Published by the Dr. Rath Health Foundation. All rights reserved. Individual pages of this brochure can be copied for private and noncommercial purposes only. Any direct or indirect commercial use of this brochure or its parts in any way is strictly forbidden without the written permission of the authors.
INTRODUCTION
The bones of the skeletal system are the pillars of our body. Maintaining healthy bones is crucial for our general well-being, as they support our weight, protect sensitive organs and, in conjunction with muscles and joints, enable every movement.
Over the course of a lifetime, a variety of factors can weaken our bones and impair their function. Aging, lack of exercise, hormonal changes, unhealthy diet, and various diseases have a detrimental effect on the stability of our bones. The consequences include bone fractures, limited mobility, chronic pain, and a reduced quality of life.
However, we can support and maintain the health of our bones with a few simple but effective measures. Scientific advances in the field of natural health research, combined with a healthy lifestyle, provide us with the essential tools to create a solid foundation for our bone health.
This brochure provides valuable insights into the structure and function of our bones, shows which factors can affect them, and explains how we can maintain healthy bone function in the long term. A key focus here is on the scientific findings of the Dr. Rath Research Institute for Cellular Medicine, one of the world‘s leading centers for micronutrient research. The Institute’s research has shown that providing the body with an early and optimal supply of vitamins, minerals, and other micronutrients (or ‘cellular nutrients’) is the key to strong and resilient bones that will carry us safely through life.
OUR BONES: A COMPLEX AND LIVING STRUCTURE
We usually start to think about our bones when we are faced with sports accidents, falls, or simple mishaps such as tripping while walking, which can lead to bone injuries that put us out of action for weeks or even months. It is at these moments of misfortune that we realize how important healthy bones are in our everyday life, as they are needed for every movement we make.
But bones do much more than that. They are highly specialized organs with diverse functions, perfectly adapted in shape and size to their respective tasks. For example, there are the tiny auditory ossicles in the middle ear that are responsible for sound transmission. In contrast, there is the massive femur, the thigh bone, which is the longest and strongest bone and carries a large part of the body’s weight. Other bones, such as the flat and curved ribs, protect our heart and lungs. Bones also protect the production of blood cells in the bone marrow and are the largest stores of minerals such as calcium and phosphorus, which are essential
for many bodily functions. Let’s take a closer look at the masterpiece that is the bone.
THE DIFFERENT TYPES OF BONES IN OUR BODY
The human skeleton comprises around 210 bones. They can be categorized into six different types according to their shape or structure:
• Bones containing air-filled spaces: Bones with air-filled cavities are mainly found in the skull. Examples include the upper jawbone and the frontal bone. These cavities reduce the weight of the bones, minimizing the strain on the cervical spine. Airfilled bones are also important as resonators for the voice.
• Short bones: These are small, compact bones that are usually cube shaped or cylindrical. Examples are the wrist bones and short bones in the foot (tarsal bones) that make up the ankle and hindfoot. Thanks to their connections with neighboring bones, they enable precise, multidirectional movements of our hands and feet.
• Long bones (tubular bones): These include the femur, humerus, ulna, radius, tibia, fibula, metacarpals, and
metatarsals. They consist of a long shaft (diaphysis) between two rounded ends (epiphyses). Thanks to their elongated shape, they provide optimal support for our muscles during movement and activity. Inside these bones are medullary cavities that contain the red bone marrow responsible for blood formation.
• Plate bones: These include flat bones such as the shoulder blade, the sternum, and the ribs. They protect internal organs, provide attachment surfaces for muscles, and support the body.
• Sesamoid bones: These are small bones embedded within tendons. They act as spacers between the tendon and surrounding bones, increasing the leverage of the tendon. Additionally, they protect the tendons from excessive wear by reducing friction between the tendon and neighboring bones. The largest sesamoid bone is the patella, or kneecap.
• Irregular bones: These have an irregular shape and fulfill special functions, such as the protection of nerve tissue by the vertebral arch that surrounds the spinal cord.
