The Causes of Osteoporosis

Is milk essential for bone health? Thanks to impartial research conducted by scientists free from financial incentives, many so-called 'foods'—often influenced by geographical and societal factors—such as processed sugar, meat & other industry-driven products including GMO corn & glyphosate-treated wheat items, dairy is no longer deemed a necessary component of our diet. However, don't let the nostalgic charm of cookies-&-cream advertising hinder progress in debunking outdated dietary myths.

With the ongoing dairy debates & an increasing number of individuals embracing a plant-based lifestyle, government-supported industries are ramping up their advertising efforts—shaming the public into consuming milk as if choosing a more compassionate, sustainable path makes us any less human.

The Role of Advertising and Industry Pressure

Advertising plays a significant role in shaping public perception about dairy consumption. The dairy industry, backed by aggressive marketing campaigns, has perpetuated the myth that dairy is essential for health. This pressure is not just limited to advertising; it extends to the pharmaceutical industry as well. Many medications and supplements are marketed as solutions for conditions often linked to dairy consumption, further entrenching the narrative that dairy is necessary for health & vitality.

Misguided Nutritional Advice

Additionally, nutritional advice from doctors and educators often lacks a solid foundation in dietary science. Many professionals, without specialized education in nutrition, promote dairy as a vital source of calcium and other nutrients. This guidance, while well-intentioned, overlooks the dietary practices of numerous indigenous populations who thrived without dairy. Cultures such as the Australian Aboriginals, various Asian and African nations, and South American communities historically did not consume dairy products, yet maintained robust health.

The Irony of Osteoporosis Epidemic

Despite the high consumption of dairy in modern civilization, health issues like osteoporosis and tooth decay are at alarming rates, affecting over 50% of the adult population, including younger individuals. This paradox raises critical questions about the efficacy of dairy as a health staple.

Flawed Medical Advice

When faced with bone density issues, many individuals receive prescriptions for unnecessary supplements or medications that carry serious side effects, including risks of cancer or neurological damage. The common recommendation of weight-bearing exercises as a remedy is often oversimplified and does not address the root causes of bone health issues. While these suggestions may be backed by some scientific research, they fail to consider the broader context of dietary impacts on health.

Taking a nutrient in high doses in isolation is not only risky but also causes significant imbalances, which can lead to more serious issues over time. The public should be aware that those promoting their success with "caltrate" or "calcium/vitamin D" supplements are simply actors. It's a paid role, and for actors, singers, and athletes working in an industry with nearly 90% unemployment, it's just a job—they don't care about the consequences for you once you believe the marketing.

It's unfortunate but true. It is important to understand that calcium is one of the most accessible nutrients globally, found in nearly all whole foods. If you opt for junk food instead of nutritious options, that's a personal choice. Using a supplement that isn't derived from whole food won't solve the issue. Recently, someone proudly told me they don't eat vegetables, with the kind of pride you'd expect from a child who has just learned their ABCs or a new university graduate.

This truth needs to be widely acknowledged: would you expect to get all the necessary nutrients if you consumed a human or drank human breast milk? It sounds absurd, doesn't it? Well, the nutritional value of meat and dairy from one animal is no better than that from another. It's simply a matter of how each species is marketed by its respective industry. The right amounts of perfect calcium, along with all other nutrients, are already present in fresh food.

Functions of Calcium

Calcium plays a crucial role in numerous physiological functions, including:

• Formation and maintenance of strong teeth and bones

• Facilitation of nerve function

• Regulation of muscle contractions

• Involvement in blood clotting processes

The Importance of a Balanced Nutritional Approach

It is essential to recognise that calcium does not operate in isolation. A deficiency in other vital nutrients can impede the effectiveness of calcium. For instance, relying solely on calcium supplementation without considering other dietary components may lead to inadequate nutrient absorption and utilisation. This scenario can be likened to a vehicle that requires a combination of water, fuel, and oil to function optimally. Pouring only water into a car's systems would not yield satisfactory performance; similarly, the human body requires a holistic approach to nutrition for proper functioning.

