Protocol · Musculoskeletal
Osteoporosis Protocol
Vitamin D3, Calcium and Vitamin K2 (MK-7) are the core of this stack, with 4 supporting supplements. Each row gives the amount the protocol lists and the grade our evidence database holds for that supplement in Osteoporosis.
We are re-verifying the studies cited on protocol pages; only confirmed citations are shown.
The stack
7 supplements · 2 graded · 1 confirmed study
| Grade | Supplement | Amount listed | Why it’s in the stack | Evidence on file | Shop |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Primary stackThe core of this protocol | |||||
| Vitamin D3 | Amount listed: 2,000–4,000 IU daily (target 40–60 ng/mL) | Essential for calcium absorption; deficiency causes secondary hyperparathyroidism and bone loss
| Grade B for Bone Mineral Density2 studies · 5,522 people | ||
| Calcium | Amount listed: 1,000–1,200 mg daily (from diet + supplements, divided doses) | Primary mineral component of bone matrix; adequate intake reduces bone resorption | Not graded yet | ||
| Vitamin K2 (MK-7) | Amount listed: 100–200 mcg daily | Activates osteocalcin for calcium deposition in bone; prevents arterial calcification
| Grade B for Bone Mineral Density18 studies · 4,800 people | ||
Confirmed studies for Vitamin K2 (MK-7) (titles as PubMed lists them) | |||||
| Supporting stackListed as additions to the core | |||||
| Magnesium | Amount listed: 400–500 mg daily | 50-60% of body magnesium is in bone; needed for vitamin D activation and PTH function | Not graded yet | ||
| Collagen Peptides | Amount listed: 10–15 g daily | Provides amino acids for bone matrix; may stimulate osteoblast activity | Not graded yet | ||
| Strontium (low dose) | Amount listed: 680 mg strontium citrate daily (separate from calcium) | Incorporates into bone matrix; may stimulate osteoblasts and inhibit osteoclasts | Not graded yet | ||
| Boron | Amount listed: 3–6 mg daily | Reduces urinary calcium and magnesium loss; supports vitamin D metabolism | Not graded yet | ||
Shop the evidence-backed picks
The collection holds the supplements we grade A or B for its theme, in third-party tested products where the catalog has them. It opens in our Fullscript store. You can look through it without signing in; Fullscript asks for a free account to order.
Or shop one supplement
The 2 supplements in this protocol graded A or B. Each opens third-party tested products, matched to the dose above where we can.
- Grade B
- Grade B
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How this protocol works
In plain language
Osteoporosis occurs when bone breakdown exceeds bone formation, leading to fragile bones and fracture risk. This protocol provides the essential nutrients for maintaining and rebuilding bone.
- Vitamin D is absolutely essential—without adequate vitamin D, you only absorb 10-15% of dietary calcium instead of 30-40%. Most people with osteoporosis are deficient. Target blood level: 40-60 ng/mL.
- Calcium provides the raw material for bone. The key is getting 1000-1200mg total daily from diet plus supplements, taken in divided doses (no more than 500mg at once for best absorption).
- Vitamin K2 (MK-7) directs calcium into bones and teeth rather than arteries. It activates osteocalcin, the protein that binds calcium to bone matrix. K2 also prevents the vascular calcification that can occur with calcium supplementation.
- Magnesium is often overlooked—over half of your body's magnesium is in bone. It's needed to convert vitamin D to its active form and for proper parathyroid function.
- Collagen peptides provide the protein scaffold that minerals attach to. Studies show improved bone density with daily collagen.
- Strontium can substitute for calcium in bone, potentially improving density. Use nutritional doses, not pharmaceutical ranelate.
- Boron helps retain calcium and works with vitamin D.
Critical: Weight-bearing exercise is essential. These supplements support but don't replace bisphosphonates if indicated.
Expected timeline: Bone density changes take 1-2 years to measure. Focus on consistent, long-term intake.