I’m not one to jump on supplement bandwagons, but when my doctor raised concerns about my bone density, I knew I had to act. AlgaeCal Plus and Strontium Boost caught my eye with their bold claims of not just slowing bone loss but actually building stronger bones.
As someone who’s navigated the maze of health supplements, I was skeptical yet intrigued. These products promise a natural, plant-based approach to bone health, and after months of use, I can say they’re worth considering. If you’re worried about osteoporosis or osteopenia, read on—I think you’ll want to try this duo.
My Experience With AlgaeCal Plus and Strontium Boost
When I first heard about AlgaeCal Plus and Strontium Boost, I was at a crossroads.
My latest DEXA scan showed I was teetering on the edge of osteopenia, and the idea of brittle bones scared me.
I’m 58, active, and love hiking with my dog, but the fear of a fall breaking a hip was real.
I’d tried calcium supplements before, but they left me bloated and didn’t seem to do much. AlgaeCal’s promise of a plant-based calcium source from marine algae, packed with 16 bone-supporting nutrients, sounded different.
Strontium Boost, with its claims of tripling bone density gains when paired with AlgaeCal Plus, sealed the deal for me.
I started with the Bone Builder Pack, which includes both products.
The routine was straightforward: four capsules of AlgaeCal Plus daily (two with breakfast, two with dinner) and two Strontium Boost capsules before bed, at least two hours after my last meal. The capsules were easy to swallow, though I sometimes sprinkled the AlgaeCal powder into my morning smoothie when I was in a rush—it’s tasteless and blends well. The first few weeks, I didn’t notice much, but I wasn’t expecting miracles overnight. By month three, I felt a subtle shift. My joints felt less creaky during my hikes, and I had more energy, though I couldn’t pin it entirely on the supplements.
After six months, I went for another DEXA scan, and the results were encouraging: a 2.3% increase in bone density in my spine and a 1.8% bump in my hips. Not life-changing numbers, but my doctor was impressed, especially since I’d avoided prescription meds. I did experience mild bloating initially, but tweaking my diet—more water, less dairy—helped. The AlgaeCal Community on Facebook was a game-changer; connecting with others using the products gave me tips and motivation. One user suggested pairing the supplements with weight-bearing exercises, which I incorporated, and I think it made a difference. I’m not out of the woods yet, but I’m hopeful and sticking with it. My journey with these supplements has been about patience and consistency, and so far, it’s paying off.
Read More: My Thoughts On Boosted Pro Dietary Supplement
Pros Of AlgaeCal Plus and Strontium Boost
- Plant-Based and Natural Ingredients: AlgaeCal Plus comes from Lithothamnium superpositum, a marine algae harvested sustainably from the Atlantic. Unlike chalky calcium carbonate pills, it feels like I’m nourishing my body with something closer to food. The addition of vitamins D3, K2, C, and boron, plus trace minerals like magnesium and zinc, makes it a comprehensive bone-health package. Strontium Boost’s natural strontium citrate feels less synthetic than prescription alternatives.
- Clinically Backed Results: Studies, like one published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition, show AlgaeCal Plus can increase bone density by 1-2% in six months, and up to 4% when combined with Strontium Boost. My own DEXA scan results align with this, giving me confidence in the science. The company’s seven-year study showing consistent bone density gains is reassuring for long-term use.
- Minimal Side Effects for Most: I only had mild bloating at first, which subsided. Many users report no issues, and the natural formulation avoids the harsh side effects of bisphosphonates, like jaw necrosis or esophageal irritation. It’s a gentler option for those sensitive to medications.
- Money-Back Guarantee: AlgaeCal offers a one-year satisfaction guarantee and a seven-year bone density increase guarantee. If your DEXA scan shows no improvement after six months, they’ll refund double your purchase. This gave me peace of mind when I started, knowing I wasn’t locked into a risky investment.