Consequences of Excessive Calcium Intake

Excessive calcium intake, particularly through supplementation, can lead to several health issues, including:

• Poor bone development and maintenance

• Tetany (muscle spasms and cramps)

• Increased nerve activity

• Poor circulation, resulting in tingling sensations in the hands and feet

Concerns Regarding Dairy as a Calcium Source

It is important to note that dairy products are often considered a primary source of calcium; however, there are growing concerns about their overall health implications. Some arguments against dairy as a calcium source include:

• The potential for dairy to be detrimental to health

• Reliance on flawed studies funded by industry interests

• The promotion of excessive dairy consumption, such as recommending a cube of cheese, a tub of yogurt, or a bowl of cereal daily for for children, for an adequate calcium intake

Understanding Calcium Assimilation from Dairy Products

(Which those responsible hope you never know. After all, they have been able to get away with it until now). The calcium found in dairy products is often not readily assimilable by humans. This means that the calcium is biologically tailored for the species it was designed for—namely, calves. It is worth noting that many calves do not survive beyond a few days after birth, a situation that raises ethical considerations regarding dairy consumption. However, this discussion is not intended to delve into ethical debates.

The Complexity of Nutritional Needs for Bone Health

It's important to recognize that our bones require more than just calcium and vitamin D for optimal health. Even if one were to consume an excessive amount of vitamins daily, the effectiveness of these nutrients would be severely compromised if the body's pH level is acidic. Therefore, maintaining a balanced internal environment is crucial for the proper utilization of essential nutrients.

Magnesium deficiency is particularly concerning because it can lead to soft bones and calcium deposits in your muscles and blood vessels. Indeed, plaque in your blood is initially caused by these calcium deposits, which attract fats, toxins, and other waste. Vitamin D works synergistically with calcium, meaning it won't function properly without it—and it's free! So, what should we do?

The Impact of Sun Safety Campaigns

Thanks to the late 70s campaign of slip, slop and slap, generations have been born and had babies with far weaker bones than our forbears.

The Shift from Natural to Synthetic

Instead of enjoying the sunlight, we opt to live like vampires and consume a synthetic version of Vitamin D, which our doctors, who lack training in nutrition or supplementation, recommend. Besides, the goalposts have been moved. What were once considered adequate RDAs of nutrients such as calcium, iron, vitamin D and folate, are each now deemed deficient.

Concerns About Excessive Calcium

And what about excessive calcium? When consumed from artificial sources, it can lead to soft tissue calcification—such as rheumatism, rheumatoid arthritis, gout, tumors, and even stomach cancer—as the body struggles to process and eliminate the excess. And when x-rays reveal calcium tablet deposits throughout a patient's bowel? Naturally, naturopathy receives criticism (despite being unrelated), and your conscientious doctor will prescribe another drug to help break down the calcium.

Your bone calcium levels won't rise by taking these tablets. In reality, individuals taking these supplements are still shown to experience bone softening, known as osteoporosis. However, you'll have a misguided sense of security because it's now being 'monitored.' And the synthetic form of vitamin D isn't genuine D. In fact, skin cancer rates are rising due to insufficient vitamin D, along with a rise in asthma & depression, which are all associated with low D levels.

No, there isn't a magic solution—it's all about doing what we're meant to do: eat well.

What steps can you take?

Promoting Optimal Health

Maintaining a balanced diet is crucial for overall health. It is essential to work towards achieving a neutral body pH, as this can significantly impact your health. Additionally, increasing your exposure to sunlight is vital. Even if you prefer to sit in the shade, it is important to avoid excessive use of sunblock, hats, and long sleeves that may hinder your body’s ability to absorb beneficial sunlight.

Most are unaware that over 90% of the beneficial rays responsible for vitamin D synthesis are absorbed through the eyes. To facilitate this process, it is recommended to spend at least 15 minutes a day in direct sunlight. However, wearing sunglasses immediately upon stepping outdoors can obstruct this essential absorption. Prioritising these practices can greatly enhance your health and well-being.

Your doctor and pharmacist may inform you that there are no studies on natural medicines, which is why they are not endorsed or promoted; they might consider it dangerous to rely on such advice. However, there are actually more studies on alternative treatments than you could imagine, but their results are often not valued by traditional medicine. Moreover, when something is eventually 'proven,' it is the scientists who receive the recognition, rather than those who had already demonstrated its effectiveness.

Here is an article based on one such study – proving diet and alkalinity is the only way to prevent bone weakening. Indeed, other research indicates that certain actions can enhance bone density. For instance, daily application of wild yam cream can help draw calcium and other minerals from soft tissues back into the bones. Similarly, Himalayan salt can balance electrolytes and micronutrients, reducing high sodium levels in the bones and replacing them with harder minerals. However, if you are truly concerned about your health and that of your family, proactive measures are essential. Relying solely on your doctor to address issues after they arise is counterproductive. The reality is that many elderly individuals currently taking Caltrate or other high-calcium supplements continue to suffer from osteoporosis and will likely do so for the rest of their lives. In pain.

