Though the doctor prescribed Fosamax. I wasn't happy about possible side-effects, and decided not to take the Fosamax but to improve my diet and exercise regimen.

The doctor reluctantly agreed, but since he was concerned about precipitous bone loss at my age, insisted on repeating the BMD just 6 months later.

Meanwhile I improved my diet by increasing my fruit and vegetable intake, and decreasing my intake of meat and refined carbohydrates to restore alkalinity in the body (see Susan E. Brown: The Acid Alkaline Food Guide).

I followed the strength training plan in Miriam Nelson's Strong Women Stay Young" 3 days per week. Alternate days (3 days/week) I did Kathy Smith's DVD "Pilates For Abs," and added 5 minutes of back strengthening exercises from Miriam Nelson's "Strong Women Strong Backs." The only supplement I have taken is Citracal - 2 caplets per day (630mg + 500 IU vitamin D).

In just 6 months, according to the report, my T score has improved by 5% in the lumbar spine. No change in the hip. I'm feeling very encouraged, and believe that exercise and healthy diet works, so hope this may serve to encourage others to keep at it.

I'm planning to take up Tai Chi next to work on balance. Lumbar spine: 05/09: -2.4 11/09: -2.1 Hip: 05/09: -1.6 11/09: -1.6 Kate, thank you for all the information you provide. It was a real help to me during the anxious first few weeks as I was trying to learn everything I could as quickly as I could. I find your monthly newsletter a timely reminder and encouragement, and hope you keep it coming.

Andrea Mallett, Singapore