Although estrogen replacement drugs are often given to anorexic women to prevent bone loss and lower their risk of fracture, the results of a new study suggest that the hormone does not work and has no effect on bone density.
Researchers measured bone density at several skeletal locations in 130 anorexic women in their mid 20s.
92% had substantial bone loss in at least one site
"Bone mineral density did not differ by history of estrogen use at any site," the study authors report.
While estrogen use was not related to bone density, several other factors were:
Weight Age at first period Amount of time that had lapsed since women had their last menstrual period were factors associated with bone density In addition to the estrogen, calcium and vitamin D supplements did not improve bone density either.
Annals of Internal Medicine November 21, 2000; 133: 790-794
Also, women with anorexia generally have profoundly impaired adrenals with a secondary decrease in anabolic hormones such as DHEA and testosterone which are potent bone builders in the correct concentrations.
In addition to not increasing bone density, estrogens have been shown to deplete the body of the following essential nutrients:
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