MENOPAUSE AND OSTEOPOROSIS

Without a doubt, the single most important concern of the menopausal woman remains osteopororsis. Osteoporosis can only be prevented with the correct forms of calcium and magnesium in the proper ratio, in conjunction with vitamin D and K.

Like menopause, osteoporosis does not occur suddenly, but rather gradually, with a decrease in the ovulatory cycles beginning between the ages of 45 to 55, the timing varies greatly from individual to individual.

Several symptoms and complaints occur in postmenopausal women. These symptoms and complaints are both physical and emotional. Listed below are the major physical and emotional symptoms of menopause.

WHAT IS OSTEOPOROSIS?

Osteoporosis is the normal loss of bone, which follows the menopause in women and occurs in all  occurs in all individuals with advancing age. 

Osteoporosis produces no symptoms or warning signs until a fracture occurs. Most typical are fractures of the wrist, hip, and collapse or “crush” fractures of the spine, which produce deformity, loss of height, and severe curvature of the spine.

Osteoporosis develops less often in men than women because men have larger skeletons, bone loss starts later in life, and progresses more slowly. 

There are multiple risk factors involved in osteoporosis. There are risk factors you cannot change and risk factors you can change.

RISK FACTORS YOU CANNOT CHANGE

AGE

The older you are, the greater your risk of osteoporosis. As we grow older our bones become less dense and weaker, regardless of gender.

As we age bones become less dense and weaker, regardless of gender, and calcium absorption becomes less efficient.

ABSORPTION

Calcium absorption becomes less efficient as we age.

GENDER 

Your chances of developing osteoporosis are 6 to 8 times greater if you are a woman than a man. Women have less bone tissue, begin to lose bone sooner, lose bone more rapidly than men, and calcium is drained from the bones during pregnancy and nursing.

BODY SIZE 

Small, thin-bone women are at greater risk.

ETHNICITY 

Caucasian and Asian women are at highest risk. African-American and Hispanic women have a lower but still significant risk.

HEREDITY/FAMILY HISTORY

People whose parents have a history of fractures are more likely to develop osteoporosis than those who do not have such a family history.  

RISK FACTORS YOU CAN CHANGE

DIET

Clearly and indisputably the single most important factor in osteoporosis.

INACTIVITY

Research has clearly shown that physical inactivity and lack of exercise leads to bone loss, and lessens calcium absorption. Exercise increases the circulation and the absorption of calcium. It is very important to exercise at least five days a week moderately. At least 20 to 60 minutes per day without fail.

Swimming and bicycling are suggested. Increasingly doctors are recommending weight-bearing exercise such as brisk walking, aerobics, and light weight lifting. 

MEDICATION

Aluminum blocks absorption of calcium and fluoride, which are important for bone integrity. Aluminum is present in high amounts in pickled foods and cheese as well as anti-acid medications and anti-perspirants.

Prescription drugs such as anti-coagulants, lithium, anti-arthritic or anti-inflammatory steroids, and thyroid hormones are high in aluminum.

ALCOHOL

SMOKING 

Studies have demonstrated a direct relationship between tobacco use and decreased bone density. Nicotine in tobacco stimulates the adrenal glands to release increased amounts of salt and water-retaining hormones, causing breast sensitivity and water retention. Stop smoking, the sooner the better. 

IMPORTANCE OF CALCIUM 

Calcium deficiency is very common in our culture. The  North American diet does not even come close to meeting the normal calcium requirements of older people.

The need for calcium supplementation is so conclusively known it is officially endorsed by the National Institute of Health. The NIH, the world’s foremost authority on women’s health issues, officially recommends 1200 mg. a day of calcium citrate in combination with magnesium oxide to prevent osteoporosis.

The correct form of calcium supplementation in the proper ratio with magnesium is clearly and indisputably the only scientifically proven way to prevent osteoporosis.

Even though most of the calcium is contained in our bones, the blood and cellular concentrations of this mineral are maintained by the body first. Therefore, when calcium intake is inadequate, calcium is withdrawn from bone in order to maintain necessary plasma levels, further exacerbating the problem.  

