Free Republic

In a research review, the researchers found that prunes can help prevent or delay bone loss in postmenopausal women, possibly due to their ability to reduce inflammation and oxidative stress, both of which contribute to bone loss. "In postmenopausal women, lower levels of estrogen can trigger a rise of oxidative stress and inflammation, increasing the risk of weakening bones that may lead to fractures," said Connie Rogers, associate professor. "Fruits and vegetables that are rich in bioactive compounds such as phenolic acid, flavonoids and carotenoids can potentially help protect against osteoporosis," said Mary Jane De Souza, professor, "with prunes in...

IL-6 family proteins can promote inflammation, arthritis, autoimmune disease and even cancer. However, a study reveals the importance of IL-6 and associated genes for maintaining and regenerating cartilage in both the joints and in the growth plates that enable skeletal growth in children. "We show that the IL-6 family, previously associated with arthritis, bone and muscle loss, and other chronic inflammatory diseases, is required for the maintenance of skeletal stem and progenitor cells, and for the healthy growth and function of the joints and spine," said author Denis Evseenko. "Our study establishes a link between inflammation and regeneration, and may...

RADIATION CAUSES BONE LOSS The scientific world has been shaken by a report from Clemson University that a single therapeutic dose of radiation can cause appreciable bone loss. Senior author Ted Bateman, PhD, a professor of bioengineering, and his South Carolina colleagues showed that when mice were given a dose of just two Gy (two gray, a radiation dosage formerly designated as 200 rads), between 29 and 39 percent of their interior bone mass was destroyed.It did not particularly matter which kind of radiation the mice were exposed to. Gamma rays, protons, high-speed carbon and iron nuclei all had a...

If new studies are right, some birth control pills may do more than just prevent pregnancy. They could stop new bone from being made. Reporting in the October 2001 issue of the Canadian Medical Association Journal, doctors said women who take birth control pills have a slightly lower bone density than non-users. "At this point we don't know why we found these differences," said lead study author Dr. Jerilynn Prior, professor of endocrinology and metabolism at the University of British Columbia. She said earlier studies have shown some similar results. "Some suggest early use of OC [oral contraceptives] cause less...