<<Disclaimer: Verify this information before applying it to your situation.>>

A top celiac expert advises newly-diagnosed celiac patients not to take
Fosamax or Actonel:

"Bone density is frequently reduced in patients with celiac disease and
results in increased fracture risk. Bone density should be determined at
the wrist, spine and hip. If there are reduced levels of parathyroid
hormone, calcium and vitamin D should be measured. Vitamin D needs to be
administered if levels are low.

"Treatment of reduced bone density in celiac disease consists of calcium
supplements, with or without vitamin D, together with a gluten free diet.
On this regime bone density will usually increase. Bone anti-resorption
agents (for example Fosamax) have not been studied in patients with celiac
disease. They potentially can cause a fall in serum calcium if administered
when a patient has active celiac disease and should be reserved for
patients who still have reduced bone density after an adequate period on
calcium and a gluten-free diet."

Dr. Peter R.H. Green's Columbia Celiac Center's website:
http://www.celiacdiseasecenter.columbia.edu/C_Doctors/C01-HOME.htm

The site also has evidence-based medical and diet advice, which wise people
follow rather than the often uninformed postings on this news group.

Carl Shoolman

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