FORMS OF CALCIUM AND ABSORPTION

It has become very common to just blindly supplement or mega-doze calcium without regard to calcium metabolism. It is very important to understand the difference in various calcium forms and the many complex factors affecting calcium absorption.

CALCIUM CARBONATE

Because of its availability and low cost, calcium carbonate, made from oyster shell, is the most commonly promoted calcium supplement. However, calcium carbonate is insoluble (not dissolved), it has poor bioavailability, helps in forming kidney stones, and interferes with iron absorption.

Calcium carbonate is not readily absorbed into the body regardless of the dosage. Taking this form of calcium is a particular problem for North American women who are urged by special interest groups to take calcium carbonate. 

Clinical and scientific data does not support taking calcium carbonate. People taking this form of calcium are not getting much, if any calcium into their blood or their bones.

 There is little, if any benefit at all in taking calcium carbonate supplements. 

CITRATE SALT OF CALCIUM – THE CORRECT FORM OF CALCIUM

The NIH officially recognizes what researchers and scientists have known for years. Calcium citrate is the only form of calcium that is readily absorbed by the human body.

Citrate salt of calcium is soluble (dissolved), making it bio-available, it is less likely to help in forming kidney stones, and is less likely to interfere with absorption of iron.

Citrate salt of calcium is six times (6) more expensive than calcium carbonate, which is why most vitamin manufacturers don’t use it.

GynoFem, an FDA approved, all natural multi-mineral, multi-vitamin supplement, specifically formulated to prevent osteoporosis, uses citrate salt of calcium as it’s only source of calcium. 

ESSENTIAL ROLE OF MAGNESIUM IN CALCIUM ABSORPTION

Adequate amounts of magnesium are required for the absorption and utilization of calcium, favoring the deposition of calcium in bones where it belongs and preventing deposition of calcium in the soft tissues and kidneys where it does not belong.

Without magnesium, high doses of calcium will lead to calcification of soft tissues, kidney stone formation, and decreased bone strength. Further, magnesium is required in adequate amounts for the normal activity of 300 enzymes, including those involved in the transfer of energy from foods to physical and mental activities.

Magnesium levels should be one half of calcium or calcium will not deposit properly and much will be lost.

GynoFem provides 1200 mg. of calcium as the citrate salt and 600 mg. of magnesium as the oxide. This is the highest recommended dosage of the correct form of calcium and magnesium recommended by the NIH.  

IMPORTANCE OF VITAMIN D

Increases gut absorption of calcium and magnesium, re-absorption of calcium and magnesium by the kidneys and increased bone turnover, which is needed for proper bone formation and mineralization. Studies have shown that vitamin D production decreases in the elderly, in people who are house bound, and during the winter.

GynoFem provides 400 IU of vitamin D in the recommended daily dose, the amount necessary for proper and complete gut absorption of calcium and magnesium.

IMPORTANCE OF VITAMIN K

Human and animal studies have found that vitamin K is involved in bone remodeling. Osteocalcin is a protein with important mineral-binding properties. Regulated by vitamin K, osteocalcin is directly proportional to the amount of calcium in bones. Vitamin K deficiency, more common as we grow older, leads to osteocalcin loss.

Vitamin K supplementation decreases bone loss and calcium excretion. Vitamin K is also needed for normal blood clotting in bone formation, speeds the healing of fractures, reduces and accelerates the healing of bruises and damaged skin, burns, sunburns, and skin irritations.

The recommended daily dose of GynoFem prevents vitamin K deficiency.  

MINERAL DEFICIENCY

Dr. Linus Pauling, winner of two Nobel prizes, states, “You can trace every sickness, every disease, and every ailment to a mineral deficiency.”

Following disintegration in the gut contents are evacuated into the small intestine in the form of luminal fluid. All minerals, vitamins and trace elements are absorbed in the small intestine. Any mineral has to be soluble (dissolved) in the luminal fluid of the small intestine in order to be absorbed.

The pH of the small intestinal fluid is in the range of 7.0 to 7.2. At this pH inorganic minerals form insoluble (not dissolved) hydroxides, a gelatinous magma type of precipitation, which makes the minerals non-absorbable.