- Community Support and Resources: The AlgaeCal Community on Facebook is a goldmine. I connected with users like Julie, who saw a 12.9% spine density increase, and learned practical tips, like timing my doses for better absorption. Their website also offers recipes and exercise guides tailored for bone health, which kept me engaged.
Cons Of AlgaeCal Plus and Strontium Boost
- High Cost: Let’s be real—the price stings. A six-month supply of the Bone Builder Pack can set you back hundreds of dollars. For someone on a fixed income, this isn’t pocket change. I’ve had to budget carefully, and it’s frustrating that such a promising product isn’t more affordable.
- Time Commitment for Results: Bone health isn’t a quick fix. It took six months to see measurable changes in my DEXA scan, and some users report needing a year or more. If you’re impatient like I can be, the wait can feel discouraging, especially when you’re shelling out serious cash.
- Potential Interactions: Strontium Boost can interact with medications like antibiotics or thyroid drugs if not timed properly. I had to be diligent about taking it two hours after meals or other supplements, which was a hassle. If you’re on multiple meds, you’ll need to check with your doctor.
- Mixed User Feedback: While I had a positive experience, not everyone does. Some users, like Clive from Richmond, reported minimal changes after months of use, questioning the cost-to-benefit ratio. Others experienced digestive issues or, in rare cases, allergic reactions, like welts, which made me cautious.
- DEXA Scan Overestimation: Strontium can make bones appear denser on DEXA scans because it’s heavier than calcium, potentially skewing results. My doctor warned me about this, and while studies suggest strontium still reduces fracture risk, it’s a bit unsettling to wonder how accurate my scans are.
Tips For AlgaeCal Plus and Strontium Boost
- Stick to a Consistent Schedule: I found taking AlgaeCal Plus with meals (two capsules twice daily) and Strontium Boost before bed works best. Set reminders on your phone to avoid missing doses, as consistency is key for bone-building nutrients to do their job. Missing days here and there can slow your progress.
- Separate Calcium and Strontium: Strontium and calcium compete for absorption, so I take Strontium Boost at least two hours after my last meal or AlgaeCal dose. I usually pop it right before brushing my teeth at night. This small habit maximizes the benefits of both supplements.
- Pair with a Bone-Healthy Diet: I’ve upped my intake of leafy greens, nuts, and fatty fish to complement the supplements. Foods rich in vitamin K, magnesium, and omega-3s support bone health. Avoid overloading on dairy or calcium-rich foods close to your Strontium dose to prevent absorption issues.
- Incorporate Weight-Bearing Exercise: I started doing 30-minute walks five days a week and added light strength training with dumbbells. The AlgaeCal Community shared Dr. Fishman’s yoga poses for bone health, which I’ve tried. These exercises stimulate bone growth and enhance the supplements’ effects.
- Monitor with Regular Check-Ups: Get a baseline DEXA scan before starting and follow up every six months to track progress. I also get my vitamin D and calcium levels checked via blood tests every six months to ensure I’m not overdoing it. Consult your doctor to adjust doses if needed.
Comparison With Other Brands
- Citracal: Citracal’s calcium citrate is a popular choice, and I’ve tried it in the past. It’s more affordable than AlgaeCal and absorbs well without food, which is convenient. However, it lacks the broad spectrum of nutrients in AlgaeCal Plus, like vitamin K2 or boron, which direct calcium to bones rather than arteries. Citracal slowed my bone loss but never increased density like AlgaeCal did. It’s a solid budget option, but if you’re aiming for bone growth, it feels incomplete compared to the comprehensive formula of AlgaeCal Plus and Strontium Boost.
- Nature Made: Nature Made’s calcium supplements are widely available and dirt cheap, which is tempting. I used their calcium with vitamin D for a year, but it caused constipation and didn’t move the needle on my DEXA scans. Nature Made doesn’t offer strontium or the trace minerals found in AlgaeCal, so it’s more about maintenance than rebuilding. Their products are reliable and third-party tested, but they lack the clinical backing for increasing bone density, making AlgaeCal’s targeted approach more appealing for serious bone health concerns.