FRONTAL BONE (bone with air-filled cavities)
PATELLA (sesamoid bone)
RADIUS (long bone)
STERNUM (plate bone)
VERTEBRAE (irregular bone)
TARSAL BONES (short bones)
Bones can also be classified according to their origin:
• C overing, supporting or connective tissue bones: These are formed by the remodeling of connective tissue over time. They include the flat bones of the skull, clavicle, and cranium.
• Replacement bones (cartilage bones): These include the bones of the spine, the pelvic girdle, the shoulder girdle (except for the collarbone) and the bones of the arms and legs. Replacement bones are formed by the transformation of cartilage tissue into bone.
HOW ARE BONES STRUCTURED?
All bones are surrounded by a layer of periosteum, which is rich in blood vessels and nerve fibers essential to supply the bones with oxygen and nutrients, transmit pain signals and support the regeneration of bone tissue.
Examples of the six types of bone in the human skeleton
Under the periosteum is the bone cortex (corticalis), which provides protection and strength for the bone. Depending on the mechanical load on the bone it can be several millimeters thick and is then referred to as the compacta or compact bone.
The interior of the bone appears as a spongy structure, which consists of lattice-like arrangements of bone cells (osteocytes) known as trabeculae. It aids in reducing bone weight and density and is commonly found at the ends of long bones, ribs, skull, and vertebrae. The spongy bone contains the red bone marrow in which the blood cells are formed, and the yellow bone marrow, which is rich in fat cells.
WHAT ARE BONES MADE OF?
Bone tissue consists of organic material (collagen) and inorganic minerals (calcium phosphate). It contains living bone cells embedded in the organic basic substance of the bones, the bone matrix. Bone tissue also contains water.
Bone is composed of three important types of cells: osteoblasts, which build new bone; osteoclasts, which break down old bone; and osteocytes, which develop from osteoblasts and play a key role in maintaining the bone matrix. The bone matrix is built on a framework of collagen fibers , which provide strength and elasticity, and minerals
BONE STRUCTURE
Yellow bone marrow
Medullary cavity
Cartilage Blood vessel Periosteum Compact bone
Spongy bone Epiphyseal line
Red bone marrow SPONGY BONE
such as calcium phosphate and magnesium, which make up about 65 percent of bone tissue and contribute to its hardness. Thanks to this special composition of organic and inorganic components, bones are flexible and at the same time so strong that they can withstand different mechanical stresses (e.g., twisting or pressure).
OUR BONES ARE CONSTANTLY CHANGING
Although bone looks like an inert tissue, it is constantly changing and remodeling during our life by forming new bone and breaking down existing structures. This natural process of regeneration also enables the bone to adapt to changing demands such as physical activity, one-sided stress or healing after fractures.
The rapid growth of bones during early childhood slows down around age two but continues until the growth plates close in the late teens or early twenties. However, while bones stop growing in length, they can increase in mass when subjected to stress, such as during weight training. The process of bone formation predominates until around the age of 30, when bone mass reaches its peak. After the age of 40,
bone resorption gradually increases, leading to a gradual loss of bone mass as we age.
Throughout our lives, various hormones and organs are involved in regulating the formation and breakdown of bones. In addition, specific nutrients such as vitamin C, vitamin D, and minerals play an important role, which will be discussed in the next section of this brochure.
HOW IS BONE METABOLISM REGULATED?
The most important hormones influencing bone metabolism and mineralization are parathyroid hormone, calcitonin, and calcitriol. Additionally, bone metabolism is affected by estrogen, testosterone, and vitamins D and C, among other factors.
Calcitonin, released by the thyroid, lowers blood calcium levels by inhibiting the activity of bone-resorbing osteoclasts, reducing calcium release from bones into the bloodstream. It also promotes mineral storage in bones.
Calcitriol is a hormone formed in the kidneys from vitamin D3 (cholecalciferol). It helps to build bone by stimulating the activity of osteoblasts.
