 Strontium
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I have not found a cell receptor for Strontium (Sr) at this time, and to date, there is no indication or medical
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evidence that strontium is essential to human health.
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However, in the form of Strontium Ranelate, Sr has been demonstrated to increase bone mass through
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its stimulatory effect of osteoblasts (which increases bone formation), and its inhibitory effect of osteoclasts
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(which cause bone loss through bone resorption). At the recommended daily dosage of 2g in granules form,
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Protelos (strontium ranelate), has shown a significant reduction of vertrebral fractures and hip fractures in
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clinical trials, with decreased back pain and decreased body height loss compared to the placebo group.
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At this time, it is primarily recommended for post-menopausal women, but not pregnant, or breast-feeding
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females.
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The action of strontium is closely related to that of calcium, although retention of strontium varies inversely with
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calcium intake. Supplementing larger amounts of strontium increases calcium, but not magnesium retention,
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and it has the potential to lower stomach acid levels, insulin, WBC, germanium, fluoride, bismuth, and silicon.
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These effects should be kept in mind when considering strontium in the treatment of osteoporosis.
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In order to help increase Bone Mineral Density (BMD), over 1,000 mg of strontium has to be ingested daily
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(versus a few mg / day obtained through normal food intake), and while those amounts are well tolerated by
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some patients, various medical problems may be experienced by other patients, which include dental caries,
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nausea, abdominal spasms, headaches, skin irritation, swollen glands, fainting, memory problems, diarrhea,
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difficulty breathing, rickets, blood clots, headaches, or seizures. Additional caution is required by those with
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kidney problems, have a history of venous blood clots, or have an intolerance to aspartame, which is found in
Protelos.
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Since calcium inhibits strontium absorption, calcium supplements, antacid remedies, and food in general
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should not be taken within 2 hours before, and 2 hours after taking Protelos.
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Similarly to iodine pills being somewhat protective in case of a nuclear accident, taking small amounts of
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the (non-radioactive) trace mineral strontium may offer the same protection when being exposed to the radio-
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active form of strontium. Some toothpastes that are marketed for "Sensitive Teeth" contain strontium chloride
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as part of their formulation. ¤
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