I've browsed through the existing threads, and haven't found all the information about bone loss in one place. So I thought I'd start a new thread.
I am in my 60's and have been injecting Everclear into my balls for the last several months. I have experienced shrinkage, hot flashes, and night sweats. So I expect I have my natural testosterone level down to castrate-level. I'm going soon to my primary care doctor, for lab tests, and then (I hope) referral to a urologist.
With that as background, I am concerned about preventing or minimizing bone loss. I'm focused on 2 things: measuring bone density and dietary supplements.
As to measuring bone density, I assume the thing to start with is a bone density scan, the sooner the better. I think women are routinely encouraged to have a scan, starting in their late 50's. By contrast, I have never had a doctor suggest a bone scan for me, anytime in my late 50's or now in my early 60's. I assume that's because bone loss is so common with post-menoposal women, and not so common with (uncastrated) men in the same age range. Do I get a bone density scan just by asking for one? I assume it would be good to have a baseline measurement, before any bone loss sets in. Do I just give the reason that it seems to me that I should have a scan to set a personal baseline?
Next, as to dietary supplements, I've seen plenty of posts that suggest calcium, magnesium, and Vitamin D. Several posters suggest that the calcium should be calcium citrate, not calcium carbonate. Is calcium citrate the preferred type of supplemental calcium to prevent bone loss?
Next, about magnesium, I've read posts that say the body cannot use calcium supplements without adding magnesium. Is that true? If so, what's the best form or source for supplemental magnesium?
Next, about Vitamin D, I've read posts that suggest taking a supplement that combines various types of Vitamin D. Others insist that you should take only D3. What's the story on Vitamin D?
I assume there are foods that are especially good sources for calcium, magnesium, and Vitamin D, and I plan to research that and be sure those foods are part of my regular diet. I assume that getting these things from food is always preferable to getting them in pill form.
I welcome any answers, comments, or suggestions. Thanks!