Dr. McCormick knows what potential dangers lurk for women and men who don't understand the life cycle of bone, who don't realize the role nutrition plays in bone health, who don't know what can happen to bone even when they think they're doing "everything right." In his mission to help readers — women and men, athletes and nonathletes, primary care physicians and specialists — Dr. McCormick explains not just the fundamentals of osteoporosis but also the pathophysiology of bone loss and what it takes to regain skeletal health. If you're a patient suffering from bone loss, Dr. McCormick helps you take control of your osteoporosis; if you're a doctor, he lays out the most up-to date science so you can best serve your patients. Great Bones is a book everyone can use to achieve better skeletal health well into their 70s, 80s, and beyond.
Comprehensive full of information about causes and possible approaches to tackling osteoporosis. He talks about the benefits and drawbacks of the various medications, how to look at your lab results for clues about dietary changes or supplements you might consider, exercise suggestions and just a lot of biology about bones in general. Huge index if you are into reading scientific papers. My only quibble is that the index is very frustrating. Terms are mentioned multiple times, but aren't in the index. I was reading the book in a place with no internet, and my paper dictionary did not have several of the words he used.
Recommended reading for anyone facing a diagnosis of Osteoporosis or even Osteopenia. Full of thoroughly researched incredibly detailed information on all the different factors that can contribute to bone loss and bone building. From recommended tests and their interpretation to information on different medications and lifestyle factors for treatment, the book outlines a roadmap if you're looking to play an active role in understanding and improving your bone health.
This is the best book I have read to identify and treat all causes of osteoporosis. It is long and gets into the science pretty heavily, so may not be the best reference for everyone. His earlier book is easier to read and may be a better place to start, but this one has a lot more information. I am a functional nutritionist helping people identify the root cause of their low bone density and improve their diet and lifestyle to reduce their risk of a fracture.
Know your risk by having a bone density (DXA) scan before you reach menopause. I can tell you where to get a free one in Indianapolis - contact me through KristyLombado.com. If you do have low bone density, do not just take calcium and vitamin D and wait 2 years to test again. Don't waste any time finding out what you can proactively do by working with a functional practitioner and how you can monitor your interventions. Consider natural treatments before taking medications whose risks are well explained in this book.