Thalassemia Patients and Friends
Discussion Forums => Thalassemia Minor => Topic started by: Cmcr on March 24, 2018, 11:54:57 AM
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Hi All,
I have been trying to understand my osteoporosis for a long time. I have always wondered if having thalassemia could be a contributing factor. If thal does contribute to low bone density can someone explain how and what would be a way to counter that effect naturally if possible. I have had extensive testing and nothing really has been found. Vit D stays around 60, calcium normal. Thyroid tests all normal. Bone markers in normal range for my age. Homeostasis is low not high......So I am thinking thalesemia may be a reason. I am also very small framed which has me at a disadvantage from the start,
Appreciate any insight.
Thanks
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It is well established that thalassemia does cause osteo issues in the more severe forms of thal. I would imagine, like with most other issues, that it is a gray area in thal minor, but that thal minor is likely involved, due to diminished oxygen to the bone marrow.
In addition to the obvious vitamin D and calcium, both magnesium and vitamin B-12 are essential for bone growth. The discovery of the B-12 connection is rather recent, so many doctors are not aware of this. Studies have also shown that thal minors do better when their B-12 level is near the high end of normal. Research has also showed that vitamin D is much better absorbed when magnesium is also taken. I would also advise natural vitamin E for its ability to improve circulation and help deliver oxygen to tissue.
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Thank you good information. My Vitamin B12 was on the high side and my homostine below normal so I was going Eliminate vit B supplements to get the homostine up a little. I think I will leave it alone:). May be good for me just the way it is. I will check on what vit E I am taking and consider adding.