One of the greatest disappearing acts I know is the idea that hormone replacement therapy (HRT) helps reduce long-term bone fracture risk. HRT and osteoporosis have a link.
That’s because while much has been made of the positive effects of hormone therapy on bone, the truth is that any improvements are short-term only and stop once the hormone therapy itself is stopped.
Recently, Spanish researchers once again proved this when they found HRT use in early menopause offered no protection from spinal fractures.
HRT and osteoporosis – spinal fracture risk may increase
What’s more, the researchers revealed even more about the negative aspects of HRT for our bones. Looking back 20 years, they discovered women who had taken hormone therapy in early menopause actually experienced more spinal fractures as they aged than did women who never used HRT.
This is yet another reason why I highly recommend you do not rely on past use of hormone replacement therapy when it comes to protecting your bones against fracture. HRT and osteoporosis have been connected.
The real way to reduce long-term bone fracture risk
For bone strength that isn’t simply an illusion, I encourage you to develop a comprehensive natural, life-long approach to building and maintaining bone strength—one which works with nature to create lifelong healthy bones.
For at-home guidance on exercise, nutrition and lifestyle changes, and supplements that provide long-term positive results, my Better Bones Health Programs are a good place to start. If you are looking for more information about HRT in general, I suggest you explore the Hormone Replacement Therapy section of Women’s Health Network.
Reference:
Castelo-Branco, C., J. Davila, M. F. Perelló, A. Peguero, C. Ros, M. J. MartÃnez-Serrano, and J. Balasch. 2014. Long-term effect of hormone therapy on bone in early menopause: Vertebral fractures after 20 years. Climacteric. DOI: 10.3109/13697137.2013.871511.
To understand the underlying bone health picture, visit our natural osteoporosis support guide.
