“Preventing osteoporosis? ”

Preventing osteoporosis is an essential aspect of maintaining bone health, particularly for individuals at increased risk, such as those taking medications like Anastrozole after breast surgery. While calcium, vitamin D3, and magnesium are essential nutrients for bone health, it's important to understand their roles and consider the appropriate supplementation.

Calcium: Adequate calcium intake is crucial for maintaining bone density. It is recommended that adults aged 19-50 consume around 1000 mg of calcium per day, and adults over 50 should aim for 1200 mg per day. While dietary sources of calcium are preferred, calcium supplements can be considered if dietary intake is inadequate. It is generally recommended to divide calcium supplement doses throughout the day and limit each dose to 500-600 mg to facilitate optimal absorption.

Vitamin D3: Vitamin D is necessary for calcium absorption and bone health. Sun exposure and certain food sources, such as fatty fish and fortified dairy products, can provide vitamin D. However, many people may require vitamin D supplements, especially in regions with limited sunlight or for those who have inadequate sun exposure. The recommended daily allowance for vitamin D is 600-800 IU for adults, but individual requirements may differ based on factors like age, ethnicity, and medical conditions. It is recommended to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized vitamin D supplementation guidance.

Magnesium: Magnesium is involved in bone metabolism and calcium regulation. Emerging evidence suggests that magnesium plays a role in bone health, but more research is needed to understand its specific impact on osteoporosis prevention. Consuming a balanced diet that includes magnesium-rich foods like legumes, whole grains, nuts, and seeds can help meet magnesium requirements. However, routine magnesium supplementation is not typically recommended solely for osteoporosis prevention unless there is a documented deficiency.

While calcium, vitamin D3, and magnesium are important for bone health, it is crucial to consult with your healthcare provider, who can assess your individual needs based on factors like age, medical history, and unique medication considerations. They can provide personalized recommendations for nutrient intake and guide you on the appropriate use of supplements to support your bone health while taking Anastrozole or addressing any specific concerns you may have.

Anastrazole and other Aromatase Inhibitors are very effective treatments for breast cancer
Suggest that you have DXA, bone density test
Bone health fundamentals include 1) getting adequate calcium by diet and/or supplements- Need 1200 mg daily 2) vitamin D - we aim for levels of 30 -50 units 3) Weight-bearing exercise - Walking 20 minutes at least 5 days/week. 4) fall prevention and home safety

For some women, based on DXA and other risks, drug treatment with Bisphosphonate may be indicated ( Alendronate or Zoledronic Acid)

Calcium and Vitamin D intake is preventive for bone loss and helps when you have normal bone density and in osteopenia.
However for osteoporosis additional treatment with medicine which help stimulate bone formation or reduce bone resorption is needed along with calcium and vitamin D.

Hello and thanks for sharing your question with the FATD community. Thanks for allowing me to offer my thoughts, tips and suggestions regarding your question. Do you currently have osteoporosis or are you trying to prevent it? Although some studies do not show a significant increase in bone density (low density of calcium in the bones is osteoporosis) with supplements like those you mention when taken along with other action items I feel it cannot hurt. Controlled weight-bearing exercises can greatly help maintain bone health and density. This can include brisk walking, but also can be achieved with static or slow-moving weight-bearing exercises that focus on 1-3 joints at a time. Eating a healthy diet with calcium, getting sun (vitamin D production), and staying hydrated can help as well. Also, allowing your body to rest is also recommended. Finally, balance and coordination exercises and activities help prevent falls (which can have a bigger consequence on those with weak or brittle bones. If your home is ‘fall risk assessed’ and rectified, it can lessen the chance of falling. I hope this helps.

Hello,Yes Calcium can help prevent bone loss, so can vitamin D. You also should get regular DXA scans.

Depends on your age and current bone density. An endocrinologist with an
interest in bone metabolism will be able to help.

Calcium and vitamin D are good standbys. Your question says you are 10. If so your parents need to have you seen by an endocrinologist.

That’s a question for the physician managing your osteoporosis.

I would recommend that you discuss this with your primary care doctor or whoever is prescribing your anastrozole. Most people get plenty of vitamin D and magnesium in their diet and don’t need extra supplements, but your doctor can check these blood levels and guide you further.

Yes but the most important piece of that is weight-bearing exercise.