Estrogen (in women) and testosterone (in men) are crucial for maintaining bone mass in adulthood, as they stimulate the activity of osteoblasts and thus have a bone-building effect.
Parathyroid hormone (PTH) is an antagonist of calcitonin. It activates osteoclasts, which promote the breakdown of bone substance and release calcium and phosphate from the bones into the bloodstream. Too much calcium in the blood may indicate an overactive parathyroid gland.
Bone metabolism is also influenced by nutrients, particularly vitamins C and D3. Vitamin C, along with the amino acids lysine and proline, is essential for collagen synthesis, while vitamin D3 facilitates calcium absorption in the intestine, as well as its uptake and storage in bones.
On the following pages you can find out more about the important contribution that vitamins and other micronutrients can make to bone health.
COLLAGEN: THE INTERNAL FRAMEWORK OF
OUR BONES
Collagen is the most abundant protein in the body and a major component of connective tissue. In bones, it forms a major part of the organic matrix, providing a framework for the deposition of calcium and other minerals that harden the structure.
The main collagen in bone tissue is type I, which forms long, twisted fibers that provide bone with its strength and flexibility. Properly structured collagen, stabilized by hydrogen bonds between its two most abundant amino acids, lysine and proline, is stronger than a steel wire of comparable thickness. The synthesis of collagen and its biological structure require vitamin C, along with vitamin B6 and copper, as important cofactors. Minerals such as calcium phosphate are deposited along the collagen fibers, contributing to bone hardness.
Proline and lysine not only contribute to the stability of collagen, but also protect it by blocking collagen-digesting enzymes such as matrix metalloproteinases. In this way, these amino acids prevent the enzymatic breakdown of collagen.
The human body cannot itself produce vitamin C or lysine, and relies on a sufficient supply of these micronutrients in the diet or through supplements. A deficiency of these essential nutrients can impair collagen synthesis, making bones susceptible to fracture or deformation. The body can synthesize proline, but only to a limited extent.
Collagen is essential for the health of our bones. Without this protein, bones would be brittle and break easily. Although minerals make bones hard, it is collagen that gives them the tensile strength to be able to respond to mechanical stress without breaking the bone structure.
Amino acid
Collagen molecule
Collagen fiber
COMMON BONE DISORDERS
Throughout life, various factors can disrupt bone metabolism and contribute to bone damage or disease. These include aging, hormonal changes, and metabolic disorders. However, the most significant risk factor for bone problems is a chronic deficiency of key micronutrients, which can accelerate excessive mineral loss from bone tissue. This weakens the bones, making them more fragile, painful, and prone to fractures. Understanding the true causes of bone loss and how to counteract it is essential for fostering a positive perception of bone health. Some skeletal conditions arise as the aging body attempts to correct biochemical imbalances. However, bone disease is not a fixed condition but rather a reflection of the bones’ current state—one that can be influenced through targeted natural interventions. This also applies to osteoporosis and osteomalacia, two of the most common bone disorders.
OSTEOPOROSIS (BONE LOSS)
An osteoporosis diagnosis can be particularly distressing, as many people have a limited understanding of bone
remodeling and the factors that affect it. Patients often feel that osteoporosis is driven by factors beyond their control, such as age, gender, or genetics. While these do play a role, however, the good news is that the condition can be actively managed—and even improved— through a combination of dietary adjustments, physical activity, and other health-conscious habits.
Osteoporosis is the most common bone disease, affecting around one in three women and one in five men over the age of 50 worldwide. It leads to a progressive loss of bone tissue and a decrease in bone density. While everyone’s bone density naturally decreases with age, in people with osteoporosis this loss is much more severe and rapid than normal. The loss of bone density accelerates with menopause, which typically begins in women around the age of 50. This is associated with a reduction in hormone production, particularly estrogen, a major contributor to bone health.
Another factor, as shown in several studies, may be an age-related increase in parathyroid hormone, which promotes the removal of calcium from the bones. In older individuals, this may result from renal insufficiency, low dietary intake of calcium and vitamin D, or a decrease in
the renal hydroxylation of vitamin D. In addition to vitamin D deficiency, certain prescription medications can also impair calcium absorption in the gut.
