HOLISTIC HEALTH NOTEBOOK

When we talk about bones, we use language that suggests that minerals somehow jam together like a lump of hard clay to form bone tissue. The minerals that are so important to the strength and density of bones are, however, laid in an organized pattern into a protein matrix. Bones are living tissue, being continually remodeled as nutrients are pulled into and pulled out of that matrix. Osteoclast cells constantly remove old and damaged bone tissue. Osteoblasts and osteocytes create a new matrix, a web-like micro-architecture of bone and into which minerals like calcium are placed.

So when we discuss the strength and density of bone, we will not simply discuss the minerals, we will also need to discuss the matrix because if the matrix is defective, the remodeling process will not happen correctly.

There are several markers of bone quality, including osteocalcin, vitamin D, insulin-like growth factor (IGF-1), and

N-terminal propeptide of type 1 procollagen. Frankly, I do not know much about these. When we get this technical, my eyes glaze over and I nod off. Your doctor understands, however. And since he or she is on your health team, you might want to ask questions related to these factors if you are at risk for developing osteoporosis.

A recent study looked at these biomarkers in a group of 76 post-menopausal women with low estrogen levels, over a 12 week period. They were testing a product called Ostera, a professional product that blends vitamins D and K, berberine, and reduced iso-alpha acids complex from an extract from hops. This blend of nutrients and herbs is meant to positively influence the biomarkers of bone remodeling.

Participants were asked to consume a Mediterranean-style diet, participate in aerobic exercise, and take the supplement. In that 12-week period, significant positive differences were noted in each marker, indicating that bone quality had improved.

We also recommend combining the Ostera with a calcium hydroxyapatite supplement that also contains vitamin D, phosphorus, and other nutrients to provide for optimum mineralization of the matrix.

— Ms. Simontacchi is a certified lifestyle educator at the offices of Dr. Alan Gruning in Fort Myers and owner of the Island Nutrition Center on Sanibel.