What can I take for osteoporosis other than prescriptions medications?

I have been taking prescriptions meds for osteoporosis for 5 years. My bone density tests show no improvement, slight worsening of osteoporosis. My doctor says it's severe. I have a medical condition called gastroesophageal reflux for which I take medication and the osteoporosis meds seem to affect my reflux, also I have not felt well generally since I've been on the meds for osteoporosis, i.e. aching muscles and bone pain. I take Calcium with Vitamin D - I drink milk - are there any herbal or over-the-counter natural products that would be just as good as prescription medications for osteoporosis?

Public Comments

1. A health shop would probably advise you better.Ihave the sameproblem as you.
2. The Vitamin D-calcitonin system is complex. Well functioning kidneys, sunshine and weight bearing exercise, as well as a good source of Ca++ are the only non prescription things that really help. At maximum, people only absorb less than 20% of available calcium. Milk is not the best source, as there is competing phosphorus, which somewhat displaces the intestine's ability to absorb calcium. I would suggest the soft chew calcium supplements. Are you in a position to be able to hire a trainer for weight lifting? Not one of the high school jocks, but someone with physical therapy training? Yoga, or tai chi would be good, as improved balance lessens the chance of a disastrous fall.
3. I believe calcium and vitamin D is the only alternative augmented by non-contact weight bearing physiscal activity there are other medications such as PTH shots, this is recently approved by FDA for one year and helps for making new bone also you may ask your doctor about calcitonin, high dose vitamin D also is another option you might want to ask your doctor, there is alot of noise about it out there