The nutrient deficiencies that are common in older people are in fact an important aspect of osteoporosis. Metabolic changes associated with aging increase the body’s need for essential nutrients, such as vitamins and minerals, including calcium and magnesium.
Adequate intake of these minerals is crucial not only for protecting bones, but also for maintaining vital functions such as regulating heartbeat and supporting the nervous system. When these minerals are lacking, the body draws on its calcium and magnesium reserves in the bones. While this ‘emergency’ measure helps to maintain optimal levels of these minerals in the blood, it gradually weakens the bone structure, making them brittle and more prone to frac -
Depiction of an osteocyte, a specialized bone cell that regulates bone metabolism. It signals bone formation and resorption, playing a crucial role in maintaining bone density.
Good to know!
Vitamin D (calciferol) is unique among vitamins in that it can be produced in the body by exposure of the skin to sunlight (UVB light). Vitamin D deficiency is therefore more common during the winter months when there is less sunlight. Another special feature of vitamin D is that dietary intake accounts for only a relatively small proportion of the vitamin D supply. This is because vitamin D occurs naturally in only a few foods, such as oily fish and cod liver oil. In addition, conditions such as celiac disease and Crohn’s disease, in which the absorption of nutrients in the intestines is impaired (malabsorption), can also lead to vitamin D deficiency.
tures, ultimately contributing to osteoporosis. Other symptoms of osteoporosis can include back pain, loss of height, and a stooped posture. To successfully control and prevent osteoporosis, it is therefore necessary to provide essential cellular nutrients early and continuously. A balanced diet rich in calcium, magnesium, vitamin C, vitamin D and other important micronutrients, as well as micronutrient supplements, can help to slow the loss of bone density.
OSTEOMALACIA AND RICKETS (BONE SOFTENING)
Osteomalacia and rickets are bone diseases caused by deficiencies in vitamin D, calcium, or phosphorus. These deficiencies lead to soft, weak bones that are prone to deformities and fractures. It’s important to note that both rickets and osteomalacia are preventable and treatable conditions.
Rickets occur in children whose growth plates are still open, leading to bone pain, deformities (such as bowed legs), muscle weakness, and delayed growth. Osteomalacia, on the other hand, is a disorder of bone metabolism in which minerals are excessively released from the bones, resulting in softening of the bone.
The main cause of vitamin D deficiency, which underlies both rickets and osteomalacia, is insufficient exposure of the skin to sunlight (UVB rays), inadequate dietary intake, or impaired vitamin D absorption from the gut. Less commonly, these issues can stem from disorders in vitamin D metabolism in the liver or kidneys, which impair vitamin D utilization and, consequently, affect bone mineralization. Over time, all these factors contribute to reduced bone strength and stability.
BONE INJURIES AND FRACTURES
Fractures can occur at any age. Children are particularly at risk owing to their physical activity and the fact that their bones are still growing. Adults over the age of 60 also face an increased risk of fractures, as falls caused by loss of balance or vision become more common with age. Additionally, as already noted, bones become less dense and more fragile as we grow older.
Wrist and forearm fractures are common because we instinctively try to protect our head by supporting ourselves when we fall. Fractures near the hip joint, such as the femoral neck and pelvis, are also common in older people. These are typical sites for fractures caused by osteoporosis.
Not every bone injury requires treatment. Small, uncomplicated fractures —such as hairline fractures or very minor breaks—typically heal on their own. However, specific treatment is often necessary, especially if the bone fragments are displaced or surrounding tissue has been damaged. In such
complex fractures, the bone fragments are surgically repositioned using plates, screws, or nails. If surgery is not needed, the affected bone is immobilized with a cast or splint.
In the best-case scenario, the bone remains fully intact after regrowth and is able to support weight again. This is thanks to specialized bone cells that significantly increase their activity when a fracture occurs. In an effort to repair the affected bone, osteoclasts break down excess transitional tissue (callus) to clear the area for osteoblasts to build new bone tissue and restore the original shape. Fractures also increase the need for certain nutrients that are needed for cellular repair and to speed up the healing of broken bones.
