Strontium
Updated Mar. 09th, 2022
Strontium is an alkaline earth metal. A mineral. It is found alongside calcium in most foods. The human body absorbs strontium as if it were calcium. Strontium is an essential mineral for the normal development and health, structure, and function of the skeletal system.
Studies are now also showing that it can decrease bone resorption or loss, as well as increasing the rate of osteoblastic bone building activity. This mineral is thought to have a marked improvement in bone mass and bone mineral density. This makes it especially important for individuals suffering from osteoporosis, as well as in postmenopausal women in which the drop in estrogen leads to increased rates of bone loss.
Strontium use has also been associated with decreased incidence of cavities. There has also been research supporting its use in the treatment of osteoarthritis, as it is believed to also support proteoglycan synthesis, a structural component of cartilage.
Strontium is normally sold on its own, as bone combination supplements tend to include calcium and calcium has been shown to impair the absorption of strontium if they are taken together. To ensure proper absorption, it is recommended that strontium is taken well away from food and other multi-mineral supplements. 2 hours after and prior, if possible. Strontium is primarily available in capsules, and in its citrate form, for easier absorption.
In excess, strontium has been shown to actually replace high amounts of calcium in bone, leading to bone weakness. Consult your health professional to be sure you are following the proper dosage instructions in terms of when and how much you are taking.
Strontium makes for strength in structure! Indeed, strontium is an essential mineral for structure and the function of the skeletal system. It's amazing that strontium can not only decrease bone resorption or loss but also increase the rate of osteoblastic bone building activity.
I am certainly going to be considering a strontium supplement since my sex and ethnicity put me at risk for bone loss given strontium can improve in bone mass and bone mineral density. The dental benefit to strontium is awesome too and another reason why I am going to consider supplementing (though first I'll have a look at my diet since I am a big eater of beans, greens, and whole grains!!)
Hello Rachel,
It's great hearing your thoughts on our articles and that you're enjoying learning about natural health through our articles. Indeed, this mineral offers many functions and benefits, bone health being one of them. If you'd like to learn more about strengthening your bones both through supplements and diet, have a read through this article, https://www.nationalnutrition.ca/articles/health-concerns/bone-health-osteoporosis/
Have a healthy day