Highlights
New Research
Soy. Soy products may reduce bone loss, particularly in young menopausal women. Researchers are not sure whether isoflavones, a chemical found in soy, are responsible for the apparent benefit. Soy may also reduce a woman’s risk of endometrial cancer and decrease plaque-related build up that leads to Alzheimer’s disease.
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Alcohol. Moderate wine consumption appears to boost bone mineral density (BMD) in men and women, respectively. Study findings released in late 2004 revealed that postmenopausal women who drank one to two glasses of wine daily improved their hip BMD by 5%. Resveratrol, a substance found in grapes and wine, may benefit bones.
Raloxifene. Raloxifene (Evista) can reduce invasive breast cancer recurrence by two-thirds in postmenopausal women.
Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT). Although HRT appears to reduce the risk of bone fractures, experts say its benefits to bone don’t outweigh its risks. Studies have found that HRT can increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, and dementia. A recent study found that patients on HRT also have poorer stroke outcomes.
Celiac disease. Researchers reporting in the Archives of Internal Medicine have found that patients with osteoporosis have a higher risk for celiac disease, a hereditary intolerance to the glutein protein found in wheat. The finding suggests that osteoporosis patients should be screened for the disease.
Drug Approvals
Alendronate (Fosamax) is now available in a once-a-week pill that also contains vitamin D.
Ibandronate (Boniva) now comes in a once-a-month dose.
Medication Risks
Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs) can offer relief from menopause symptoms, but they should be used with caution and under the advice of a doctor. Certain NSAIDs may increase one’s risk for cardiovascular problems and gastrointestinal bleeding.
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