How long it takes for the bone to heal depends on the severity of the injury, the area affected, and the supply of nutrients to the bone.
MICRONUTRIENTS FOR HEALTHY BONES
Micronutrients are essential for the many functions of our body cells, including the development and maintenance of bone tissue. One of the most important roles of micronutrients in bone metabolism is the formation of a well-structured bone matrix (collagen) and the mineralization of bone.
CALCIUM AND VITAMIN D FOR BONE MINERALIZATION
An optimal supply of calcium and vitamin D is particularly important for bone mineralization through the deposition of bone minerals:
• Calcium is the primary structural element that contributes to the formation of robust and dense bones. It is present in over 99 percent of the body in the form of calcium-phosphate complexes, thereby providing strength and structural integrity to the skeleton. Additionally, calcium functions as a metabolic reservoir to maintain intra- and extracellular calcium pools.
• V itamin D helps the body to absorb and utilize calcium from food.
ESSENTIAL NUTRIENTS FOR COLLAGEN SYNTHESIS
Certain cellular nutrients must be available for collagen synthesis so that the connective tissue foundation of the bone can be optimally formed:
• Vitamin C is essential for collagen production and the maintenance of its structure, Dairy products provide the calcium you need for strong bones, while eggs offer a rich mix of essential nutrients.
• lysine and proline are important building blocks of connective tissue and play a central role in the formation and structure of collagen fibers,
• arginine supports collagen formation,
• copper and vitamin B6 help to crosslink collagen fibers, which is important for their strength and stability.
OTHER MICRONUTRIENTS RELEVANT TO BONE HEALTH
There are also other micronutrients that optimize bone metabolism and keep bones strong and stable:
• Vitamin A regulates and influences bone growth,
• folic acid (vitamin B9) promotes the formation of new cells in the bone marrow and, together with vitamin B6, supports the breakdown of the cell toxin homocysteine, which is associated with an increased risk of osteoporosis,
• vitamin E protects against free radicals, which can damage bone cells,
• vitamin K2 ensures that calcium is stored in the bones,
• magnesium supports calcium absorption and ensures bone strength,
• boron stabilizes the bones and plays a key role in calcium and magnesium metabolism,
• zinc promotes the formation of bone tissue and is essential for the regeneration and growth of bones,
• potassium reduces the excretion of calcium via the urine.
According to Cellular Medicine, the effectiveness of micronutrients lies in their synergy, i.e., the positive interaction of individual components. The main advantage of micronutrient synergy is that the body can utilize the cellular nutrients more efficiently, maximizing their positive effects on various organ functions. Therefore, it is important to use micronutrients in well-selected combinations that have been tested for efficacy.
OPTIMAL BONE HEALTH THROUGH MICRONUTRIENT SYNERGIES
Scientists at the Dr. Rath Research Institute have investigated the effect of three specific micronutrient synergies on certain metabolic processes in hu -
man bone cells. The micronutrient combinations used in the study consisted of multi-nutrients (Formula A), minerals (B), and essential collagen building nutrients (C)—all described in the previous chapter.
The study evaluated the effects of these micronutrient formulations on key biomarkers of cellular processes involved in bone metabolism. These biomarkers included the enzyme alkaline phosphatase (ALP), the protein osteocalcin produced by osteoblasts, and the protein sclerostin produced by osteocytes. The key findings of this study are summarized in Fig. 1 and 2.
ALP is produced by osteoblasts in the early stages of bone mineralization and is a crucial indicator of bone metabo -
lism and activity. Scientists at the Dr. Rath Research Institute found that bone cells treated with specific micronutrients had higher ALP levels than control cells not exposed to cellular nutrients. Both test formulas increased ALP, with the highest increase of 43% in cells exposed to the mineral-rich formula (B), indicating the importance of these micronutrients in bone growth.
