Strontium Supplements Health Benefits

The main health benefit of strontium supplements is its role in preventing osteoarthritis and improving dental health. Strontium is a mineral that is believed to have bone-forming effects and is therefore used in the treatment of osteoporosis.

Women who are going through menopause are more likely to develop osteoporosis. Experts believe that strontium ranelate given to women during menopause can increase bone density and reduce the number of vertebral fractures. When compared to other treatments of osteoporosis, strontium supplements are relatively safe and free of harmful side effects.
In certain cases, strontium may be prescribed in the treatment of some types of cancers and to ease bone pain.

A special injection of prescription strontium is used in such treatments.
When prostate cancer is not responding to other traditional treatments, a prescription form of strontium may be administered.
Recent studies indicate that strontium can prevent tooth decay and cavities.
Paget’s disease is a type of bone disease that can benefit from strontium supplements. Research shows that the bones of people with Paget’s absorb more strontium than normal. A supplement in such cases may reduce some symptoms. This however, does not have any conclusive proof.
All in all, there is a lot more research and evidence required to determine the health benefits and efficacy of strontium in treating various conditions. Prescription strontium or strontium supplements should only be taken under a doctor’s supervision.

Side Effects Of Strontium Supplements

Under normal circumstances, strontium is eliminated as waste through the kidneys. If there are any problems with the kidney, it can result in a buildup of strontium and cause other health complications. People who suffer from any type of kidney disease should therefore avoid strontium supplements.
Strontium ranelate may increase the risk of blood clots in people who suffer from blood clotting disorders. It is best to avoid strontium supplements in these cases.
Women who are pregnant or breastfeeding should avoid any form of strontium.
Very high doses of strontium can cause stomach pain, diarrhea, and headaches and may even cause bone damage in some people.
There have been instances of DRESS syndrome (Drug Reaction with Eosinophilia and System Symptoms) associated with the use of Strontium Ranelate.

Information & Facts:

Strontium is a mineral found in foods that are grown in soil. Strontium carbonate, strontium chloride, strontium sulfate, strontium gluconate and strontium citrate are some of the different forms in which strontium is available. The human body most easily absorbs strontium gluconate. Strontium is also as a non-essential trace mineral that is found in the body, though in very small amounts. Studies show that strontium can increase calcium retention in the body and strontium supplements are often used to treat conditions such as osteoporosis and tooth decay.

Ingredients:

Strontium supplements contain more than 80 nutrients including minerals, amino acids, vitamins, herbal extracts, trace minerals, and enzymes. When buying strontium supplements, make sure that they are produced by a facility that is GMP registered. This will ensure that the supplements comply with the rigid mandates set and are free of any contaminants. Since the USDA does not govern nutritional supplements, it is important to be wary of fraud where the supplement may not contain all the ingredients mentioned in the label. Ideally, strontium supplements should not contain any additives or fillers such as silica, sucrose, gluten or starch. There should not be any dyes, flavors or artificial colorings used either. When choosing such supplements, look out for capsules or tablets with enteric coating as this improves the absorption of the vitamins into the bloodstream.

Dosage:

It is recommended that you take one capsule of strontium along with your breakfast a few times a week. The approved daily intake ranges from 10 to 1000 mgs though in some cases it may even be higher. Alternatively, consume as per your doctor’s instructions. The efficacy of strontium supplements increase when taken with vitamin D and calcium. Many experts suggest you take strontium along with the full range of other vitamins and minerals in order to obtain the maximum health benefits. Prescription strontium is usually safe for use as long as it is done under the supervision of a doctor. Certain types of strontium such as strontium ranelate may cause complications such as diarrhea, headache, and stomach pain in some cases. There are also some toothpastes that may contain strontium as an ingredient. These have been approved by the FDA and are safe for use.

Interactions:

Research on the long-term effects of strontium in the body continues. As of now there are no known drug interactions with strontium. An overdose of strontium may cause bone damage and strontium supplements are not recommended for children of any age.

Submitted on January 16, 2014