What Does It Mean?
Osteoporosis is a condition characterized by weakened bones, making them more susceptible to fractures. In women, osteoporosis is often associated with hormonal imbalances, particularly postmenopausal declines in estrogen, chronic inflammation, and nutrient deficiencies affecting bone metabolism. Functional medicine focuses on addressing these underlying issues to restore bone health, improve calcium absorption, and reduce the risk of fractures.
How Did We Get There?
Root Causes
• Hormonal Imbalances – Declining estrogen levels reduce bone density by increasing bone resorption.
• Nutrient Deficiencies – Inadequate calcium, vitamin D, vitamin K2, and magnesium impair bone mineralization.
• Chronic Inflammation & Oxidative Stress – Prolonged inflammation promotes bone degradation and reduces repair.
• Gut Health & Malabsorption – Poor digestion and microbiome imbalances hinder the absorption of essential bone-supporting nutrients.
• Mitochondrial Dysfunction – Reduced cellular energy production affects bone-building osteoblast activity.
Signs & Symptoms
• Increased risk of fractures from minor falls or impacts
• Chronic back pain due to vertebral fractures
• Loss of height over time
• Poor posture or spinal curvature (kyphosis)
• Joint pain, stiffness, and reduced range of motion
Diagnostic Criteria
Diagnosis is based on clinical symptoms, bone mineral density (BMD) scans, and other criteria.
How Do We Treat It?
Functional Medicine Approach
The treatment approach focuses on increasing bone density, reducing bone resorption, optimizing nutrient absorption, and managing inflammation.
Supplement Protocol
| Supplement | Function | Dosage & Frequency |
| Vita Buffered C Powder | Provides antioxidant protection and supports collagen synthesis for bone matrix formation. | ½ scoop of powder with food, daily |
| Magnesium | Enhances calcium absorption, regulates bone turnover, and supports neuromuscular function. | 2 capsule with or without food, daily |
| OsteoPrev | Comprehensive support for bone health with calcium, vitamin D, magnesium, and vitamin K2. | 2 capsules with food, daily |
| V-Inflamma | Reduces inflammation and oxidative stress, protecting bone cells from damage. | 1 capsule with food, daily |
| V-Pax | Supports mitochondrial function to enhance osteoblast activity and overall bone health. | 2 capsules with food, daily |
| Vascuzyme | Supports circulation, reduces systemic inflammation, and aids in tissue repair. | 2 capsules without food, daily |
| Vita-D | Enhances calcium absorption and supports immune function. | 1 capsule with food, daily |
| V-Collagen | Provides structural support for bone matrix integrity and joint health. | 1 scoop of powder with food, daily |
| Vita-Biotic | Supports gut health and improves nutrient absorption for optimal bone metabolism. | 1 capsule without food, daily |
Additional Lifestyle Interventions:
• Weight-Bearing & Resistance Exercises – Strength training and weight-bearing activities help maintain and build bone mass.
• Dietary Modifications – Include calcium-rich foods (leafy greens, nuts, dairy) and reduce inflammatory processed foods.
• Gut Health Optimization – Use probiotics and digestive enzymes to enhance nutrient absorption.
• Inflammation Management – Minimize exposure to environmental toxins, manage stress, and optimize sleep quality.