Osteoporosis is a chronic disease that probably has its start with
childbearing or even younger. There is no good way to significantly
reverse the bone loss. That said, however, there seems to be a difference
between quantity of bone and quality of bone. Bone quality can be improved
dramatically, with fracture risk reductions of 50% or more. Currenlty
available weekly drugs including Actonel and Fosamax work great. There is
a new monthly pill called Boniva. If none of them produce the desired
result, there are stronger drugs available.
None of the medications can be used without Calcium. After menopause
the current recommended dose is 1500mg per day, with Vitamin D taken with
it. Without the D, you can't absorb calcium.
None of that is any good without weight-bearing exercise. Walking,
aerobics, rollerblading, etc. My assumption is that riding counts, as it
sure seems to bear weight on my feet too, but I don't know of any studies to
show it. The exercise causes the stimuloation in the bones so that the
body knows where to put the calcium, and where bone remoeling is needed.
OK?
"Life is not
a journey to the grave with the intention of arriving safely in a pretty and
well preserved body, but rather to skid in broadside, thoroughly used up,
totally worn out, and loudly proclaiming --WOW-- what a ride !!
"
