Bones are indeed amazing. They serve as a frame for our bodies and to protect key organs. Bones also perform several important biological roles as well; these include blood-cell formation, storage of minerals and fat, and hormone production. It is important to support strong bones and bone growth; this is especially true for women, who are four times more likely to suffer from osteoporosis. As women age, changes in estrogen levels can affect bone mass; this is often unnoticed, as osteoporosis is a silent disease.
Strong Bones is a broad-spectrum formula to defend against osteoporosis. The strength of Strong Bones begins with microcrystalline hydroxyapatite (MCHA), the most readily available form of calcium for human supplementation, which is also rich in proteins and phosphorus. This is the same type of calcium found in humans. Our MCHA is sourced from pasture-fed New Zealand bovine, certified free from antibiotics, herbicides, pesticides, and bovine spongiform encephalopathy (BSE or “mad cow disease”). It is freeze-dried to offer the highest quality possible.
The amino acids ʟ‑lysine and ʟ‑proline improve calcium absorption and support collagen production, with the support of vitamin C.
Glucosamine sulfate represents a natural component for healthy cartilage and the production of connective tissue.
Magnesium is included to facilitate the absorption of calcium.
Zinc, copper, manganese, and boron are essential elements for bone growth, collagen formation, and the maintenance of strong connective tissue, along with promoting calcium retention.
Vitamin B1 (thiamin) is essential to the formula to support metabolism of carbohydrates and for its role in energy production at the cellular level.
Vitamin K2 is included for its dual role in bone production and in the prevention of bone loss.
The more absorbable form of magnesium, bisglycinate, has replaced the magnesium oxide due to its superior absorption.
Silica-rich horsetail promotes the strength and elasticity of connective tissue.
Curcumin 95% curcuminoids is among the new ingredients in Strong Bones.
Lutein extract supports levels of this carotenoid, which have been shown in studies to be deficient in women with several forms of osteoporosis.
Grape seed extract, 95% proanthocyanidins, has been shown to enhance bone density in animal trials.
Green tea, 75% epigallocatechin gallate — According to studies out of Hong Kong, green-tea EGCG boosted the activity of a key enzyme that promotes bone growth by up to 79%. EGCG also significantly boosted levels of bone mineralization in the cells, which strengthens bones. Scientists also showed that high concentrations of EGCG blocked the activity of a type of cell (osteoclast) that breaks down or weakens bones.
Lycopene, a phytochemical found in tomatoes, protects bone-producing cells from oxidative stress.
Studies in both the US and the Netherlands have shown folic acid supplementation helps prevent bone fractures in the elderly.
The coenzyme form of vitamin B12, methylcobalamin, completes the formula, as research at Tufts University have identified methylcobalamin as a modifiable risk factor in bone mineral density research.