What are Bisphosphonates?

Bisphosphonates are drugs used to try and prevent bone loss.  Cancer patients are put on this because drugs they take to treat pain associated with cancer can lead to bone loss.  It is also used with patients with Osteoporosis.

Drugs prescribed for this problem are:

Fosamax, Actonel, Boniva, Aledndronate, Ibandronate and Risedronate.

Health Concerns and Side Effects:

With every drug there is a side effect.  Some of the side effects with using Biphosphonates are:

• Abdominal pain
• Dyspepsia (upset stomach), nausea, constipation or diarrhea, flatulence, vomiting, dysphagia (difficulty swallowing)
• Gastritis
• Muscle and joint pain
• Headaches
• Dizziness just to name a few
  
  So, if you can avoid taking drugs for the problem it would help your body heal faster.  Drugs hide symptoms and don't work on eliminating the cause of the problem.  Food is often the problem so here are some food and vitamin suggestions that can help keep your bones healthy.  
  
  * Calcium, vitamin D and phosphorous are key to bones health.  
  
  * Eating dairy products, salmon, sardines, almonds, and green leafy vegetables are great to keep your bones strong
  
  *Whole grains, shell fish, lean meats, beans along with fruits and vegetables (especially brussel spouts) are filled with zinc, boron and copper which is needed as well.
  
  With every problem we encounter in health, there are most often natural methods of relief.  It just takes a bit of an effort and research to find out what they are! Dr. Amie Gregory, DC, CCEP, ANF can help you with lifestyle suggestions and cover many facets of health.  Contact our San Francisco chiropractic office or San Carlos, CA office today!