Osteoporosis is a condition that affects millions of women and men. Fosamax is a popular drug that is used to treat this condition.

Unfortunately the FDA reports that Fosamax can cause excruciating pain in bones, joints, and muscles. Fosamax can cause destruction of the jawbone. Fortunately there are many natural approaches to improve bone density.

Alkalinize your system; Foods rich in calcium, magnesium, and especially potassium or bicarbonate are alkaline-forming, meaning that they shift the body toward a neutral or alkaline pH. This pH enables bones to hold on to calcium, which helps keep them strong. Fresh fruits are vegetables are major dietary sources or alkaline-containing minerals, especially potassium. Foods very high in potassium include coconut water, dates, raisins, and spinach. (Note: persons with kidney disease should not take  supplemental potassium. Potassium is best in food form such as melons, bananas, potatoes, whole grains, and legumes.)

 Alternatively, foods rich in chloride phosphate and sulfate are acid-forming, meaning that they are increase acidity in the blood and tissues. Foods high in salt (as you commonly find packaged and fast foods), beef, white breads, and rice, milk, and other simple sugars are highly acidic. One simple way to maintain a pH-balanced diet is to fill half of your plate with vegetables, one-quarter with fish or other lean protein, and the remaining one-quarter with a small amount of starch;

Calcium; has been shown to help prevent osteoporosis, and most studies showed that alone it slows bone loss. Calcium is most effective when combined with other nutrients that work synergistically to build bone.

Calcium Dosage- Take 250 to 300mg of highly absorbable calcium complexes such as citrate, citrate malate, chelate, lactate, or hydroxyapatite.

Magnesium; this mineral is thought to be just as important as calcium for bone density. It is involved in parathyroid hormone production and the activation of vitamin D, both of which influence calcium metabolism and absorption.

Magnesium Dosage: Take 250 to 350mg twice daily of magnesium taurate or glycinate in divided doses. Reduce the dosage if you get a loose stool.

Vitamin D; recent research has shown that Vitamin D deficiency is common, particularly in seniors. Studies have demonstrated that vitamin D3 taken along with calcium decreases postmenopausal bone loss, helps prevent osteoporosis, and decreases the risk of fractures.

Vitamin D Dosage; Take 1,000 to 2,000 IU daily with meals. Those with osteoporosis should take 5,000 IU or higher daily as directed by doctor.

Vitamin K; key player in bone calcification. Vitamin K is required for the bone-forming protein osteocalcin to function properly. Studies have shown that Vitamin K reduces bone loss as well as fracture rates.

Vitamin K Dosage; Studies have used up to 45mg daily of vitamin K2. A typical dosage is 500 to 2,000 mcg for those with osteoporosis. Safety: Those on blood-thinning medications should not take supplemental vitamin K without strict supervision from their doctor.