Osteocalcin is a protein that serves as a marker of new bone formation and indicates the activity of osteoblasts in building bone tissue. With age, the concentration of osteocalcin in bone naturally declines, leading to a decrease in bone density. The study showed that specific micronutrient combinations can improve the bone mineralization process. In the presence of Formulas
1. ALP activity, sclerostin and osteocalcin content in bone cells treated with multi-nutrient formula A and a mineral formula B. The combination of these formulas (A + B) further increased osteocalcin, indicating improved mineralization.
Fig.
Sclerostin (II)
ALP (I)
Osteocalcin (III)
A and B applied separately, the osteoblasts produced more osteocalcin, reflecting their stimulating effect on bone mineralization. However, an even greater increase in osteocalcin (by 76% compared to the control) was observed when A and B were applied together, suggesting their synergistic interactions.
Sclerostin inhibits the activity of osteoblasts and reduces their ability to form new bone tissue. Elevated levels of sclerostin may indicate impaired bone formation, contributing to bone loss, fractures and various bone diseases. The study demonstrated that specific micronutrient compositions can reduce sclerostin levels. As shown in Fig. 1, both formulas A and B could
significantly reduce sclerostin, with the multi-nutrient formula (A) being particularly effective. The study also showed the importance of vitamin C, lysine and proline in collagen formation. As shown in Fig. 2, Formula C containing these compounds was effective in improving bone formation processes by stimulating ALP activity and osteocalcin, and inhibiting bone resorption processes by decreasing sclerostin.
HEALING BONE FRACTURES WITH MICRONUTRIENTS
A clinical study involving 131 patients with leg fractures evaluated the effect of a specific micronutrient combination on bone healing. The
Fig. 2. ALP activity, sclerostin and osteocalcin content in bone cells treated with Formula C containing vitamin C, proline, lysine.
Sclerostin (II) ALP (I)
Osteocalcin (III)
composition used in the study was specifically designed to target collagen-forming properties and included vitamin C, lysine, proline, and vitamin B6. Study participants were between the ages of 15 and 75 and received either the micronutrient composition or a placebo.
The results of the study showed that the fractures healed significantly faster in those taking the micronutrient combination than in those in the placebo group. On average, the placebo group took three weeks longer to heal than the micronutrient group. It was also striking that about a quarter of the patients in the micronutrient group had completely healed fractures after ten weeks, compared with 14 percent in the placebo group. This shows that healthy collagen is essential for bone health and fracture healing.
MICRONUTRIENT SYNERGIES FROM THE DR. RATH RESEARCH INSTITUTE—NATURALLY PATENTED
The Dr. Rath Research Institute sets global standards by consistently patenting its developments in the field of micronutrients. This ensures that the Institute’s formulations have a solid scientific basis. In order for a patent to be granted, extensive studies are required to prove both the specific composition of the micronutrients and their biological efficacy.
This also applies to the micronutrient combination for supporting bone health, which is registered under the patent number US 11,452,710 B1. The scientific studies that led to the granting of the patent prove that the synergy of vitamins C, A , E , D3, K2 , and folate, the minerals calcium, magnesium, boron, zinc, potassium, and copper, as
US Patent No. US 11,452,710 B1
Micronutrient and Plant Extract
Composition and Method of Improving Bone Health
Inventors: Aleksandra Niedzwiecki, Matthias W Rath, Lei Shi, Anna Goc
Publishing date: Sep. 27, 2022
Significant healing seen at 10 weeks with micronutrients
Broken bone
well as bioactive plant substances from horsetail and nettle extract , significantly support bone mineralization and actively promotes bone formation.
With its developments, the Dr. Rath Research Institute pursues a clear goal: natural and effective prevention of nu -
merous health problems that is scientifically proven and easy for everyone to implement. The micronutrient combination for healthy bones is the result of this vision — scientifically developed, tested and patented for strong, resilient bones that carry us safely through everyday life.
