Essential Mineral Lowers Osteoporosis Risk by Raising Bone Density, Research Shows
According to new research appearing in the Journal of the American Society of Nephrology, potassium citrate supplements taken by older women can reduce the risk of osteoporosis by increasing their bone density.
The study, which was conducted by Dr. Reto Krapf of the University of Basel in Switzerland and colleagues, consisted of 161 post-menopausal women at an average age of 59. The women were split into two groups: One receiving a daily supplement of potassium citrate for up to 12 months, and the other given a daily supplement of potassium chloride for up to 12 months.
The researchers were aiming to prove that the acidic body pH in the participants, which is generally caused by poor lifestyle and dietary choices, could be raised by potassium citrate which is a base chemical. The control group was given potassium chloride because it is a neutral chemical that does not affect body pH.
After six to 12 months, bone mineral density tests were conducted on the participants’ lower spine and hips. A one percent increase in bone mineral density in the lumbar spine area as well as the hips occurred in the group taking the potassium citrate (base) supplements. Conversely, a one percent loss of bone density at both test sites occurred in the group taking the potassium chloride (neutral).
“Both the spine and hip are critical regions where osteoporosis and low bone mass result in debilitating fractures,” according to the American Society of Nephrology.
Less calcium was lost through urination as well in the women taking potassium citrate according to the researchers.
Krapf’s team of researchers say the amounts of acidic foods that lower the body’s pH, such as dairy products, refined grains and meat products are much too high in the typical American diet. Diets such as these cause alkaline calcium to be pulled from the bones by the body to help buffer the high levels of acid. When this happens, bone loss and other health disorders such as cancer are likely to develop.
Frank Mangano’s commentary:
Always remember to avoid processed and refined foods and pay attention to the acid/alkaline levels in your body. Diseases such as cancer thrive in acidic environments and conversely, cannot survive in an alkaline environment.
Make sure your diet is high in fresh, raw fruits and vegetables, which raise the body’s pH to healthier levels. Chlorella and Spirulina are also alkalizing superfoods.  I recommend consuming a whole food supplement such as “Super Green Formula” by Garden of Life, which contains chlorella, spirulina and a host of other nutrients that promote an alkaline environment.
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Posted: March 13th, 2007 under Potassium.