This is not to suggest that supplementation is unnecessary. However, it is crucial to seek supplementation advice from someone who is genuinely qualified and experienced in orthomolecular medicine and health. This does not include university-trained 'nutritionists' who are influenced by the meat, dairy, wheat, sugar, and pharmaceutical industries. All of your food should be considered as supplementation—anything lacking in nutrients should be regarded as foreign to your body and consumed sparingly, rather than regularly. From your beverages to your snacks and meals, everything should be highly nutritious.

Key Foods & Nutrients That Improve Bone Density

Magnesium is needed to:

• convert vitamin D → active D

• activate osteoblasts

• regulate parathyroid hormone

• reduce inflammation

Sources:

• Pumpkin seeds

• Almonds & almond butter

• Tahini

• Cacao / cocoa

• Black beans, chickpeas, lentils

• Dark leafy greens

• Buckwheat

• Tofu & tempeh

• Sea vegetables (kelp, dulse)

• 
  

Vitamin K2 (directs calcium INTO bones, not arteries)

K2 is absolutely essential and is the missing nutrient in most diets — but food sources DO exist:

• Natto (fermented soy — the highest K2 food),

• Fermented vegetables using K2-producing cultures (some kimchi, sauerkraut varieties)

  
  

Silica (collagen matrix formation)

Silica strengthens the scaffolding inside bone.

• Cucumber (with skin)

• Oats (whole, not instant)

• Millet

• Bamboo shoots

• Mineral waters containing silica

• Nettle leaf tea

• Horsetail herb tea

Boron (reduces calcium excretion / improves vitamin D metabolism)

Sources:

• Prunes

• Raisins

• Dates

• Avocado

• Apples

• Almonds

• Leafy greens

Plant-based calcium (best absorbed when balanced with magnesium & K2)

Plant calcium is structurally different, contains co-factors, and doesn’t calcify arteries.

Best calcium foods:

• Tahini

• Almonds

• Kale

• Collard greens

• Bok choy

• Broccoli

• Tofu (especially if calcium-set)

• Sesame seeds

• Blackstrap molasses

Protein for collagen + bone matrix

Protein sources that also support bone formation:

• Lentils

• Chickpeas

• Tofu & tempeh

• Hemp seeds

• Chia seeds

• Pumpkin seeds

• Quinoa

• Black beans

• Pea protein (clean varieties only)

Anti-inflammatory phytonutrients (reduce osteoclast activity)

• Turmeric

• Ginger

• Berries

• Leafy greens

• Flax + chia (ALA omega-3)

• Walnuts

• Spirulina

• Seaweeds

• Green tea

• Tart cherry juice

Inflammation accelerates bone loss — lowering it is essential.

Vitamin D from sunlight (best, safest, naturally regulated)

10–30 min sun exposure without sunglasses depending on skin tone and latitude. Sunlight produces sulfated vitamin D that supplements cannot replicate.

✔ Lifestyle:

• Weight-bearing exercise

• Strength training

• Good sleep

• Stress reduction

• Avoiding endocrine disruptors (plastics, fragrances, pesticides)

Foods That Weaken Bones

These drive inflammation, increase calcium loss, alter hormones, or demineralise bone.

Sugar (all forms)

• Increases inflammatory cytokines

• Increases calcium excretion

• Disrupts magnesium balance

• Weakens collagen matrix

Includes white sugar, coconut sugar, syrups, agave, excess dates.

White flour & refined grains

• Cause blood sugar spikes → mineral loss

• Contain no bone nutrients

• Increase acidity → calcium is leached to buffer pH

Alcohol & caffeine excess

Both increase urinary calcium and magnesium loss.

Pharmaceuticals Known to Reduce Bone Density

Not all drugs do this — but many commonly prescribed classes are well documented to weaken bones.

Corticosteroids (prednisone, cortisone)

One of the most common causes of secondary osteoporosis. Cause massive osteoblast suppression.

Proton Pump Inhibitors (PPIs)

Nexium, omeprazole, pantoprazole.Reduce stomach acid → reduce absorption of calcium, magnesium, minerals.

SSRIs / antidepressants

Some have been associated with reduced bone mineral density and higher fracture risk.

Thyroid hormone medications

If overdosed, dramatically increases bone turnover.

Anti-seizure medications

(e.g., phenytoin, phenobarbital)Increase vitamin D breakdown → weak bones.

Aromatase inhibitors

Used in cancer therapy, they sharply lower estrogen → rapid bone loss.

Heparin

Associated with bone thinning.

Sodium valproate

Interferes with vitamin D pathways.

Natural Therapies That Support Bone Density

1. Homœopathy

Homœopathy doesn’t add minerals directly—rather, it modulates the vital response, assists tissue metabolism, and improves assimilation of nutrients while supporting endocrine harmony.