REFERENCES
L. Shi et al. Different multi-nutrient formulations support calcification process in human bone cells. (2019). JCM&NH. https://jcmnh.org/2019/07/25/differentmulti-nutrient-formulations-supportcalcification-process-in-human-bone-cells
International Osteoporosis Foundation. (10. Oktober 2019). About Osteoporosis: Epidemiology. https://www.osteoporosis.foundation/ health-professionals/about-osteoporosis/ epidemiology
J. Jamdar et al. Reduction in tibial shaft fracture healing time with essential nutrient supplementation containing ascorbic acid, lysine, and proline. J Altern Complement Med. 2004; 10(6): 915-916. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15729747/
J.C. Souberbielle et al. The use in clinical practice of parathyroid hormone normative values established in vitamin D-sufficient subjects. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2003 Aug;88(8):3501-4.
P. Lips. Vitamin D deficiency and secondary hyperparathyroidism in the elderly: consequences for bone loss and fractures and therapeutic implications. Endocr Rev. 2001 Aug;22(4):477-501.
R. Freaney, Y. McBrinn, M.J. McKenna. Secondary hyperparathyroidism in elderly people: combined effect of renal insufficiency and vitamin D deficiency. Am J Clin Nutr. 1993 Aug;58(2):187-91.
TIPS FOR MAINTAINING HEALTHY BONES
Bone fractures are not only painful but can also significantly reduce our mobility and quality of life. People with osteoporosis are particularly at risk because even small falls can lead to fractures. But there is a lot you can do to protect your bones in the long term and prevent damage:
STAY PHYSICALLY ACTIVE
Regular exercise strengthens bones by activating bone cells and stimulating the formation of new bone tissue. Activities such as jogging, dancing, or hiking are recommended because they also strengthen muscles, as well as improving balance and coordination, so reducing the risk of falls and injuries.
SPEND ENOUGH TIME OUTDOORS
Sunlight stimulates the production of vitamin D, which is essential for calcium absorption and bone health. Daily walks outdoors stimulate the body’s production of this ‘sunshine hormone’. Keep your face, hands and, if possible, part of your arms or legs uncovered.
EAT A HEALTHY DIET
A balanced diet with enough calcium, vitamin D, magnesium, vitamin C, lysine, and other important micronutrients is essential for strong bones. Foods such as dairy produce and whole grains, green leafy vegetables, nuts, and seeds should be a regular part of your diet.
AVOID ALCOHOL AND CIGARETTES
Alcohol and nicotine are cellular toxins that deprive the body of valuable nutrients. This damages our bones by reducing their density and increasing the risk of osteoporosis and bone fractures. You should reduce your alcohol intake and exposure to cigarette smoke or, ideally, quit using these stimulants altogether.
TAKE FOOD SUPPLEMENTS REGULARLY
Dietary supplements are the best and most effective way to address micronutrient deficiencies. The information in this brochure is a reliable guide to which cellular nutrients you should take daily. If you already have a bone disease, discuss this information with your doctor.
ELIMINATE TRIPPING HAZARDS
Falls, which can result in serious bone injuries, are often caused by tripping hazards in the apartment or house. These include creases on the carpet, loose cables, dark stairs, and slippery floors. Check your home for such tripping hazards and remove them.
WHAT IS CELLULAR MEDICINE?
The fundamental principle of Cellular Medicine relates to the smallest unit in the human body, the cell. Health and disease are determined at the level of the billions of cells which make up our bodies and not, as previously assumed, at the level of organs. Cells are the smallest and most important units in the body. They make up the organs and require a constant supply of specific bio-energetic nutrients to perform a huge number of biochemical reactions. Chronic deficiencies of one or more of these cellular nutrients leads to cellular malfunctioning and disease. Because of this, providing the cells with an optimum daily supply of vitamins and other essential nutrients is the key to the successful prevention of and defense against deficiency symptoms.
WHAT ARE CELLULAR NUTRIENTS?
