A Variety of Options for Bone Health Products

When thinking of bone health products, one tends to think of calcium. It is no wonder: calcium is the building block for bones and teeth and is one of the most important minerals in the human body. We are constantly told to get plenty of calcium, either by consuming dairy products or through a calcium supplement.

However, there are other options for improving bone health. Of course, calcium is essential to good health, and women should consume 1200 to 1500 mg per day, but there are some other bone health products that are worth considering.

Choices in Bone Health Products: An Important Decision to Make

Most people can take in at least half of the calcium they need through the foods they eat. However, the body does not readily absorb some forms of calcium. In addition, the presence of some substances, like oxalic and phytic acids, can slow the absorption of calcium. Some bone health products combat this by combining calcium with vitamin C, D3, or malate (or a combination of the three) to improve the uptake of calcium by the body. Hyroxyapatite is the same form of calcium that is found in bones, so it is easily absorbed and particularly useful for replenishing the body’s stores of this important mineral.

Other bone health products include minerals that work together with calcium to build stronger bones and teeth. Boron is a mineral that is often overlooked by both consumers and calcium supplement manufacturers. Not only does boron help bone metabolism, but it is also beneficial in supporting brain function and regulating hormones, especially estrogen and testosterone. This last benefit is particularly important for post-menopausal women, whose estrogen levels are lower and who lose bone mass as a result.

Magnesium is another mineral that works hand-in-hand with calcium to keep bones healthy. It is very common to find calcium supplements that also contain magnesium. Magnesium is important for activating enzymes, assisting nerve conduction, and many other critical functions. Vitamin A is usually thought of as a vitamin that supports the eyesight, but it is also very important for bone development and the support of various organs.

It is always a good idea to consult your physician about adding any supplements to your regular diet. When choosing from the many bone health products currently on the market, carefully consider all of the vitamins and minerals the supplement contains before choosing the product that is right for your individual needs.