Commonly used categories:

• Calc group remedies (Calc phos, Calc fluor, Calc carb) – support assimilation, growth, connective-tissue integrity. Found in NATURA.

• Arnica, Ruta grav, Symphytum, Eupatorium perf, Ginger (Zingiber), Rhus T, Bryonia, Mag phos, Bellis peren, Hypericum – classic remedies for bone trauma and regeneration. All found in NEXUS alongside other frequency remedies to stimulate connective tissue healing.

Research: Studies exist showing enhanced bone callus formation with these remedies and improved bone turnover markers with certain mineral-focused remedies.

2. Osteopathy

Osteopathy improves structural alignment, circulation, lymphatic flow, hormonal signaling, and nerve supply—all crucial for bone metabolism.

Osteopathic manipulative treatment (OMT) has been shown to:

• Improve perfusion of bone tissue

• Reduce chronic stress activation (cortisol demineralizes bone)

• Improve posture, restoring mechanical load (bones need regular loading to maintain mass)

Mechanical load is one of the strongest drivers of osteogenesis. Osteopathy restores the biomechanical environment bones require to stay strong.

3. Chiropractic

Appropriate chiropractic care helps to:

• Improve spinal alignment, decreasing compressive load

• Reduce nervous system dysregulation, which affects endocrine balance

• Improve mobility—when you move better, you load bones better

Some chiropractors also incorporate weight-bearing rehabilitation, vibration therapy, and postural correction—all of which stimulate osteoblasts.

4. Massage Therapy

Massage supports bone health indirectly via:

• Increasing blood flow, delivering nutrients more efficiently

• Reducing chronic muscle tension → better posture → better skeletal loading

• Decreasing stress hormones (cortisol contributes to bone resorption)

Specific techniques supportive for bone health:

• Deep tissue

• Myofascial release

• Thai yoga massage

• Lymphatic drainage to reduce inflammation

5. Acupuncture

Evidence shows acupuncture helps to:

• Improve bone mineral density in osteopenia/osteoporosis

• Reduce inflammatory cytokines that accelerate bone loss

• Support hormonal balance (especially post-menopausal estrogen shifts)

• Improve blood flow to bone tissue

Research from China shows acupuncture modulates the Wnt signaling pathway, which activates osteoblasts.

6. Qi Gong & Tai Chi

Both practices are backed by strong research showing:

• Increased bone density

• Reduced fracture risk

• Improved balance → fewer falls

• Lower cortisol

Tai Chi is strongly associated with preventing age-related bone loss due to its gentle but consistent weight-bearing motions.

7. Yoga (especially with load)

Yoga increases:

• Proprioception

• Core stability

• Mechanical load on bones (through holds, balances, and isometric contractions)

Clinical research (Fishman et al.) showed that 12 minutes/day of therapeutic yoga increased bone density in hip and spine.

8. Resistance & Body-Weight Exercise

Bones require strain to grow. Natural weight-bearing improves osteoblast activity:

• Walking uphill

• Hiking

• Bodyweight training

• Weighted vests

• Resistance bands

Can be adapted for older adults, disabled people, or those with chronic pain.

9. Infrared Therapy / Red Light Therapy

Evidence indicates:

• Stimulates mitochondrial function in osteoblasts

• Reduces inflammation

• Enhances collagen production

Photobiomodulation has shown increased bone regeneration in animal and cellular studies.

10. Sound & Frequency Healing / Ultrasound Bone Stimulation

Low-intensity pulsed ultrasound (LIPUS):

• Used clinically to accelerate fracture healing

• Stimulates bone remodeling pathways

This is a technology-based natural approach rather than pharmaceutical.

11. Herbal Medicine

These herbs support bone density through hormonal, nutritive, and anti-inflammatory pathways:

• Horsetail (silica-rich) – supports collagen matrix

• Nettle leaf – mineral-rich, nourishing

• Red clover – phytoestrogens support menopausal bone stability

• Black cohosh – modulates estrogenic activity

• Dandelion leaf – high in bioavailable minerals

• Yellow dock – supports iron and mineral assimilation

• Ashwagandha – lowers stress hormones that degrade bone

12. Breathwork & Tapping

Chronic shallow breathing contributes to:

• Low-grade acidity → mineral leaching

• Low vagal tone → altered hormones

Breathwork reduces physiologic stress and improves mineral retention.

13. Earthing / Grounding

Emerging research suggests:

• Reduced inflammation

• Improved cortisol cycles

• Better sleep (which regulates bone turnover)

#osteoporosis #bonehealth