The human body is composed of billions of cells which need a constant supply of biological catalysts for many different biochemical reactions. From the scientific standpoint of Cellular Medicine, these substances are considered together under the umbrella term ‘cellular nutrients’, a phrase which embraces vitamins, minerals, trace elements, certain amino acids, biologically active plant substances (phytobiologicals) and other micronutrients important for normal metabolism. When available in the right quantities and proportions, they make a major contribution to the healthy functioning of our cells and thus of our bodies.
PRINCIPLES OF CELLULAR MEDICINE
Chronic insufficiency of micronutrients
Healthy cell Impaired functioning cellCell pathology Organ disease
Chronic deficiency or imbalance of vitamins and other essential nutrients is the most frequent cause of chronic disease
THE DR. RATH RESEARCH INSTITUTE
The Dr. Rath Research Institute in Cellular Medicine is located in the Silicon Valley, in California. The Institute is staffed with experts in the fields of medicine, biochemistry, and nutrition. Here, worldclass molecular biology, biochemistry scientists conduct innovative research utilizing the principle of nutrient synergy, to investigate the role of micronutrients in preventing and treating various aspects of human health and diseases. Researchers at the Dr. Rath Research Institute are pursuing breakthrough research based on Dr. Rath’s discoveries in heart disease, cancer, infectious diseases, and other aspects important in human health. Their scientific work has been widely recognized and published in numerous scientific journals and other media around the world.
www.drrathresearch.org
RESEARCHERS
Dr. Aleksandra Niedzwiecki
Currently the Director of Research at the Dr. Rath Research Institute, Dr. Niedzwiecki is a leading biomedical researcher in the development of nutrient synergy approaches in various aspects of health and disease. Her work in the areas of cardiovascular health, cancer and infections has won her recognition for her research into the biochemical link between disease and nutrients.
Lei Shi, MSc
Lei Shi completed her Bachelors degree in Biotechnology in China and received her Masters from the University of Nevada, Reno. She assisted in research on anti-cancer effects of fungal natural products and participated in a research project on poisonous plants at the USDA ARS Poisonous Plant Research Laboratory in Utah. At the Dr. Rath Research Institute Lei works on transgenic research projects, cardiovascular and Alzheimer’s disease research and assists in various scientific experiments.
Dr. Matthias Rath
Dr. Rath is a world-renowned physician and scientist known for his pioneering research in natural and cellular health. He is the founder of the scientific concept of Cellular Medicine –the systematic introduction into clinical medicine of the biochemical knowledge of the role of micronutrients as biocatalysts in a multitude of metabolic reactions at the cellular level.
Disclaimer
This booklet is not intended as a substitute for the medical advice of a physician. The reader should regularly consult a physician in matters relating to his or her health and particularly in respect to any symptoms that may require diagnosis or medical attention.
FURTHER INFO MATERIAL
If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact us: 0031-457-111 222 or by email: info@dr-rath-foundation.org All publications are available online at: www.issuu.com/drrath
STOPPING VIRUSES NATURALLY
VIRUSES
This booklet explores the development of influenza infections and other viral diseases that occur more frequently during the colder seasons. It describes how a precisely formulated and scientifically validated combination of micronutrients can impact various aspects of infection, including boosting the immune system, increasing the body’s resistance, and targeting infectious pathogens.
LYME DISEASE
In Europe, well over 65,000 cases of Lyme disease are officially registered each year. However, the actual number of Lyme disease cases is possibly many times higher. This is because Lyme disease shows a variety of symptoms that are difficult to classify. They are described in detail in this brochure and natural health approaches are explained.
FIBRES FIBRES
Although dietary fibre is indigestible for the human body, it has a positive influence on health. By directly and indirectly influencing various metabolic processes, fibre can protect against the development of certain diseases or contribute to their treatment. Consequently, dietary fibre should always be taken into account as a component of a health-promoting, wholesome and balanced diet.
PROBIOTICS
This brochure shows the enormous importance of the gut microbiota and its influence on numerous processes in the organism. Without bacteria, humans would not be able to withstand the various influences from the environment, diet, pathogens, medications, etc.
