 1300mg calcium carbonate to 500mg elemental calcium. I have osteoporosis but also high cholesterol so worried about my heart. I don’t see CAC on my blood test but do have reduced glomerular filtration (73L) and worried about loading my body with supplements.
Checkout our masterclass or healthspan nation if you have not. We are able answer more specific questions like this through those platforms. Links for both of those are in the video description :)
Is it true that calcium and magnesium supplements should not be taken together? So many supplements contain both. Should those be avoided? Thank you
It’s true that they can compete for absorption but these two are found commonly in nature together and as such commonly absorbed together. We just don’t recommend large doses of either at one time.
You're basing this on 2 very old studies. Is this really the most pertinent recent research?
My doctor told me to take at least 500 mg calcium as my bone density scan showed osteopenia. I haven't bought the calcium yet as I'm so confused with this topic. Should I take the calcium together with vitamin d3 and K2? Appreciate if you can answer my question please as i subscribed to your channel
Hello, the answer is…. It depends. Calcium taken with vitamin d and vitamin k should not be dangerous BUT we have our patients check how much calcium they are getting in diet and only supplement if needed.
@@Dr_DougLucas thank you 👍🏻
Thank you for your support!@@vbartrum9172
Listened to an interview regarding the study/use of MK4 K2 in Japan at high dose 45mg/day which reduced fractures. Thoughts on incorporating 45 mg MK4 K2 each day?
MK4 has a short half life and less impact on OsteoCalcin than MK7. OsteoCalcin is the mechanism that Vitamin K utilizes to impact osteoblasts and bone health. I believe that MK4 is good but I think MK7 is better.
@@Dr_DougLucas the same presenter said that while there is alot of data from Japan with MK4 there is no fracture data wiht MK7 and MK7 was much cheaper--? How much MK7 do you recommend? Is it anywhere near the 45 mg used in Japan. Seems like supplements are much lower doses than what was used in Japan. Is Japan still using the 45 mg of MK4 as their treatment of choice?
@@selma5885 We use a product with 300 mcg of MK7. That's 0.3mg but you can't compare apples to apples with the two in dosing. I'm not familiar with what they are doing in Japan!
Can you grow bone in menopause ( 6 years in for me) without HRT? i.e. through exercise/supplements? If so what calcium target do you recommend for women in early 60's in menopause since age 55 or so? My obgyn is not in favor of HRT.
Hello,
Perhaps a second opinion on HRT is in order. OBGYNs in general only use HRT for symptoms of menopause (as approved by the FDA) and usually overlook other proven health benefits. There is always a risk benefit discussion but we look at hormones differently.
Can bone be improved without them? Sure, but they are powerful tools when available.
I'm just a regular 67yo female but ALL information I have read says that weight-bearing exercises like brisk walking is a great way to atleast, in my own experience, to maintain if not gain bone density.
Walking up an incline of any kind adds power to that exercise. My own diagnosis of Osteopenia has remained stable for the past several years because that is my regular routine.
Walking also helps relieve depression. I only had to stop many years before that because I was taking muscle relaxants for severe migraines. But no more.
@@andreah6379 I walked most day 2M hilly walk for 30 years and was just diagnosed with osteoporosis at age 61. I've also done yoga the past 12 years.
12:59. Summary starts here.
Hi Maria,
I'd like for people to view the whole video to understand the concepts and details. Please don't do this.
So, a local Functional Medicine MD held a talk about osteoporosis and said that dairy actually CAUSES osteoporosis!😮
Thank you for sharing this!
Love it!
Thank you for watching!
Where does strontium come into play?
Hi there! Check out my video on strontium here: th-cam.com/video/l11S7vpXzOU/w-d-xo.html
Since calcium supplements may not have any benefit, but seem to be related to heart disease, why would you prescribe those, but not Raloxifene, which has many positive effects, but only one negative?
I'm 61, diagnosed at 38 (my sister at 35), had various doctors managing this over the years, and NOT. A. SINGLE. ONE. ever asked WHY! WHY?? HOW did this happen? Finally I started complaining that we were only treating symptoms, and never figured out how I was in this position in the first place, after a lifetime as a milk lover. My endo tested me for OI, which was neg, and then just dropped the issue.
You are the exception to the almost universal rule, but most doctors wait till you have a disease, then give you a pill. In my case, it was a pill, and then daily shots, and then q6mo Prolia--while failing to inform me that you can't get off of the stuff, but you can't stay on it either. I was never even THAT bad! Just barely into -porotic territory. Also have lupus, asthma, thyroid masses, prediabetes even tho underweight and on low carb, and probably Ehler's Danlos (the stretchy one). Still very active and appear healthy. I WANT TO GET OFF PROLIA.
Thanks for sharing. I feel your frustration and know you’re not alone. Getting off Prolia and not onto Reclast requires a comprehensive plan and probably isn’t a realistic goal for some.
What about those with hypocalcemia?
Question is why would someone have hypocalcemia? Calcium supplementation is an option in the right circumstance.
@@Dr_DougLucas
22q11.2 deletion syndrome