Holistic Treatments for Osteoporosis

Osteoporosis is a degenerative bone disease that commonly appears in postmenopausal women. Conventional treatments include steroids, anti-inflammatory medications and large amounts of calcium. Holistic treatments address the entire body and focus on improving overall health.

Types

• Holistic treatment options for osteoporosis include dietary and lifestyle changes, along with taking supplements and herbs.

Prevention/solution

• A diet for preventing or reducing osteoporosis should center around fruits and vegetables. Foods high in calcium, such as kale, bok choy, chickpeas, black-eyed peas and escarole help prevent osteoporosis.

Considerations

• Highly acidic foods, such as lemon juice, pickles and tomatoes, can help the body better absorb calcium. Daily, gentle exercise, such as walking, is also beneficial.

Vitamin D

• Spend time in the sun without sunscreen to boost Vitamin D levels. Optimal Vitamin D production results in better calcium absorption.

Effects

• Supplements and herbs such as ipriflavone, calcium, Vitamin K, black cohosh, omega-3 fatty acids, red clover, wild yam and zinc can increase the body's production of new bone cells and keep bones stronger longer.