Health Guide

Strontium chloride

Strontium chloride is a naturally occurring salt of the trace mineral strontium. While often associated with medical treatments for osteoporosis (like the prescription drug Protelos), the over-the-counter supplement form is primarily used for its profound ability to support skeletal integrity. Strontium is chemically similar to calcium and is naturally found in trace amounts in our diet—mostly in whole grains, leafy greens, and seafood. For the everyday person, it acts as a 'building block' for bones, helping to maintain density and reduce the natural breakdown of bone tissue as we age.

Evidence BasedDietary Supplement

VERIFIED SOURCE

Bio-Activity Analysis

Bone Mineral Density Impact (Strontium vs Control)

SCIENTIFIC DATA VISUALIZATION

Y-Axis

Change (%)

Bone Health Marker →

Health Benefits & Sources

Why You Need It

Bone Density Support: Strontium promotes the activity of osteoblasts (bone-building cells) while inhibiting osteoclasts (cells that break down bone).
Collagen Matrix: It helps maintain the collagen protein matrix within bones, making them more resilient to fractures.
Trace Mineral Source: It provides a bioavailable form of strontium, an element found in the earth's crust and ocean.

Deep Dive

Strontium acts primarily on the skeletal system. Because it occupies a similar spot on the periodic table as calcium, the body treats it similarly. When you take strontium chloride, the mineral is absorbed and incorporated into the bone matrix.

Unlike calcium, however, strontium does not participate in blood clotting or nerve transmission. Its sole superpower is skeletal. Research suggests that strontium ranelate (a prescription drug) significantly reduces the risk of vertebral and non-vertebral fractures. While strontium chloride (the supplement form) is less potent, it offers a safe way to boost strontium intake for general bone maintenance.

Natural Food Sources

Unlike synthetic vitamins, Strontium is an element found naturally in the soil and ocean. Consequently, the most reliable dietary sources are plant foods grown in mineral-rich soil and seafood.

Top Dietary Sources:

Food	Amount	% DV (Approx)
Whole Grains (Wheat bran, oats)	Moderate	10-15%
Leafy Greens (Spinach, Lettuce)	Moderate	5-10%
Seafood (Lobster, Crab, Shrimp)	Moderate	5-10%
Nuts & Seeds	Low	<5%
Tap Water	Variable	Variable

Supplementation

You should consider supplementation if you are at risk for osteoporosis or looking to support bone density naturally.

Dosage: Typical over-the-counter strontium chloride supplements range from 200mg to 600mg of strontium per day.
Timing: It is best absorbed on an empty stomach, at least 2 hours apart from calcium supplements or dairy products, as calcium competes with strontium for absorption.

Top Food Sources

Whole Grains (Bran)

Concentrated in the bran/germ

Sea Vegetables (Kelp)

Absorbs from seawater

Shellfish

Crab and Lobster are good sources

Leafy Greens

Soil dependent

Tap Water

Traces in most municipal water

Frequently Asked Questions

Strontium Ranelate is a prescription drug for osteoporosis containing a specific organic acid to aid absorption. Strontium Chloride is an inorganic salt found in dietary supplements. While they both provide strontium, the prescription version has stricter efficacy standards.

No. They compete for absorption. You should take Strontium on an empty stomach (at bedtime is common) and take your Calcium supplement or dairy products at least 2 hours earlier or later.

Yes. Because strontium is denser than calcium, it can sometimes artificially elevate the results of a DEXA bone density scan. Always tell your radiologist if you are taking strontium supplements.

Yes, but in very tiny amounts. It is considered a trace mineral, with about 99% of it stored in the bones and teeth.

Safety & Side Effects

Safety & Interactions

Who should avoid it?

Pregnancy & Breastfeeding: There is insufficient data to confirm safety; avoid use.
Kidney Impairment: Do not use if you have severe kidney disease.
Children: Strontium accumulates in growing bones; do not give to children or adolescents.

Potential Side Effects:

Mild: Nausea, diarrhea, or headaches (usually temporary).
Severe (Rare): Memory impairment, seizures, or blood clots (associated with high-dose prescription strontium, but caution is advised).

Critical Interaction: Do not take strontium within 2 hours of taking calcium or milk. They fight for absorption.

Scientific References

[1]Reginster, J. Y., et al. (2005). 'Strontium ranelate reduces the risk of nonvertebral fractures in postmenopausal women with osteoporosis.' *New England Journal of Medicine*.
[2]Marie, P. J. (2006). 'Strontium ranelate: a dual mode of action for bone quality.' *Osteoporosis International*.
[3]WHO Monographs on Selected Medicinal Plants: Strontium.