With age comes the threat of bone loss and weakening. There are several reasons for this. First, our diets may change or the absorption of Calcium may diminish. This is especially true if the source of Calcium is carbonate, since very good stomach acid is required for proper absorption. We also tend to drink less milk. Carbonated drinks may contain phosphoric acid which further leaches Calcium from the bones.
Estrogen is also required to put Calcium into bones and that diminishes greatly with menopause in women. Isoflavones from soy or other herbs are excellent as estrogen or estrogen replacement. Vitamin D is required, as well as Magnesium. Generally, 2:1 calcium to magnesium ratio was thought to be sufficient, but now a 1:1 ratio is considered better. Several minerals should be taken, like Boron, Zinc, Strontium, phosphorus, etc. to aid in the formation of strong bones.
It is important to do weight-bearing exercise to increase the strength of the bones. The body only gives out what is required of it, and if we make no demands by walking, or weight-lifting, the bones become weaker. Keeping weight down puts less strain on joints and makes exercise easier. Carefully controlling blood pressure (based more on age than number) can prevent dizziness and falling - and possibly breaking a hip. Check your source of calcium. It should be a liquid, if possible: 1200-1500 mg as lactate or citrate (not carbonate), or a mix. Coral calcium is excellent as an add-on with its extra minerals, although the calcium is a carbonate form.
