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Mobility/Women/Longevity

Strontium

Trace mineral used for bone health, with most evidence coming from prescription strontium ranelate in older women.

Strontium

Strontium

47
score
C
evidence
Caution
risk
Quick Take

Not a general wellness supplement — bone data exist, but mostly for prescription ranelate and with real safety caveats.

Strontium is a trace element found in small amounts in seafood, whole grains, and some vegetables. In bone, it can partly substitute for calcium and shift remodeling toward more formation and less resorption. Human evidence centers on prescription strontium ranelate, which reduces vertebral fracture risk and improves bone outcomes in postmenopausal osteoporosis; some trials also suggest slower knee osteoarthritis progression. Adults with low bone density under medical guidance are the group most likely to benefit.

Proven Benefits

01
Reduces vertebral fractures
02
Supports bone mineral density
03
Lowers nonvertebral fractures
04
May slow knee OA progression
05
May reduce knee OA pain
06
May lower bone loss markers

Protocol

Amount
680 mg elemental strontium
Frequency
Once daily
When
Empty stomach or at bedtime, at least 2 hours after food, dairy, calcium, or other minerals.

Onset Time

6-12 months for bone outcomes; knee OA effects, if any, take months

Who Should Consider

Postmenopausal women with low bone density
Older adults under clinician-guided bone monitoring
People exploring options after intolerance to standard bone

Food Sources

  • Shellfish and other seafood (amount varies widely by source)
  • Whole grains (small amounts; highly variable by soil)
  • Root vegetables (small amounts; highly variable by soil)
  • Drinking water in some regions (content varies widely)

How It Works

Strontium is incorporated into bone mineral and appears to stimulate osteoblast activity while reducing osteoclast-driven bone resorption. It also attenuates X-rays more than calcium, so DEXA scans can overstate true bone density gains.

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