A patient’s bone health is very important to Dr. Ingalls. If necessary, a bone density screening, known as a DEXA, will be done to evaluate the structural integrity of bone.

Osteoporosis is severe bone loss and Osteopenia is less severe loss. Diligent attention may reverse the condition without prescription medication. Therapies include diet, exercise, vitamin supplementation, and if needed, hormone replacement or prescription medication. Lab evaluation usually includes Vitamin D, calcium, metabolic panel, inorganic phosphorus, parathyroid hormone, thyroid studies, and urine N-telopeptide.

Risk factors for bone loss include gender (more common in women), family history, ethnicity. estrogen loss, testosterone loss, elevated cortisol, sedentary lifestyle, smoking, excessive alcohol, and poor diet.

Diet: The consumption of fresh fruits, vegetables, wholegrain, protein and calcium-rich food is important. Dried plumb is thought to be helpful. Soda should be avoided. The phosphate in soda binds calcium which prevents restorative bone growth.

Exercise: Daily weight-bearing exercise is necessary to build bone and prevent loss. Research the types of weight bearing exercises such as walking with a weighted vest, pilates, and yoga. Maintaining solid muscle mass by light weight training is essential. Improving balance will prevent falls.

Supplements: Vitamin D improves absorption of calcium into the system. The amount recommended is based on need. Calcium intake should be 1000-12000mg per day. Calcium from food as opposed to a supplement is best absorbed by the body.

Research foods high in calcium. Dairy products are high in calcium. Fat-free products are not recommended. One cup of plain whole Greek yoghurt provides 450mg of calcium. If a supplement is used the dose is 500mg with food twice a day. There are many other vitamins and minerals, along with calcium and Vitamin D, that promote bone growth. Investigate the ingredients in AlgaeCalPlus, a complete bone supplement. Dr. Ingalls has seen osteoporosis improve with consistent use of AlgaeCal supplements including AlgaeCal, AlgaeCal Plus, AlgaeCal Collagen, and strontium.

Hormone Replacement: Hormone loss in women and men causes bone loss. Women have a more dramatic decrease in their estrogen and bone mass at the time of their menopause. Men’s testosterone and bone mass diminish gradually as they age. Hormone therapy assists in the growth of bone. Estrogen prevents bone loss. Testosterone and progesterone actually build bone.

Rest assured that Dr. Ingalls will address your bone health and follow your progress.