<<Disclaimer: Verify this information before applying it to your situation.>> A Trip to an Endocrinologist: This is my personal adventure due to a bone-density test showing moderate osteoporosis in my left hip and lower back. It is not intended for anyone to diagnose themselves. Question: To take Fosamax, HRT therapy (woman only), calcium supplements or exercise? First, I was surprised that he knew a lot about celiac disease after teasing me about how I liked my pizza. Although my calcium level was not bad, he stated a deficiency in Vitamin D was noted. He mentioned that perhaps by going on the diet and not being lactose intolerant anymore, I picked up my calcium count by eating cheese, ice cream, etc. People don't realize that when you go on the diet, you are now absorbing vitamins you never could before. However, most people only get sunlight (Vitamin D) in the spring and summer months, hardly in the winter. Vitamin D helps the genitourinary system absorb calcium. Also, if you are experiencing bone loss then Vitamin D is most likly the deficient vitamin. He said to continue my 2 tablets of Citracal (GF) each day along with a prescription for Vitamin D. (more than the usual dose in vitamin supplements and only taken once a week). I asked him about Fosamax since my GI called a pharmacy to discuss the GF status of this. (yes, it is GF) The endo suggested Prempro (GF) estrogen/progesterone therapy for 6 months and the Vitamin D prescription. After 3 months blood tests will be taken and again at 6 months to monitor the effects. Depending on the results of the blood tests, the HRT therapy could be stopped. In one year, another bone density test would be taken to show if there was any big change. He claimed Fosamax would be considered after everything else is used due to gastrointestinal problems that many people have taking it. After the question and answer session, I was given a physical which consisted of checking all areas that would contain your glands (i.e. thyroid, underarms, pelvic area). When I left his office, I felt comfortable that my GI sent me to a very knowledgeable doctor. Should anyone have any other questions, please feel free to contact me personally. Cindy in NJ