Recently, Science Daily reported that a widely used traditional Chinese herb called red sage could be the miracle substance that could treat osteoporosis without any side effects. Needless to say, these findings gave new hope to those living with the condition – more precisely, more than 200 million people of whom over 50% are women. But that’s not all; bok choy, also known as Chinese cabbage, made headlines too, after it’s been proven that it can aid, as well as prevent osteoporosis altogether, mainly due to the minerals and antioxidants found in it. 
Red sage prevents the breakdown of collagen in bones
A well-known scientific fact is that as we age, we slowly but surely lose collagen. The drop in collagen levels is about 1% each year in our 20s, but this percentage drastically increases after the age of 30. Consequently, once we enter our 50s and 60s, collagen levels are at a drastic low which is nowhere near good for overall bone health, and especially not for individuals dealing with osteoporosis. However, the good news is, researchers have been able to derive a compound from red sage that can prevent (or block) collagen breakdown in bone tissue. The enzyme that has been causing the most trouble is called Cathepsin K or CatK. The reason why this breakthrough is such great news is because doctors are now able to selectively block this enzyme (CatK), and slow down bone degradation.
Dr. Brömme and Preety Panwar, leaders of the research team explained, “Enzyme blockers work like keys in locks. CatK is a multifunctional enzyme … and we think completely blocking it is what causes unexpected side effects in other drugs,” said Panwar. Brömme continually added, “Our compound only locks the collagen – degrading CatK activity, preventing the unregulated breakdown of collagen in bones without any other negative impacts.”
Needless to say, there’s much to celebrate as there are very few treatments out there that have no side effects whatsoever.
Bok choy – the one vegetable osteoporosis patients ought to add to their diet
According to studies, bok choy is rich in minerals such as calcium, magnesium, zinc, and iron, which play a major role in aiding bone health. Research suggests that consuming bok choy on a regular basis not only helps treat bone tissue deterioration, but can also help prevent it at a young age. Another rare vitamin found in this vegetable is vitamin K which can help prevent bone fractures, especially in elderly women.
Another breakthrough in osteoporosis treatment is a substance called selective androgen receptor modulators or SARMs. It can also be found under the name of osatrine sarms. Similarly to the previously mentioned substances, osatrine sarms can slow down osteoporosis and even prevent frailty syndrome. Thus a healthy, bok-choy-rich diet combined with osatrine sarms can give amazing results; however, patients are advised to seek advice from their physician first before taking matters into their own hands.
Vitamins that complement and interfere with vitamin K
As previously mentioned, one of the most potent nutrients found in bok choy is vitamin K. The reason why it is so essential for bone health is because this is the substance that activates proteins that are involved in bone formation and mineralization. In other words, this is what helps create strong bones. While vitamin K goes well with zinc, vitamin D, magnesium, and osatrine sarms, other vitamins and minerals may not complement vitamin K. One such vitamin is vitamin E – it actually interferes with vitamin K. More research in this area is needed, but so far, what we know is that in some cases, the interaction of the two substance can (in the worst case scenario) lead to blood clots.
How much vitamin K should one take in a day?
According to research and medical professionals, most healthy adults should take approximately 1 microgram of Vitamin K per day – that is, 1 mcg for each kilogram of their body weight. So for instance, if someone weighs 65 kilograms, they would need 65 micrograms of vitamin K per day. However, this amount may vary depending on a number of factors like gender, age, and health. If a man or woman has been diagnosed with osteoporosis, they would have to seek advice from a professional in the field, who’ll be able to advise them according to their unique needs.
Are bok choy supplements a good alternative?
If for some reason you are unable to consume bok choy raw, blended or cooked, supplements could be a great alternative. Most often these supplements will contain other vitamins, like vitamin D and C, which will only enhance vitamin K’s efficiency. The quantity and quality of these supplements is best determined by your doctor who knows the specifics and severity of your condition.
Osteoporosis is a condition that over 200 million people live with – the majority of them women; but, what’s encouraging is that great strides have been made towards finding suitable treatment options, and the latest ones definitely give reason to celebrate because their side effects are minimal or practically nonexistent.
