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Calcium and magnesium can (and should) be taken together in the appropriate ratio (this is crucial). They work synergistically in a calcium-to-magnesium ratio of 2:1. The Bone Up product I looked at has them in the appropriate ratio. It also has d3, k2, boron, and more.
If you take calcium and magnesium as separate supplements, make sure the dosage is 2:1 or don't take them at the same time. So if your calcium dosage is 500mg, your magnesium dosage should be 250mg.
Also keep in mind that the body doesn't absorb more than about 500mg of calcium at one time so you shouldn't take more than that at one time. Dosages should be divided up at different times of day. Bone Up divides it up for you, probably others do too, I didn't look.
About calcium absorption: Calcium carbonate should be taken with a meal because it dissolves best with acid. Calcium citrate can be taken on an empty stomach because it doesn't need acid to dissolve.
Western diets are sorely lacking in magnesium, and the test for low magnesium only indicates the lack when someone is almost at death's door. OTOH, those same diets can be high in calcium from dairy products, veggies and other sources.
For years, the thinking on osteoporosis was a simplistic "Not enough calcium in the bones? Ingest more calcium!" The size of some of the horse pills was ridiculous. Worse, high calcium exacerbates heart conditions and three guesses what a high "calcium score" in a CAT scan indicates as a serious problem?
My wife bought into the take more calcium for quite a while, until it was obvious that the negative effects were greater than any benefit. At that point she moderated intake and I began making a fortified yogurt that was better tolerated.
Back years ago I did research on magnesium, which is the mineral some of you are noting. I found reports that in a stress situation, the body will shed magnesium first, and only then, once that has been exhausted, will it shed significant calcium. Yes, the same channels are in play, and the balance in the body is important.
Of and on for years, I have taken a magnesium asporotate capsule at night and after strenuous exercise. My calcium score is zero and my bones are in good shape. Obviously that is anecdotal evidence, but you may find similar correlations in your own research.
You can tell if your magnesium intake is too high by the looseness of your stools. Overdosing is pretty difficult.
You can tell if your magnesium intake is too high by the looseness of your stools. Overdosing is pretty difficult.
This would completely depend on the type and amount of magnesium you're taking. Mg carbonate, chloride, hydroxide, oxide, and sulfate all have a laxative effect at typical doses.
This would completely depend on the type and amount of magnesium you're taking. Mg carbonate, chloride, hydroxide, oxide, and sulfate all have a laxative effect at typical doses.
They do, and you are correct. That is why I mentioned using a single capsule of magnesium asporotate, which has lass of an effect. Magnesium citrate is commonly used as an extreme laxative.
I use Bone Up. For magnesium there IS an accurate test, at least there was twenty years ago when I had a wonderful dr who really tested for it even back then. It was called the magnesium loading test. They injected me with magnesium and for 24 hours I had to pee into a container. Then they checked the urine for magnesium. I was severely lacking even with the injection.
Another alternative style doctor repeated the procedure several years later and same results no matter how much magnesium I take. Something's wrong but they don't know what it is. I just keep taking Bone Up and a good magnesium supplement along with it and hope for the best. I can tell when I'm getting low in magnesium if I start feeling shaky.
In addition to serum tests, there are also tests that can test for a specific nutrient within cells. These are considered more indicative of how much of a nutrient is actually getting into the cells. They use the red blood cells (RBC).
You can get tests yourself if you don't mind paying out of pocket for them. There are a number of companies that will give you a doctor's order that you can take to LabCorp or Quest for the blood draw.
In addition to serum tests, there are also tests that can test for a specific nutrient within cells. These are considered more indicative of how much of a nutrient is actually getting into the cells. They use the red blood cells (RBC).
You can get tests yourself if you don't mind paying out of pocket for them. There are a number of companies that will give you a doctor's order that you can take to LabCorp or Quest for the blood draw.
Getting tests yourself is a great option. I did that before I started Medicare. Very affordable and quick results. I'm looking at different testing options now, blood work, genetic, bone markers and redoing the Dexa scan.
Weight bearing exercise is beneficial for increasing bone strength - that goes for people with or without osteporosis. Obviously as with any exercise, you need to work safely and within your limits. But exercise increases bone density. Walking and yoga are examples of low impact exercise.
Exercise and following an anti-inflammatory way of eating (lots of good info on the net if you search) have both significantly lessened my pain from arthritis in hips and knees.
I have a flare-up if I deviate too much from the eating plan...for me my biggest trigger food seems to be anything made from white, processed flour...
Hi,
I am a holistic nutritionist and have been doing research on the topic of osteo for a while now. I do agree with many of the information/advice shared here. Also the best information that I found is from B. Taylor (MenopauseTaylor) retired MD on YouTube (she explains pros and cons of most options available. Here is a link https://www.youtube.com/@MenopauseTaylor
This is her website: https://menopausetaylor.me/
NOTE: She also offers consults for a fee. Pls refer to her website
YouTube - Start at video number 218 and go to 229 for osteo and related information. Her other videos are very informative also.
All the best to you and your mother.
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