OSTEOPOROSIS, when our bones start to crumble...
It is astounding to note that in the richest western countries where we consume two to three times more calories than we really need and ought to, we are also seeing the highest mineral deficiency rates, particularly as far as the body's most important basic element is concerned: Calcium. Also surprising is the statistical evidence that, Asian countries have the lowest fracture rates, even when it comes to elderly women, who are the ones most at risk. In our countries, one in four post menopausal women suffer from osteoporosis, as does one in eight men of ripe old age. Hospital treatments, which are necessary as a consequence of such severe Calcium deficiency, cost Canada1.3 billion dollars each year. Which are the types of major fractures caused by such a devastating deficiency?
The worst irritants connected with our lifestyle, which is becoming more and more artificial, have been targeted as the excessive intake of: animal proteins, denatured milk, refined sugar, caffeine and carbonated soft drinks, saturated with de-mineralizing phosphoric acid. These are the major culprits, responsible for the reduction of Calcium and other minerals in our bodies. Furthermore, the chemical contamination of the soil by the major agro-industrial powers has leached precious minerals associated with Calcium, especially from vegetables. Normally, Magnesium, Manganese, Potassium, Silica, Fluor and Zinc are naturally present in vegetables and legumes, when they are organically grown. Other than the aforementioned minerals, which need to be present in order for Calcium to be absorbed well, vitamins A and D must also be present, either in the meal or by way of supplementation. There is scientific evidence that, other irritants, such as antacids, laxatives, certain anti-inflammatory drugs and excessive use of Cortisone speed-up the leakage of Calcium. Lack of exposure to the sun and lack of exercise, multiple pregnancies and certain digestive and hormonal imbalances add further risk to osteoporosis. However, there are a multitude of solutions to offset and even to solve this terrible deficiency problem called osteoporosis, even at age 70 and older.
If one suffers from severe, diagnosed osteoporosis, it is essential to choose the best supplements available on the market: Coral Calcium, liquid form and supplements prepared from different forms of Calcium and its co-factors are by far the best. Ask the advice of a doctor, Naturopath or other qualified health care professional, who is trained in vitamin therapy and take your 500 mg Calcium supplements twice or three times per day, after breakfast and supper for example, preferably in soluble form, especially if you have a sensitive digestive system or problems with acidity.
Plants which are rich in available Calcium are also beneficial in fighting demineralization, excess acidity and even nervousness and palpitations, which can be the cause of Calcium deficiency. Oat straw, Bamboo, Chamomile, Wheat grass, Raspberry, Alfalfa, Nettle and Horsetail are the most accessible and alkalizing vegetables. Among the best sources of Calcium and its allies we find almonds, sesame seeds, algae, cabbage, beans and all derivatives from Soya, as well as chickpeas, milk products from trusted sources and small salt water fish.
As would be the case with many other hyperacidity-related illnesses, we must avoid excessive stress and worry, anger and all types of repetitive thinking, which can wear away at the inside and we need to force ourselves to think happy thoughts, find balance and peace. Exercising in the outdoors for at least 30 minutes four times a week, with the skin exposed, temperature permitting, will reduce the risk of osteoporosis by 50% after age 50. It is said that osteoporosis is "a childhood affliction with after-effects into old age", in that heredity as well as nutrition during childhood play a major role. Thanks to nature combined with science, help is at hand!
A popular Greek saying is that "Excess is when too much of a good thing turns into a lack of something else".
Anny Schneider
Herbalist and Naturopath
