In a recent episode of our podcast, we had the pleasure of hosting Kevin Ellis, also known as "The Bone Coach." Kevin is a Forbes-featured integrative health coach, podcaster, and the founder of BoneCoach.com. His mission is to empower millions to build stronger bones and ensure that future generations have a healthy foundation for long, active lives. In this episode, Kevin shared his personal journey with bone health and provided invaluable insights into osteopenia, osteoporosis, and the importance of a holistic approach to bone health.
Osteoporosis literally means "porous bone." It is characterized by insufficient bone formation, excessive bone loss, or a combination of both. This condition reduces both bone density and quality, increasing the risk of fractures. Osteopenia is a precursor to osteoporosis and indicates lower than normal bone density but not low enough to be classified as osteoporosis.
Osteopenia and osteoporosis are more common than many realize. While they are often associated with older women, men and younger individuals can also be affected. Kevin's personal story is a testament to this, as he was diagnosed with osteoporosis at a young age due to underlying health issues.
The first step in assessing bone health is to get objective data through a bone density scan, which can be done via a DEXA scan or a REMS test. These scans measure the mineral content of your bones. However, it’s essential to also consider bone quality and turnover, which many physicians overlook.
Bone turnover markers provide insight into your current bone health. Two key tests are:
These tests can show changes in bone turnover within weeks to months, unlike bone density scans, which take years to reflect changes.
Monitoring these markers allows for proactive management of bone health. If you see elevated bone loss markers, you can implement interventions and retest to track progress. This approach allows for timely adjustments to your health plan.
Standard treatment often consists of calcium, vitamin D, and a recommendation to avoid heavy lifting, with a follow-up in two years. Patients may also be prescribed osteoporosis medications, but many seek a more natural approach to building stronger bones. While Kevin advocates for holistic methods, he doesn’t dismiss the potential benefits of medication.
At Bone Coach, Kevin and his team help individuals access essential tests and track data over time to ensure effective interventions. They leverage their community size to negotiate better rates with labs, often reducing costs by 40-45%.
Bones are living tissues that require specific nutrients to maintain their structure. Here are some essential nutrients and their sources:
To effectively build and maintain bone, you need different types of stimuli:
Kevin discusses different categories of medications:
Kevin invites listeners to visit BoneCoach.com, where they can find a wealth of free resources aimed at improving bone health. He highlights the availability of a free osteoporosis kickstart guide, which provides essential information on what individuals should be doing to support their bone health. For those interested in a more personalized approach, Kevin mentions that there is an application process to work with his team of experts who specialize in osteoporosis prevention and reversal.
Kevin introduces the Osteo IQ Active Monitoring Test, a streamlined option for individuals to easily access the necessary tests without the usual hassle. This test is designed to simplify the process of tracking bone health, making it more accessible for those who need it.
Bone health is a dynamic process that requires a comprehensive and proactive approach. By understanding the importance of bone density and turnover markers, incorporating essential nutrients, engaging in appropriate exercises, and considering both holistic and medical treatment options, individuals can take charge of their bone health. Kevin Ellis, "The Bone Coach," provides invaluable resources and support to help individuals on their journey to stronger bones.
For more information and to access resources, visit BoneCoach.com.