There is no known scientific test to determine the exact percentage of minerals absorbed by the human body, however, scientists are in agreement that biovailability of inorganic minerals may be below 20% and it is not above 30%.

Supplement manufacturers increase the dosage of inorganic minerals hoping to offset this process and increase the mineral percentage uptake. However, the increase in inorganic mineral content only leads to an increase of gelatinous magma, which lines the mucous membrane of the small intestine. This blocks absorption of all minerals and vitamins and causes gastrointestinal distress such as diarrhea and constipation.

Increasing the dosage of inorganic minerals will not lead to a significant increase in mineral uptake. It will greatly increase the G.I. tract side effects and the instability of vitamins.  

WHAT IS CHELATION?

Chelation, pronounced “key-late,” is the process of bonding inorganic minerals with amino acids. Amino acids are mixed with inorganic minerals while in solution creating a covalent bond.

Since amino acids are completely and efficiently absorbed by highly specialized duodenal cells known as villi, they are ideally suited to serve as carriers of the bonded minerals or trace elements.

When chelated to amino acids minerals are soluble (dissolved) so they become bioavailable. Absorption takes place more efficiently and uptake is more rapid.

INORGANIC MINERALS VERSUS CHELATED MINERALS

Inorganic minerals are found in nature, they are obtained from the earth after purification. Chelated minerals are inorganic minerals engineered to be soluble, enabling the body to absorb them more efficiently. 

It is in the duodenum where all minerals, vitamins and trace elements are absorbed. Located in the small intestine the duodenum is lined with amino acid receptor sites called “villi.” These receptors are widely distributed across the duodenum mucosal walls. They have tremendous ability to absorb amino acids. When bonded to amino acids minerals are efficiently and rapidly taken up by the duodenum.

Inorganic minerals come into contact with vitamin molecules causing degradation and oxidation, leading to a decrease in vitamin absorption. Chelated minerals are bonded to amino acids which shields them from vitamins.  

Mineral deficiency can only be prevented by ingestion of chelated minerals. Chelated minerals are absorbed and do not cause G.I. tract disturbances.

GynoFem uses the highest quality amino acid chelates and complexes of minerals and trace elements to defeat mineral deficiency.  

BENEFITS OF TAKING GYNOFEM

Clinical studies have shown that GynoFem has a significant impact on preventing and reversing post-menopausal bone loss and the effect on increasing bone density is not temporary but long term and lasting.

RECOMMENDED DOSAGE

Six (6) caplets of GynoFem taken daily in divided amounts of three (3) caplets provides 1200 mg. of calcium citrate and 600 mg. of magnesium oxide.

Calcium is not absorbed as well in an alkaline environment, it is best taken between meals or in the absence of foods when the stomach is more acidic. This is also allows vitamin D to work with the stomach’s hydrochloric acid to increase absorption.

Taken at night, before going to bed, will help absorption of GynoFem and prevent extra loss of body calcium that can occur during the night. Calcium with magnesium is also a very good natural tranquilizer and will help in a good night’s sleep.

Magnesium taken in large doses can initially play havoc with the stomach. When first taking GynoFem some bloating, gas, and intestinal distress can be expected. Begin with one tablet three times a day. As the stomach adjusts, and it will, increase the dosage accordingly until reaching the required maximum dose of six tablets a day, taken in evenly divided doses of two tablets.

If you are a smoker, refrain from smoking at least 1 hour after taking GynoFem. Nicotine decreases the transit time of food in the bowel and decreases the absorption of nutrients.

GynoFem contains no animal products, sugars, starch, corn antigens, dairy products, wheat products, yeast products, fish oil, kelp, artificial colors, artificial flavors, or preservatives.  

MENOPAUSE AND ESTROGEN DOMINANCE

Sometime in their mid-thirties women become severely deficient in progesterone and with the onset of menopause progesterone levels drop to near zero. Estrogen levels also drop, but only by 40% to 60% as much as progesterone levels, creating in the woman's body what has come to be known as “estrogen dominance.”

