Did You Know There Are Two Types of Osteoporosis?

Osteoporosis can be categorized into two distinct types based on metabolic function:

Type I Osteoporosis – Fast Metabolizers

Type I is typically found in individuals with a fast metabolic rate. It primarily involves thinning of the cortex—the outer portion of the bone. In this type:

• The body loses its ability to properly absorb and retain calcium and magnesium, leading to deficiencies.

• Overactive thyroid and adrenal glands contribute to excessive calcium loss and increased phosphate retention.

• Parathyroid gland activity slows, causing osteoblasts (the cells responsible for building bone) to become inactive.

As a result, calcium supplements are often necessary to help support bone density in this type.

Type II Osteoporosis – Slow Metabolizers

Type II occurs in individuals with a slow metabolism. In this case:

• The parathyroid gland becomes overactive, increasing calcium absorption and retention but reducing phosphorus retention.

• This leads to calcium being pulled from the medullary bone (the inner portion), weakening the bone from the inside.

• The overactive parathyroid stimulates osteoclasts (cells that break down bone), further accelerating bone loss.

Excess calcium that can’t be deposited into bones ends up in soft tissues, leading to issues such as:

• Kidney stones

• Gallstones

• Joint stiffness

In this case, calcium supplementation would make the condition worse. Instead, the focus should be on restoring thyroid function and improving overall metabolic balance.

The Truth About Calcium

Most people—even many doctors—believe bones are mostly made of calcium. But in reality, bones require at least 12 different minerals to stay strong and healthy. Calcium is just one part of the equation, and having the right balance of minerals is what really matters.

If you take too much calcium—especially without balancing other key minerals—you can end up with:

• Plaque in your arteries

• Kidney stones

• Joint pain or stiffness

• Gallstones

• Muscle cramps

• Fatigue

• Hormonal imbalances

• Calcification in soft tissues

• And a whole host of other health issues

What You Can Do

To truly understand your mineral status and determine your metabolic type, it’s essential to get a Hair Tissue Mineral Analysis (HTMA). This test can guide a more personalized and effective approach to bone health—far beyond just calcium.

References

• Thompson, R., & Barnes, K. (2008). The Calcium Lie: What Your Doctor Doesn’t Know Could Kill You. Square One Publishers.

• Watts, D. L. (1997). Trace Elements and Other Essential Nutrients: Clinical Application of Tissue Mineral Analysis. Trace Elements, Inc.