- Osteo Bi-Flex:Osteo Bi-Flex focuses on joint health with glucosamine and chondroitin, but it’s not a direct competitor for bone density. I tried it for knee pain, and while it helped with mobility, it didn’t address my bone density issues. AlgaeCal Plus and Strontium Boost are specifically designed for bone-building, with studies showing actual density increases. Osteo Bi-Flex is great for joint support, but if your primary concern is osteoporosis or osteopenia, AlgaeCal’s bone-focused formula and strontium component give it a clear edge.
- Garden of Life: Garden of Life’s Vitamin Code Raw Calcium is another plant-based option, which I considered before AlgaeCal. It’s packed with raw, whole-food nutrients and probiotics, which I liked for gut health. However, it doesn’t include strontium, and its calcium dose is lower than AlgaeCal Plus’s 720 mg daily. My DEXA results with AlgaeCal were better than what I’d expect from Garden of Life, though it’s a good alternative for those avoiding strontium or seeking a vegan-friendly option. AlgaeCal’s clinical studies and guarantee tipped the scales for me.
- Aquamin: Aquamin, another algae-based calcium, is closer to AlgaeCal in concept. I looked into it because it’s derived from red algae and contains trace minerals. However, Aquamin’s studies focus more on joint and digestive health than bone density increases. AlgaeCal’s combination with Strontium Boost and its specific focus on bone-building nutrients gave me more confidence. Aquamin is cheaper and widely used in other supplements, but without the strontium component or AlgaeCal’s robust clinical data, it feels less targeted for my osteoporosis concerns.
Read More: My Thoughts On Boost Up Capsules
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Strontium Boost, containing strontium citrate, is generally considered safe for most people when taken as directed (680 mg daily). Clinical studies, including a seven-year trial, show no significant adverse effects when paired with AlgaeCal Plus. However, high doses (above 680 mg) may harm bones, and those with kidney issues or on certain medications should consult a doctor. I had no major issues, but I checked with my physician first, especially since I take thyroid meds. Always discuss with your healthcare provider to ensure it’s safe for you.
Side effects are rare but can include mild digestive issues like bloating or constipation, which I experienced briefly. Some users report allergic reactions, like welts, though I didn’t. Strontium can interact with medications like antibiotics or antacids, so timing is crucial. In rare cases, high doses or improper use may affect bone health negatively. I avoided issues by following the dosing instructions and separating it from my other supplements. If you notice unusual symptoms, stop and talk to your doctor.
Yes, taking them together is recommended for optimal results. Studies show that combining AlgaeCal Plus with Strontium Boost can triple bone density increases compared to AlgaeCal alone, with gains up to 4% annually. I take them as directed—AlgaeCal with meals, Strontium at bedtime—and saw a 2.3% density increase in six months. They work synergistically, with strontium boosting bone-building while AlgaeCal provides essential nutrients. Just ensure a two-hour gap between doses to avoid absorption competition.
Based on my experience and research, yes, it can. Clinical studies, like those published in 2011 and 2016, show AlgaeCal Plus increases bone density by 1-2% in six months, and up to 7.3% over seven years with Strontium Boost. My 2.3% spine density increase aligns with these findings. However, results vary—some users see minimal change, and strontium may inflate DEXA readings slightly. Consistency, diet, and exercise are crucial to maximize benefits, but the science and my results make me a believer.
Conclusion: For AlgaeCal Plus and Strontium Boost
If you’re staring down osteoporosis or osteopenia like I was, AlgaeCal Plus and Strontium Boost are worth a shot. They’re not cheap, and results take time, but the natural ingredients, clinical backing, and my own DEXA scan improvements make them stand out. Pair them with a solid diet and exercise, and you’re giving your bones a fighting chance. I’m sticking with them, and I think you should consider them too—your future self might thank you for stronger, healthier bones.