The typical North American diet, taking birth-control pills, and HRT add significantly to this “estrogen dominance,” causing an estrogen imbalance that is toxic to the body.

ESTROGEN DOMINANCE AND OVERWEIGHT WOMEN

Androstenedione, an estrogen precursor, is available in high concentration in the fatty tissue in an overweight woman’s body. Cholesterol, which is in high concentration in fatty tissue, provides a great store of estrone. Estrone converts the androstenedione into endogenous estrogen, which is estrogen manufacturer from the body tissue rather than estrogen produced by the ovaries. The result is that a   

constant supply of estrogen augments the estrogen being produced by the ovaries. With high levels of estrogen in her body, the woman will experience fluid retention and weight gain.

WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF NATURAL PROGESTERONE?

Natural progesterone counter-acts estrogen dominance, works as an anti-cancer agent, and helps the body achieve normal hormone balance. Women taking natural progesterone experience less female discomfort, increased vitality, emotional balance, reduce sleep disturbance, and progesterone is often cited as the missing ingredient for enhancing the woman’s sexual libido.

PROGESTERONE AND OSTEOPOROSIS

Bone is a living, dynamic structure and requires the removal of old bone and replacement with new bone to stay strong and healthy.

Old bone crystallizes, becomes brittle and is more prone to break. This old bone must be dissolved before new bone formation can take place.

Osteoclasts move through the bones eating the old bone out in a process referred to as osteoblasting. Osteoblasting creates lacuna’s in the bones, little lakes of nothing. New bone growth occurs in these lacuna’s, generating a constant process of bone regeneration. 

Osteoclasts are driven by progesterone. When women become deficient in progesterone the osteoclasts become sluggish. Progesterone makes new bone growth possible by stimulating the osteoclasts; however, progesterone does not create new bone growth.

Scientific and clinical studies leave no doubt bone growth can only be achieved with calcium/magnesium supplementation in conjunction with Vitamin D & Vitamin K.

Progesterone is necessary, but not sufficient for new bone formation.

Renaissance™ NATURAL PROGESTERONE CREAM

Renaissance is the one and only progesterone cream on the market that contains 100% pure micronizied USP progesterone powder in a topical cream using lipoceutical encapsulation. There is no other cream on the market that can possibly provide the benefits of real natural progesterone cream.

To completely eliminate all the underlying causes of menopause and it’s many symptoms, Renaissance™ may be used as an adjunct to, but cannot replace the need for GynoFem.

ORAL VS. TOPICAL

Taken orally progesterone is subject to first-pass metabolism, it passes through the liver where up to 90% of it is removed from the body. Only 10 to 20% of orally dosed progesterone gets into the body. Transdermal creams are the safest and effective way to get the proper physiologic dose of progesterone.

LIPOCEUTICAL ENCAPSULATION

Using conventional delivery systems such as creams, gels, ointments, and lotions, no more then 30% of the active ingredient can permeate the skin. Penetration does not exceed 10-12 layers deep in the skin.

Liposomes are microscopic vesicles composed of membrane-like lipid bilayers separated by an aqueous layers. By encapsulating active ingredients within multi-layers of lipid spheres, liposomes penetrate 25-30 layers deep in the skin. Increasing the concentration in the epidermis and dermis, providing a prolonged time-release action throughout the entire day.

Renaissance is the one and only progesterone cream on the market that contains 100% pure micronzied USP progesterone powder in a topical cream using lipoceutical encapsulation. Renaissance natural progesterone cream corrects low progesterone levels and counters the negative effects of estrogen dominance, relieving and preventing symptoms of menopause.   

DOSAGE FREQUENCY

There are those who recommend application of progesterone be suspended for a period of time each month, usually 7 to 10 days. Failing to administer progesterone when a woman is estrogen dominant will simply lead to greater estrogen dominance. Listen to your body. Apply Renaissance as often as necessary to rid yourself of unwanted symptoms. For many women this means applying Renaissance every single day.

