Thoughts on Bisphosphonates

[Sangye]

Germaine, it's impossible for me to tell if you need actonel at this point. My suggestions are aimed at younger people whose bones are in good shape, and are being given bisphosphonates "proactively." If you already have osteoporosis, you have to make the decision with your doctor. It may be unavoidable.

I would suggest getting a vitamin D level checked in your blood work. Most people take way too little vitamin D and it's even more crucial to your bone density than calcium. I get mine checked on a regular basis. To give you a reference point, I'm taking 8,000 IU vitamin D of an excellent quality brand (ie not OTC).

Cheese (and other dairy) is not a great way to absorb calcium. Look up calcium-rich veggies and load yourself up with them on a daily basis. They also happen to be anti-cancer foods.

Finally, if you are able to do any weight-bearing exercises that's the best way to build and maintain bone density. You can also find info on this online. As a chiropractor I used to tell my patients "Keep moving and use your body." Carry groceries, stand up to fold laundry, etc...

[pberggren1]

Sangye, is Carlson a good brand of Vitamin D and Cod Liver Oil and other supplements?

[Sangye]

Phil, I don't recommend taking cod liver oil (any brand) on a regular basis. It's too high in vitamin A, which boosts the immune system. Even for a non-Weggie, it's easy to get too much vitamin A using cod liver oil. A non-Weggie could take it a few times a week and be fine.

It's much better to take regular fish oil supplements, which use the body of the fish and not the liver.

I don't consider Carlson to be a good source of either. It's an OTC brand and doesn't have the same standards as those sold by health care professionals. Until you can get to a holistic doc, I suggest you continue taking the vitamin D, though. Ask your doc to measure your blood levels so you can determine how much to take.

[Sangye]

News on bisphosphonates today:
Bone drugs may cause fractures, FDA warns – The Chart - CNN.com Blogs

[elephant]

Thanks for the info Sangye. I have been bothered by both my WG specialist and Rheumy to take the bisphosphonates , but I only have oestopenia. I refuse to take it. I actually felt worse taking it my face sinuses felt worse.

[Jack]

Thanks Sangye, I'll add it to the list of side effects that I can do nothing to avoid.

[Sangye]

I'm sorry, Jack. I know how frustrating it is to have things like that. But like any of the other risks we live with, this isn't guaranteed to happen. You don't dwell on the other things, so hopefully you can put this one in the same mental filing cabinet.