Vitamin D Slows Booze-Related Bone Loss

Wednesday, February 14th 2007

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New research shows vitamin D or an anti-osteoporosis drug can prevent alcohol-related bone loss caused by regular binge drinking.

"We know that repeated binge drinking resulting in high alcohol levels over time results in osteoporosis," said principal investigator Dr Frederick Wezeman, from Loyola University Medical Centre, Maywood, Illinois.

"We've been able to intervene and prevent this by higher doses of vitamin D as well as the bisphosphonates [such as Boniva], which can be prescribed."

In a study on rats, Dr Wezeman observed that large quantities of alcohol, similar to those taken in by binge drinkers, led to a significant decrease in bone mineral density and bone strength. "If you are an alcoholic, you are damaging your skeleton."

Treating the rats, before alcohol exposure, with a safe and effective dose of vitamin D prevented alcohol induced bone loss, significantly increasing bone mineral density in the tibia and lower spine. In addition, pre-treatment with a single dose of Boniva also prevented alcohol-induced bone loss.

"The mechanism of action of vitamin D and Boniva is different," Dr Wezeman said, "but the outcome is the same."

Repeated binge drinking results in osteoporosis over time.

Source, New Zealand Herald, Thursday 1 February 2007

Footnote from Ideal Health

The following products are all useful for Osteoporosis:

Boron
Calcium Magnesium Complex
Efamarine
EthiCal Bone Builder Vitamin D Powder
Ethi Cal Hi Strength Calcium
Liquid Calcium
Mineral Power
Self Test Mineral & Toxic Element Test Kit
Super Calcium Complete
Vitamin D 1000iu - Dry
Vitamin D3
Vitamin K

Related health information can be found here:

Alcoholism
Anti Inflammatory
Bones
Calcium Deficiency
Calcium to build bones
Fish oil, garlic, antioxidants
Immunity
Mineral Power - a supplement high in calcium & magnesium
Osteoporosis
Recommended Calcium Intake for New Zealanders

Related articles can be found here:

Alcohol Abuse Cost Reaches $8 billion

Efamarine - Help for Joint Mobility and the Maintenance of Immunity

Looking To The 50s For The Good Oil

Low Bone Mineral Density Linked to Dementia in Women

Minerals: Critical for Well-Being

NZ Bone-Growth Breakthrough

 

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Disclaimer: The health information presented here has been written for the New Zealand health consumer. It is of a general nature and is only intended to provide a summary of the subjects covered. The information is not intended to be comprehensive or to provide medical advice to you. While all care has been taken to ensure the accuracy of the information, no responsibility or liability is accepted, and no person should act in reliance on any statement contained in the information provided. All health ailments should be treated by a qualified health professional.

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