NEED TO SELF-DOSE

Any woman’s hormone levels fluctuate by the hour. It’s impossible to prescribe a universal dosage that will work for all woman.  Dosage varies from woman to woman, must be monitored, and often adjusted. 

Each pump of the Renaissance dispenser contains approximately 32mg. of natural progesterone. Women must become aware of their symptoms and their patterns and dose accordingly. 

Progesterone does help to induce sleep and for this reason the applications during the day are lighter, with a heavier application made at night to realize a good nights sleep.

APPLICATION

Renaissance is best applied to the back of the elbows and knees, flat of the stomach, neck, and face. Best results are achieved when applied 2 or 3 times a day, spread over a larger surface then a smaller surface.  

INGREDIENTS

Renaissance contains 2625 mg. of natural USP FDA approved micronizied progesterone powder in a 3.5 oz. convenient pump dispenser, highest allowed by the FDA, encapsulated in liposomes. Each pump of the dispenser contains approximately 32 MG of progesterone.

Natural progesterone is free of any untoward teratogenic, metabolic, or hemodynamic effects. Heavy doses of progesterone cream will reduce wakefulness and induce sleep.

WILD YAM SCAM

Many companies claim their progesterone cream contains “real progesterone.” Checking the ingredient list reveals they are using Wild Mexican Yam, or Mexican Wild Yam Root Extract These are all code words for the same product, Diosgenin.

The human body does not produce the enzymes necessary to convert Diosgenin, the active component of Wild Mexican Yam, into progesterone. Only USP progesterone powder is bio-identical in every way to progesterone produced by the corpus luteum. Only USP natural progesterone will produce saliva and serum levels of progesterone.  

WHAT IS ESTROGEN?

Horse urine. 

"Premarin" is an acronym for "pregnant mares' urine."

Factory farmed horses are impregnated then confined from the fourth month through the end of their eleven-month pregnancy so their urine can be collected. Their foals are slaughtered for sale. The urine is manufactured into HRT and birth control pills.

HORMONE REPLACEMENT THERAPY (HRT) – FACTS ABOUT ESTROGEN

Since the 1940’s aggressive drug company advertising and promotion have touted estrogen as a miraculous cure for osteoporosis. Without adequate study, physicians prescribed it freely.

There is not a single study to date that even suggests HRT will prevent osteoporosis or heart disease. For years the drug companies have made the claim that estrogen protects bone loss; it does not! Estrogen slows down the body’s normal process of bone regeneration, decreasing bone density and creating brittle bones.

Even the American Heart Association now takes the position that HRT does not prevent heart disease, and in fact may increase the incidence of heart attacks in women.

There is one clearly established scientific fact about estrogen; taking estrogen results in a 500 to 1,500% increase in cancer.  

WHAT IS FOSAMAX?

Fosamax is a bisphosphonate, a metabolic poison used to make chemical cleaners. A common use of this chemical is the manufacture of cleaners that remove soap scum from your bathtub.

FOSAMAX – BUYER BEWARE!

Since its approval, Fosamax (alendronate) has become the world’s best-selling osteoporosis treatment. The drug is heavily advertised to doctors and women as a facture preventive.

Two studies, both funded by Merck, the manufacturer of Fosamax, showed virtually no change in bone density or bone growth after two years of testing. Fosamax is the eighth drug in this class of drugs to fail. There is no evidence whatsoever that Fosamax prevents osteoporosis or prevents fractures.

Fosamax is a poison that actually kills the osteoclasts. It is quite clear that if you kill these cells your bone will get denser. Four years later the bone actually becomes weaker even though it is more dense.  Fosamax does not build any new bone.

The problems with this drug are extremely dangerous, widespread, and growing. One in three women taking Fosamax complain of upper gastrointentinal symptoms such as abdominal pain, uclers, and heartburn.

The company’s own medical insert warns consumers not to lay down after taking Fosamax for fear that the drug will burn a hole in the stomach or esophagus.

DOSAGE

Taking 6 caplets daily in divided amounts of 3 caplets provides 1200 mg. of calcium citrate and 600 mg. of magnesium oxide. Taken before going to bed will help in a good night’s sleep.