Osteoporosis is a condition that weakens bones and increases the risk of fractures. Many individuals are looking at natural supplements to support bone health. AlgaeCal, a supplement derived from marine algae, has gained attention as a natural approach to managing bone loss and improving bone mineral density (BMD), particularly when combined with strontium citrate found in Strontium Support II (AOR).
What is AlgaeCal?
AlgaeCal is a plant-based supplement made from a type of marine algae found off the coast of South America. This algae is naturally rich in more absorbable calcium than traditional forms like calcium carbonate. Calcium is the most abundant mineral in the body and is critical for bone strength and structure. AlgaeCal is also rich in a variety of naturally occurring minerals like magnesium, boron, and silica.
Magnesium is important in regulating calcium metabolism, thus supporting bone formation, and bone strength. Magnesium and calcium work together to support bone mineralization, the process by which bone tissue hardens and gains strength.
Boron enhances the body’s ability to metabolize calcium and magnesium. It also plays a role in bone density by supporting hormonal regulation and improving the absorption of essential nutrients. Silica is crucial for collagen production, a protein that gives bones their structure and flexibility, further promoting bone strength.
The Role of Strontium in Bone Health
Strontium has been shown to have significant benefits for bone health and works by:
- Stimulating bone formation: Strontium encourages the activity of osteoblasts, the cells responsible for building new bone tissue, thereby increasing bone mineral density.
- Reducing bone resorption: Strontium also inhibits osteoclasts, the cells that break down bone tissue, which helps to reduce bone loss over time.
A 7-year longitudinal study published in the Journal of Clinical Densitometry provided significant evidence regarding the efficacy of AlgaeCal in improving bone health over the long term. The study involved postmenopausal women taking AlgaeCal, as well as strontium, and other essential nutrients including Vit D & K and Boron. The results were:
Increased Bone Mineral Density (BMD): Participants experienced a significant increase in BMD, particularly in the spine and hip regions, key areas vulnerable to osteoporosis-related fractures.
Increased Bone Strength: The study also showed that AlgaeCal led to improved bone strength over time, making bones less prone to fractures.
Sustained Results: The long-term effects of AlgaeCal were sustained over the 7 years, with participants showing continued benefits even after several years of supplementation.
The limitation with AlgaeCal is that there are no large-scale independent placebo-controlled studies but early evidence suggests it may help increase BMD. Because strontium has a higher molecular weight it may artificially increase BMD readings. Regardless, other studies showed an increase after correcting for the strontium effect. If you try it, pair it with weight-bearing exercise and Vit D & K for maximal effects.
Lyle Sunada is a compounding pharmacist and NAMS Certified Menopause Practitioner specializing in hormone balancing and alternative medicine at Cloverdale Pharmasave. Everything mentioned in the article is available In-Store.
